Thread: Anyone use the Mirena IUD?

I didn't think I'd be eligible for this thing since I'm only 20 years old and have never had a child.. However at my annual exam today when I was talking about a possible alternative to the pill with my doctor, she brought it up as a possibility for me.
I'm thinking about trying the 5 year one since I have no intention of having children anytime soon; besides, it's removable at any time, isn't it?

I'm continually doing research on the possible side effects of using this particular IUD, but honestly what's concerning me at this point is how little information I'm able to find about the actual procedure to insert the device.

From what information I've found, it's simply inserted manually with the aid of a speculum. I was actually really hoping that there was a little more to it, or some sort of alternative.. I'm actually really spooked by the whole speculum thing. I had a horrible experience with one when I was 17 and in for my first ever gynecological exam. I was only there at the time to get started on birth control, but they insisted upon giving me an exam despite the fact that I was not in any way sexually active and had not had so much as a finger up there before. Needless to say, it REALLY hurt and was traumatic besides.. I mean, I had no idea that when I walked into that room that I'd be entering some kind of medieval torture chamber.

My second exam (today) wasn't nearly as bad as that first one three years ago, but it was still intensely uncomfortable. Furthermore, I've been cramping horribly ever since the visit. (Not even close to my period, btw)

I'd like to hear from some of you that have had this device inserted; specifically any of you who have it and have not yet had children. Was the procedure particularly painful? How long did it take your body to adjust to the device, and how was the overall experience?

I agree DON"T DO IT!!! I just had mine removed today because of all the side effects you are way to young to have to put up with all of it!!! Stick with the pill or whatever you need to do but stay as far away from the IUD as possible!