I visited my GP a few weeks ago as since I had the Mirena inserted a few months ago, I have broken out in acne (I'm in my 40s!). The GP said the coil could not have caused the acne as it contains only small amounts of Progesterone that don't even enter your blood stream. I was confused as the instruction leaflet I was given with the Mirena listed acne (amongst other things) as a common side effect. I have also read lots of accounts from people who have had a similar experience. I dismissed it as the GP not knowing what she was talking about given that she is quite new.
Anyway, I went back yesterday for a review and saw a different, older and more experienced GP. He was also adamant that the coil could not cause such things and again went on about it not entering the blood stream. When I produced the leaflet he said that the list of side effects was standard wording for the side effects of progesterone and that they have to be included with any product containing that hormone. However, as the hormone doesn't enter the bloodstream with Mirena it actually doesn't apply but they have to say it anyway?!?! As much as I respect this GP normally, I'm struggling the believe this! I said it seemed rather a huge coincidence that the acne suddenly appeared with the Mirena and I knew I wasn't the only person who had had this problem. He conceded there may be a TINY chance it was responsible but he doubted it.
I also came off Cilest just before having the Mirena and I know coming off the pill can trigger acne. However, the last couple of times I did this I didn't break out so assumed I'd grown out of acne. Therefore, I'm still convinced the Mirena is at least partly responsible.
So, who's right - the GP or little old me??!!!