Levonorgestrel for Birth Control User Reviews (Page 5)

• T G...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• November 5, 2020

"Had my Kyleena inserted a year and 2 months ago. Was it painful to insert? Honestly, yes. I had bad cramps for 48 hours after, but my doctor was great and filled a very small T3 prescription for me, which was great! I had on-and-off spotting for the first 3 months and then no period for 10 months. I just had my period and no cramps at all. I got Kyleena because I used to have 9-day, heavy bleeding periods, so this has been amazing for me. 10/10 worth the pain during the insertion and adjustment period. I did have 2 months of pretty bad hormonal acne around my jaw, which was new for me, but I was also having a rough time then (lol thanks COVID). Overall, I highly recommend it and have had zero pregnancy scares even though my partner and I have unprotected sex every time."

• Gee...
• January 12, 2020

"The implantation was super fast and easy. Just a little pinch, mild cramping. Very effective, easy, worry-free method of protection! My menstrual cycles were barely a cycle, and I was so happy to feel the freedom of no heavy bleeding or clotting! Negatives, unfortunately, A LOT of bloating and weight gain occurred for me especially in my 4th year. I noticed a change gradually over the years, then recently it was super rapid. Yesterday, I had the Mirena removed. Again just a little pinch, and mild cramping. Ahhhhhh my body was saying thankful because immediately I felt better! Today, I am down 9 pounds! YES, that’s the honest truth, 9 pounds gone!!!!! :) I’m so thankful I listened to my body, noticed the changes, and made the decision to remove it! I feel so much better! I encourage all to research before making a decision. Most importantly, listen to your body! If you don’t feel right, something's off, go see your Dr! Best wishes to all for a happy, healthy body! :)"

• Mot...
• August 4, 2008

"I had Mirena inserted almost 4 months ago. I experienced heavy bleeding about 2 weeks after I got it and every day after that up until the 2nd month. It started off heavy and gradually lightened up but the heavy bleeding lasted almost a month, and it was every day. The doctor that inserted it said this was normal and the further from the insertion date I got it, it would get better. I've found this to be true. I am happy with Mirena."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 21, 2020

"I got the Liletta IUD 3 months ago, and at first, it was awful. Cramps were awful upon insertion and almost unbearable for about a month afterward. I never bled at all, but the cramps were constant. Since then, I couldn't have been happier. I have lost weight (not necessarily related, but didn't gain any weight). I have seen a dramatic increase in sex drive. I have been on different birth control pills in the past that made me very depressed, so I was worried the IUD might have this effect. My mood has been great! The only negative thing is that I do have more acne now, but nothing that is too extreme and needs more than over-the-counter medicine. My period has also almost completely stopped, and it's only been 3 months, which is great!!"

• Ari...
• September 5, 2020

"The insertion process of Liletta was great, mild cramping. Spotting at first for about 4-5 days after. I am now 7 months in and I spot for 3 weeks at a time. I’m good for 2 weeks then spot for 3 more weeks. My sex drive is incredibly high, and it’s putting a strain on my sex life. This is my first time getting on birth control. I was never a heavy bleeder, just a fertile mertile. Got pregnant easy. Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful I am not pregnant, but I love sex and I am bummed with all this spotting."

• Jea...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• October 31, 2013

"This is Jean's husband. Jean had this device inserted many years ago. She was NEVER informed of its risks or how long until it should be removed. She has had severe cramps for years. We (I) have informed every doctor and emergency room she has gone to about the device. They all ignored the info. Yesterday she was taken to the hospital. She had severe chest pains. All cardio tests came back negative. Today they transferred her to ICU because her temperature kept spiking. They did blood work and found out she has a massive infection running through her body. She is being bagged and they are flushing her system to try and get rid of the infection. An OB-GYN came in and tried to find the 'string' to remove this contraption. I will know more soon."

• Anonymous
• March 24, 2008

"I have had the Mirena for about 6 months now. Aside from the abhorrent cramping that happened for about 6 hours after it was put in, I have no periods, no cramping, no bloating, no mood swings... nothing! I love it."

• ban...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 16, 2019

"DO NOT GET THIS. I'M TELLING YOU THIS NOW! Many people, like myself, have read the reviews and thought, oh no, that won’t be me. It’ll be fine. I'M DIFFERENT. Well - no, I’m not. I wouldn’t recommend this to anyone. Constantly bleeding, I can’t even HAVE sex, constant cramping and discomfort. Nausea. Dizziness. And the worst of all is the HORMONES. All I do is cry. Getting it out asap."

• Ste...
• August 25, 2020

"I’ve had constant side effects since I first went on it. The first 6 months I was going to tough it out as doctors told me it would go away, but it did not. I had insane cramping (like contractions) on the daily or at random, causing me to constantly need to bring Advil everywhere I go. I had extreme fatigue (naturally I’m very energetic), I had a hard time working out as I would get really sore quick/not have the energy. I would get dizzy spells, headaches/migraines, sweats as well, plus insane PMS that was uncontrollable and hard to predict. What was the most striking was how much weight I gained that I couldn’t lose when I was on a strict diet + working out daily, which was extremely discouraging. This has been reoccurring for the time I’ve been on it. Also, I had uncomfortable intercourse, I would either bleed or get cramping after. I’ve been on the pill, and this experience was 50 times worse. You just don't know who is going to suit the IUD, 3/4 of my friends who have it had a horrible experience."

• nax...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 24, 2020

"Day 1 of Kyleena, had it inserted yesterday. Just wanted to share my insertion experience since some of these reviews are terrifying. I'm not going to sugarcoat it - insertion was not fun. I experienced a minor cramp when they stabilized my cervix and three major cramps when they measured my uterus, pushed in the inserter, and released the IUD. To me, the pain felt very similar to menstrual cramps, but deeper and more internal. I did end up having a vasovagal response and passed out, but took time to restabilize and was able to walk out 15 minutes after insertion. I have never had children and took 800 mg of ibuprofen beforehand. So insertion was not a fun time. I'm not going to sugarcoat or avoid that. It hurts. However, was it the worst pain I've ever felt in my life? No. Did it feel like my body was being sawed in half? No. If you're on the fence about it, I recommend trying it. It's not an absolute horror show for everybody. You can do it! I believe in you!"

• luc...
• January 23, 2016

"This is my experience so far for anyone considering a Mirena coil. I ummed and erred for months because of negative reviews, and my concerns were: 1) Would insertion hurt? The answer was no, I've had more painful cervical smears than the insertion of my Mirena coil. 2) Would it mess with my monthly cycle? Yes, it did. I bled constantly (in an array of colors!) for the obligatory three months that the GP told me to wait until my body got used to it. Then it was another month before I finally went back to my GP and said, 'Help.' She gave me a progesterone pill and told me to take it for a month. I only took it for one week! It did the job, I stopped bleeding and have gone on to a normal cycle. My periods only last a couple of days, do not hurt, and are light (just a smear of blood). I am 47, and compared to the heavy periods I was having before, it's a walk in the park. 3) Would I put on weight? No, not so far. I feel thinner around the middle. 4) Would I lose my sex drive? No, not so far. I was worried about this, however, I am happy to say that I have noticed no difference. Sex is just as welcome and enjoyable as before. 5) Would I get spots? No. The doctor told me that this was less likely because the hormonal content is tiny and localized to the womb. She was right. All in all, it was the right decision for me. I am very happy. I hope this post helps others."

• Aub...
• February 8, 2017

"I love my IUD for many reasons. A lot of these reviews are just based off of the initial side effects and insertion. While I admit it was mildly painful for the first 24 hours and the spotting lasted 1-2 months, I am now 3 years in, and couldn't be happier. My period is 95% lighter and lasts only an hour, I never get cramps anymore, and I am comforted by the fact that it is so reliable! No weight gain or mood changes, and my skin is still clear. Some people say these cause infertility, but that is not true. IUDs have undergone many, many clinical studies which show that is not the case! Don't let people on here scare you :) If you want the facts, go to a credible source."

• Jes...
• November 8, 2014

"I am 19 years old, no kids, and the insertion was painful. I love Mirena, probably the best decision I've made in my life. Super effective, no side effects, and I have actually lost weight. I think everyone should try Mirena birth control."

• Ave...
• July 3, 2019

"After reading the reviews, I was terrified. Then I got to thinking, most of the time people only volunteer to share their reviews if they have had a negative experience. I am on a weight loss journey, so I was scared I would gain weight on the Mirena, and also, even after having the Paragard two times, I was scared to have the Mirena inserted after reading reviews. Monday, I went in to get the Mirena, my doctor reassured me that less than 5% of women gain weight and that most of the time the weight gain is caused by other factors. The procedure itself was quick. There is a small amount of pressure as the IUD is inserted, but nothing to get worked up about. I have had the IUD in place for four days now and have had minimal spotting and minimal cramping. I will update this in about three months. If you are considering the Mirena, please do not make your choice based on reviews from others. As I stated before, people are quick to complain but rarely reach out to leave positive reviews."

• pre...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 3, 2020

"I had my Kyleena inserted in June 2019 (previously on oral birth control), and it did NOT feel good. The insertion was quite painful, definitely worse than any period cramps I've ever had, but I only had cramps for the rest of the afternoon and evening that day and have felt nothing since! My periods stopped completely (so far), and I'm not pregnant, so those are perks! My acne has flared terribly, though. I'm 28 and experiencing hormonal acne around my jaw area that I can't get rid of. I'm also pretty sure that I am having a hard time losing weight because of the IUD. I have been working out at least 5 days a week (training for a half-marathon) and eating very clean/healthy for two months consistently and have not managed to lose any weight. I'm now down a wormhole reading these forums and debating getting it removed!"

• Kim...
• December 29, 2014

"I'm on my second Mirena, and I think it's great! The first one I got took a long time to stop spotting. I was frustrated and wanted it out. My doctor's office suggested waiting and giving it a chance. I'm really happy I listened! Each month, it got better. Those beginning days are so far behind me now. I haven't had any problems at all. Definitely worth it!"

• Ala...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• January 13, 2020

"3rd check-in - 3.5 years with Kyleena! Yes, there have been side effects - specifically hormonal acne and some intense cramping once every 2-3 months, but I honestly am very happy with my decision. I will keep the Kyleena in until the 5-year mark. Everyone is different, but after bad aura migraines on the pill, awful systemic effects with the Nexplanon matchstick arm implant, I am relieved I found something that worked. Something to know: my OBGYN said today that spotting may become a little irregular as you round out your last year of the IUD. I can attest to this. Had virtually no bleeding of any type the first 2-3 years with this, now I spot every month or so. Still nothing bad. Hope this helps!"

• Anonymous
• October 5, 2010

"I have had the Mirena in for almost a year! I was so tired of birth control pills, and my sister had it put in and loved it! So I thought this was finally my answer to contraception. Well... over the last 10 months, I have had acne (on my back, arms, face, everywhere), and I have never been one to get acne. I have had cramping off and on, weight gain, and my stomach has been bloated up like I am pregnant. Also, I have experienced anxiety and loss of energy. All I want to do is lay around. I am getting it taken out ASAP."

• Anonymous
• April 29, 2009

"I've seen so many negative reviews of Mirena online that I just wanted to share my positive experience. For the past 10 years of my life, I have had horrifying periods. I have stage 4 endometriosis and a blood clotting disorder that would leave me in bed for days in excruciating pain every month. Since getting Mirena, my life has changed incredibly. I do have some of the side effects such as mood swings, slight memory loss, and acne, but my period now lasts one day and barely hurts. I have had it for 3 months, and I will gladly deal with the side effects to continue benefiting from a life with significantly reduced pain. It's not perfect, but after years of experimental treatments with no success, I can honestly say that this works."

• Ger...
• February 27, 2021

"I had the Kyleena for 2 years, this is my experience. I am a fit, healthy 25-year-old woman with a background in healthcare and no existing medical conditions or symptoms before Kyleena. The procedure for insertion I found to be okay. After, I had unbearable cramping for about 3 months and irregular bleeding. For the past 2 years, I have experienced increasing anxiety and depression. Uterine pain during sports such as rock climbing, skiing, kayaking, running, etc., that didn’t used to be painful. Additionally, I experienced decreased libido, pain during sex, recurrent yeast infections, vaginal dryness, nausea, headaches, back pain, insomnia, and my period stopped altogether. Two months ago, I got the Kyleena removed, I am aware of the placebo effect, etc. The removal was painless. The first 3 days after removal, I experienced extreme mood swings and heavy bleeding. But ever since then, I am happy to say I have had none of these side effects anymore and feel like myself."

• Bro...
• September 16, 2020

"It was the most pain I have ever felt when I got it put in. I just laid on the table after the insertion because I wasn't sure if I was going to pass out or not. I bled for 4 months straight after getting it put in. I feel like I woke up one day and gained 20 lbs. I am an active person and stay on a healthy diet, but it didn't matter because I still gained weight. I just feel bloated ALL THE TIME. I also got put on prescription acne medicine because I break out around my mouth constantly. My periods are super irregular. Sometimes I don't have a period for a couple of months and then I have a period twice a month. I will say that my periods are significantly lighter! The cramping is one of the main reasons I am going to get it taken out because they are AWFUL. I know that the IUD works for some people, it just did not work for me. The only good thing about it is not having to worry about getting pregnant, but I don't think it is worth it."

• Tri...
• February 16, 2020

"I got the IUD put in on 01/24/2020 and had little to no bleeding. I had a lot of cramping and pain. My OBGYN, whom placed it, checked it and ensured its placement. The whole time, I had uncomfortable pain and cramping to the point of tears. On 02/08/2020, my boyfriend finally took me to get checked at the urgent care. They stated that I had PID and BV due to getting my IUD. I was put on two antibiotics and further tests were put on order. After taking the meds for one week, I still had pain and cramping at the same level when I first got it. However, I had developed a fever and nausea. The urgent care doctor told me to go to the ER. At the ER, they could not find my IUD imaging. They told me to follow up with my OBGYN, and I still had PID and BV. I went to see my OBGYN the next day to find my IUD still inside me. When pulled out, it had bacterial growth on it. Right after being taken out, I felt better, and the cramping stopped. Please do not put this in your body!!!"

• Pos...
• February 16, 2020

"Had Skyla inserted 3 months ago. Side effects: first 2 months I had the annoying spotting every day. After that, I started to finally have clear days in a row. Had periods lighter but longer than usual (7-11-12d), but they should shorten now. Some PMS, nothing serious (breast soreness, mild to moderate cramps). Haven’t had any other side effects! Sex: My partner didn’t feel the strings, so I’m relieved. I didn’t have any pain during or after, no bleeding (I was scared that an “accident” might happen). Sex drive is just as high as usual. But I spotted the day after. Gym: I do CrossFit, and I was scared I might get cramps or it might move, but so far so good (just minor cramping after gym in the first month). Sometimes I spot over the next hours after gym due to increased blood flow. I’m trying to be patient with all this “shedding.” Bio: 32 yrs., NP, first form of BC. I read and watched all reviews until I drove myself crazy, but decided I will give it a try! Best luck, ladies!"

• Kia...
• January 25, 2021

"I suffer from endometriosis, ovarian cysts, heavy cramps/periods for about the past 8 years. The Skyla IUD the first year for me made me have brown discharge, BV, and yeast infections. The string felt like hard, sharp plastic, and it did, in fact, cut my partner during intercourse!! I had horrible acne and weight gain. The second year, as my body still adjusted, my periods did become lighter, the strings were still very much like a fishing line, and my ovarian cyst pain was bad. Third year, it started to no longer agree with my body, and all symptoms returned. I had to get it removed three months before its expiration date. I am so glad I had it removed. Here's another interesting thing, Skyla is a bright pink color when inserted, and when it comes out, mine was white... So now, have I absorbed harmful dyes into my body? Why make it a pretty color?... I think more research needs to be done on IUDs. More power to you and the women it works for. As for myself-NEVER AGAIN!"

• Nat...
• September 24, 2018

"I got Liletta put in almost a week ago, and so far have had a great experience! I am 20 years old and have never had kids. My period cramps are usually not too bad, I'll take a few ibuprofen, and they usually settle down, and my pain tolerance is pretty high. I knew going in that the insertion was going to hurt, however, it definitely was tolerable. In the days following, I haven't experienced any heavy cramping (thankfully). The rest of the day after getting it inserted just felt like how I would normally cramp the day before I get my period. I took it easy the 2-3 days after getting it inserted, however, I feel completely normal now. I have a brownish/yellowish clear discharge, but so far no heavy bleeding either. I wanted to leave a review just because the day before I got mine inserted, I read the reviews and psyched myself out because they are almost all bad! Everybody is different, so I'm glad I didn't chicken out because so far so good!"