Skyla IUD vs Mirena IUD

I absolutely loved my Mirena for the first 2.5 years... up until my body rejected it and I began to pass the IUD through my cervix. I believe this happened because of rough sex, which Mirena and doctors say can't happen. Well, it happened, and it caused the worst cramping I've experienced, truly debilitating me until I got it removed. I then tried a new IUD and the cramps, although not as bad, returned, accompanied by terrible mood swings and emotional vulnerability. I was told my body wasn't right for an IUD, which is odd because it worked for 2.5 years! I think everyone should still try the IUD, as it was the best birth control I still have ever used... before I couldn't use it anymore.

Easy to use especially for women that are in perimenopause because it can be part of Menopausal hormone therapy. I have had several through my life and recommend- very effective, easy and periods favorable!

I first got my Mirena IUD when I was 13-14 for hormonal-induced migraines. The insertion was very painful, but the cramping did not last too long after insertion. I had mild spotting for a few months, then my period stopped completely for 5 years. Last year, my period came back and has been irregular since. Overall, my period has been much lighter and my PMS symptoms and menstruation symptoms have been minimal. I also have noticed more stability in my mood and have had decreased migraines since starting my IUD.

The Mirena was great for stopping periods- I was 18 when I had it inserted and loved not having a period. I did not know of any of the side effects and when I discussed with my doctor, she said that these were not symptoms brought about by the IUD (so she put me on medication to combat the symptoms I was experiencing). I decided to remove the IUD last month- my hair has stopped falling out in clumps, I’ve lost weight and am never bloated, I am never constipated, my sex drive and sexual function are back to normal, my skin has cleared up, my body hair is not growing in as thick, and I have not gotten any yeast infections, vaginal irritation, abnormal discharge or smell. The worst part about this IUD was that it hurt to get it inserted and removed and my pain and anxieties were not taken seriously by medical professionals- if this birth control is right for somebody, make sure you go to a doctor who understands what this birth control method is, what it can do (good and bad- it can work super well for some people), who might not be a great candidate for this (because some people just aren’t), and especially how to help their patients manage discomfort, pain and anxiety during the insertion and removal processes.

I was very scared to get my IUD, but ultimately it was a great decision. It is easy because I don't have to remember to take a pill daily and you can always check that it is still in place. My symptoms have been minor and do not cause any disruptions to my daily life. I would recommend this form of birth control, but I would ask about pain management with your doctor before the insertion.

The mirena has been great! I stopped using the pill because it affected my mood and body and since using the mirena IUD I felt myself again.

I have had a very positive experience with the Mirena IUD. I started it about 6-8 months after the birth of my second child because I do not want more children. I’ve experienced basically no side effects. It was supposed to be 5-7 years when I got it, but it’s since been extended to 10 years so I have not yet had it changed out.

Getting the IUD was painful, but I am happy that I got it because I don’t have to worry about missing any days (like on the pill) and it hasn’t affected my mood or body that dramatically.

After expelling two Paragards, my doctor recommended Mirena. My body took to it much better overall, and I ended up keeping it for 6 years. I wish I knew my sex drive would decrease, I would get occasional horrible cramps from ovarian cysts, and it would dry me up leaving me susceptible to more yeast infections than usual. I loved the peace of mind and no periods during a time when I was growing my career. I don't think I would use it again, now that I'm married and a baby wouldn't be such a big deal.

Very pleased that I haven’t had, or at least noticed, any side effects and don’t have to think about contraception anymore. Only downside would be that it hurt a bit to get it inserted. It was a few years ago now, but if memory serves, I got a shot of some sort of anesthetic but I still felt what felt like one big cramp when they put it in. I don’t remember much discomfort by the time I left the clinic. I was advised to take an Advil later that day / night to make sure I could sleep comfortably, and I think that kept any additional pain at bay. I’d heard from one friend that it completely stopped her period. In my case, I still get a very light (liners, no tampons or even pads) period every month. Haven’t had it taken out/switched yet so can’t speak to how that will go!