Pros and Cons of IUD

Love it!

I have the Mirena for 2.5 years with no problems. I changed for the same reason, I couldn't remember to take the pills. My girlfriend recommended it to me, she has had 2 put in, one after each child. No problem concieving again after having it removed.

I chose the Mirena because it was 5 years of not worrying about BC. I turn 40 this year and we think we are done having kids but were not ready for the total commitment. We will re-evaluate at the end of 5 years when I need to have it removed. I go in for a check on Wed to see how it is doing.

The first year was different than the second. For the first 6 mo. I had a period but it was lighter than normal. I would also have spotting throughout the month occassionally. Now the only thing I notice is the moodiness and spotting for a few days in a row, enough for a pantyliner but nothing more. it is barely a blip on the radar. Occassionally I will spot after sex. DH says it pokes back at him sometimes but not a big problem.

I have the Mirena also and agree with the other "Mirena" responses about the very light (almost non-existant) period, which is great, except that it's also unpredictable. But - just a liner is all I really ever need. The other thing I've noticed is that my PMS symtoms like moodiness and bloating seem worse - cramping isn't any worse than before, but the one huge drawback that I've noticed is a lack of sex drive which seems to defeat the purpose of having the thing. That one side effect may not be common though, so all in all, it's prbably a good alternative for you. Good luck in your decision!

Hello there

I used an IUD for almost 10 years, it was great!
I never knew it was there. I never even checked it like your supposed to. The only problem was I'd have heavier periods but that was better than dealing with other birth controls or being pregnant when I wasn't ready.
GO FOR IT!
Good luck!

I also have the Mirena...and love it! No problems at all. A little cramping after putting it in but otherwise great. I've had mine for 8 months...and barely have periods at all anymore, just a bit of spotting...and regular pms stuff.
I've heard people say it hurt going in and was painful after, but my experience wasn't that bad. Yeah...it's uncomfortable...but nothing compared to labor and delivery!!
Good luck!