IUD- My Mirena Experience So Far

“Have you thought about contraception?” asked my gynaecologist at my six week check-up. “Well I was thinking of the IUD”, I replied. She handed me a brochure with Mirena written on the cover. “I thought you should get one too”, she concurred. I booked a date to fit the IUD and purchased it at our local pharmacy beforehand.

IUD is short for Intrauterine Device. It is small, T-shaped and made out of plastic or copper. The Mirena is classified as a hormonal IUD. It slowly releases a hormone called Progestin, which stops oestrogen from thickening the uterus lining. The Mirena lasts five years and an annual check-up is required.

I was so grateful to have Mr’s sister over when I was fitting the IUD. She was staying in Cape Town for the week as she had a few loose ends to tie up before moving back home to the Northern Cape. She was a great help with the children and around the house. The IUD insertion was quite uncomfortable and the discomfort lasted a few days. Some over the counter painkillers eased the pain.

Soon everything settled and I was able to resume everyday life. I had some further discomfort while exercising and was unable to do some of the moves, but a friend of mine had no such issues with her Mirena. Everybody is different and the reaction varies.

The first year was the toughest. I had frequent spotting and cramping. I felt like removing the IUD on multiple occasions, but I stuck with it. One year after inserting the IUD my periods shortened and eventually stopped completely and I didn’t experience any pain or discomfort anymore.

The Mirena and I are like good friends now after two and a half years. I love that I am able to remove it when I decide (within five years). It works for me, because I don’t trust myself to remember to take the pill every day. I didn’t have any side effects like weight gain or mood swings. My mood swings were probably worse before the IUD, to be honest.

 

An IUD is a suitable form of contraception for:

• Those who want birth control that lasts up to 5 years
• Those who want to have more children…someday
• Those who are happy with the size of your family
• Those who are not sure if you want more children
• Those who recently had a baby (6 weeks ago or more) and you’re looking for an option that fits your birth control needs. Mirena should not be placed earlier than 6 weeks after you give birth or as directed by your healthcare provider

For more information on the Mirena, feel free to visit their website.

A Mirena or IUD isn’t for everyone and you should discuss the best option for you with your gynaecologist or healthcare provider.

 

Do you have an IUD? How has your IUD experience been so far? What birth control options have you tried?

Let me know! I’d love to have a conversation with you!

 

Love and Blessings,