To consider a Mirena (even though I'm scared and kind of freaked out by it?)

[BagLadyy]

YABU = Don't get Mirena
YANBU = Do get it

Recently had my implant removed after 8 years of hormonal contraception.

Ovulation is always painful for me, and heavy periods, and the implant lessened both (although still had ovulation pain and periods but lighter.

I wanted a break from the hormones though, as I don't have a clue what my cycle would be like after so long. But got to say - I'm not enjoying natures way very much!

When I was having the implant removed (took a while!) the Doctor was singing the praises of the Mirena, and I have friends who do the same.

I'm not a squeamish person with my own body, happily use a menstrual cup, fully comfortable with my own anatomy etc etc. But something about "checking the strings" gives me the heeby jeebies.

And I've heard a few insertion horror stories (again, smear tests are fine for me, have given birth vaginally without painkiller)

just wanted to get a wider opinion if possible please?

(it's not really about contraception as DH is getting a vasectomy, more about me wanting the easiest life cycle wise)

I could always go back to the implant/pill also as other options.

I think it varies so much. Mine was a waking nightmare from start to finish - I literally had contractions every day, and then the trauma of the removal attempts before finally having to have it removed under GA which took 12 months from having it in.

Those who have a good experience seem to be thrilled with it, those who have a bad one seem to have a very bad time.

That said, I can’t tolerate any hormonal contraception any more so my endometriosis is running out of control, and there aren’t many low hormone options so I would be trying it now if I hadn’t had an awful time previously.

Had mine fitted over a week ago. On Depo previously. Swapped on Docs advice as peri and she could prescribe HRT immediately. Peri symptoms pretty bad IMO so desperate for relief.
Felt uncomfortable since fitting with pre period type cramps. I'm constantly aware of it and am nervous of it falling out while on the toilet.
Really hoping it settles smartish. Haven't yet been brave enough to feel for strings. Doc appointment to sort HRT still 3 weeks away. Feeling pretty miserable. Hoping for imminent improvement but jury's out currently.

Hated mine.

Periods carried on exactly as before. No sex drive whatsoever. Really lethargic and low moods to the point of feeling suicidal. Loads of my hair fell out and never grew back, it’s really thin now.

Never again. Endured mine for 18 months. All symptoms above stopped as soon as it was removed.

Awful! Insertion absolutely fine but it did nothing to stop heavy periods. Made them worse. It was a great contraceptive as I bled so much and felt so grotty that I wasn’t interested in sex! Had it removed. Bleeding has continued. Absolutely was not for me.