Mirena and Depression: What Users Say (Page 3)

• Emi...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• April 5, 2016

For Birth Control "25-year-old Caucasian female. I got it in October; healthy weight, normal blood pressure, not on any medication. I have a history of anxiety, but it was under control. Had cramping, painful breasts, and irregular bleeding for weeks, but I wanted to tough it out. However, around 4 months after insertion, I began to have severe anxiety. This spiraled into very high blood pressure, severe heart palpitations, chest tightness, severe panic attacks, severe depression, severe brain fog, joint pain, and headaches. I got referrals to a cardiologist, and Mirena was dismissed as the reason. After reading reviews, I demanded the doctor remove it. It has been 6 days, and I see a significant improvement in all of the above -- hopefully, the positive trend continues."

• Col...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 10, 2019

For Birth Control "My experience was not a good one with Mirena. I had high hopes because I heard so many great things about it being helpful for heaviness, which was my reason for getting it. Immediately, I bled on and off for months. I couldn't tell if it was a period or an in-between flow. It was constant. Discouraged with it, I asked my doctor to remove it, and she advised me to give it a year. Well over a year later, still no change. I developed a vitamin D deficiency, which was so concerning my doctor put me on a 50,000 milligram prescription. I also developed chin and jaw acne, weight gain (which is impossible to shed), hair loss, a rash on my arms, pretty severe depression, and exhaustion. Needless to say, after many inquiries to remove it, I finally had it removed today. I would not recommend Mirena."

• Nat...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 29, 2019

For Birth Control "I got the Mirena Nov 2018. After the painful insertion, I felt some cramping, but it only lasted about 2 days with minimal spotting. At first, it was smooth sailing, no discomfort, nothing. It felt like nothing was even there, no periods. Fast forward about 3-4 months, it started to go downhill. I became extremely depressed, I gained 25-30 lbs from November to now. My sex life was nonexistent because of the pain I would experience during intercourse. I experienced almost every side effect of this birth control. I'm having this removed first week of August. I would rather set a timer and take the pill than have something messing with my body in ways that I've never experienced. I hope this helps everyone. I wouldn't recommend this at all."

• Mar...
• August 22, 2019

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I have had the Mirena since May 9, 2019. I have endometriosis. The first few months were terrible: heavy bleeding, mood swings, and depression, and I gained 10 pounds. Now, however, my mood has stabilized, I have dropped 3 pounds, and I do not get my period. Happy days. We are women, and we weather worse things every day other than a chin pimple or some cramping. I think if you give the Mirena a few months to allow your body to adjust to the hormones, you should be fine, and not having your period makes it worth it. If this does not stabilize, however, have it removed. Every woman knows her own body."

• Stl...
• May 24, 2016

For Birth Control "Reasons for the 9/10: 1) Cramping/spotting for 4-6 months. My first time on Mirena, no period for 4 years! 6 years later, and 6 days into the second Mirena I've got typical cramps/3.5 days of menstruation. 2) It could fall out/reposition itself in the cervix (down from the uterus). 5 months after a copper/hormone-free IUD, I found out that this had happened to me, and I switched back to Mirena. Many people have had adverse effects from this medication, including depression, anxiety, mood swings, constant spotting, and painful cramps. Having 5 years of experience on this medication, then switching to a copper IUD for 5 months, I can say that Mirena has HELPED my depression/anxiety. Everybody is different. Plus, I'm not going to get pregnant! So, all in all, I'd recommend this to anyone."

• Cot...
• October 16, 2016

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena IUD for 1 yr, 4 mo. The insertion pain wasn't too bad, but starting immediately after insertion, I had stabbing, knife-like pain in my lower right side, which brought me back to my gynecologist one month later in tears. I was told that the Mirena IUD was not responsible for the pain, and ultrasound confirmed it looked normal. I suffered from chronic pain, leading to NSAID-induced ulcers, complete loss of libido, breakthrough bleeding 20+ days per month, and depression. I was prescribed additional medications and was scheduled for exploratory surgery. One month ago, I had it removed and was reproachfully told it wasn't going to help. Since then, I've had no pain and no bleeding. Mirena did not work for me."

• 123...
• June 30, 2015

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena since 4th June 2015, I'm 45, and had 12 days of light spotting, and the odd headache now and then, and feel really good. I don't feel depressed, I would highly recommend the Mirena! You read all these stories, but everyone is different. So far, so good!"

• pix...
• August 7, 2015

For Birth Control "I had such a horrible time with my Mirena. I wasn't instructed to take medication for pain before insertion. Insertion itself was painful, but as I got home, I was in nauseating pain for 1 hour. I finally took a Vicodin to be able to ease some pain. I did not have a period for the first 8 months after insertion. In the year and a half since I have had the device in, I have gained 40 pounds. I never had weight issues. My mood has turned really aggressive, and I lose it over little things. I am depressed a lot and have no idea why. I had mine removed today, and it wasn't as painful as insertion, but I did feel some intense pressure pain during the removal.... I hope this can help someone!!!"

• hli...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 6, 2017

For Birth Control "I had Mirena for about 2 years before I decided enough was enough. I was bleeding for the first 2 weeks straight, but after that, I never had any bleeding at all. It wasn't until after 6 months that I had severe acne, anxiety/depression, and had gained 20 lbs when I had not changed my exercise routine or eating habits. I'm an aesthetician, and none of my remedies and practices could get rid of my acne. I had zero history of anxiety or depression. It became so bad I started to disconnect completely from my circle of friends. When I removed it, my doctor immediately put me on the pill again, and the doctor was very annoyed that I had it removed. I immediately started to feel like myself again as soon as she pulled the strings out! Avoid this IUD."

• Nca...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 29, 2017

For Birth Control "I got the Mirena placed in March 2014, 6 weeks after my second child. Insertion was easy (I had just had a baby). I spotted for about a month off and on, but after that, I would have light spotting for a day, so light a pad or tampon would have been no use. Bleed only about 3 or 4 times a year. Mirena was incredibly effective, loved the light/less periods, I would almost say non-existent, BUT the Mirena hated me. Horrible chin acne, constant bloating, couldn't lose weight at all, and developed anxiety and depression to the point I hated myself. I had it removed yesterday, and they couldn't find the strings, had to get an ultrasound, and the IUD was at the fundus of my uterus, so they had to shove a hook instrument through my cervix to the top of my uterus."

• ceg...
• September 17, 2019

For Birth Control "Three weeks into having Mirena, I started to experience a significant decline in my sex drive, plus I had mood swings, depression (which I can only describe as a constant feeling of impending doom), anxiety, and acne in places I've never had it before. The spotting was on and off with small blood clots and brown, sticky discharge in between spotting (not romantic at all). I don't know whether this is because of Mirena or not, but I also started to notice a huge decrease in the amount of natural lubrication my body was producing before sex."

• Ant...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 8, 2017

For Birth Control "My #1 prayer is that someone will read this BEFORE they put this poison in their body referred to as Mirena. I had the IUD put in after my Implanon was removed (btw, Implanon was incredible for me. But my OB insisted I got Mirena). I had it in for about 5 years; yes, my periods were light, but sex sucked; it was painful during and after, I was never 'in the mood.' I gained about 50 pounds, grew depressed, obviously. Usually athletic and excited to work out, I became super tired and lazy all of the time. It took a toll on my relationship; I don't even see why he stayed with me (but he's amazing ☺️)! About a month ago, I got the IUD removed. It was a short, sweet procedure, and I instantly felt better (just knowing it was out of me gave me so much satisfaction). I was on a light period when it was removed, and it eventually ended as normal.... one month later, I started my period again (normal). But I have been bleeding since; it's been about 3.5-4 weeks. And if I'm not 'bleeding,' I have brown discharge (looks like dried up blood). I feel crummy, and I long for normalcy! I felt as if I have taken 5 steps forward getting it removed, just to take ten steps back! Don't do it! At this point, I wouldn't advise BC at all, but obviously, people use it for other reasons besides getting pregnant. Nevertheless, the hormonal imbalance and emotional toll are not worth it! I pray that after all of this, I can even conceive another child. I don't know this for a fact, but I feel like there's got to be some kind of extra financial gain for OBs when they insert Mirena. Do what is best for you and don't be afraid to say no or ask every question you need to... I wish I would've. Best wishes, ladies!"

• Cin...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• May 28, 2018

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had a Mirena inserted 10 years ago by a very competent doctor. Because I had never had kids, it was not the easiest to get in. She put in a cervical block (numbs the cervix) and had to spend 30 min getting it in. It did not hurt at all because of the cervical block, and I had 5 years of easy peasy. A weird cramp every now and then, but periods stopped after a few months, and life was great. But you all have to understand, I had not been on a birth control pill for years. I think some of the acne/depression/weight gain some experience with it is because the BC pill was keeping a lot of that at bay, and suddenly you quit taking the pill, and your hormones go crazy."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 20, 2012

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena inserted after the birth of my second child. I have had the Mirena for 3 1/2 years now, and at first it was fine, very light periods and eventually no periods at all. My husband did complain a few times about the strings during intercourse, but that's about it. However, for about the last year and a half, I have had crazy side effects off and on: weight loss (not complaining about that), anxiety, depression, no sex drive, nausea, sore breasts, bloating, stomach pain, cystic acne. You name it, I've got it. I have two boys (3 and 4), and they stay active, but now I just have no energy. I know everyone reacts differently to birth control, but I honestly believe that these side effects come with time, so just keep an eye on your behavior changes."

• Lem...
• October 12, 2015

For Birth Control "I have 2 kids, got Mirena IUD inserted when my youngest was 2 (5 years ago). Physically: right from the start, no problems whatsoever, no weight gain, no acne, light to none periods. Mentally: the first month and then some was awful. I'd never before experienced mood swings like that before, it was depressing. I wanted it out, but was advised to give it time. So glad I did give it time. After the first few months, it's been great. I've been on an even keel as far as moods go. It's been great! I need to have it out now since this month is the 5-year mark. I definitely want to replace it, just hoping I don't go through what I did the first months of the first time around!!"

• D R...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• February 13, 2018

For Birth Control "Had my Mirena IUD inserted in 2007, right after my daughter was born. Had it removed and a new one reinserted once it had been 5 years. I haven’t had a period for 10 years, so it works. I’ve pretty much had Mirena for my adult life and never really put it together. I’ve experienced really bad UTIs and bacterial infections after the second one was put in. Excessive sweating and hot flashes, depression, joint pains, bloating, and weight gain. Again, all of this never registered. I’m not much of a complainer and just assumed aging was the problem. I’m now at my heaviest, went down 60 pounds after pregnancy, and have gained it all back since! It’s really hard to maintain or lose any weight! Exercise hasn’t helped! Went to get it removed, and now the doctor can’t find it! Having to get an ultrasound to see where it is. Can’t wait to have it removed and see if that helps all my issues. I’m only posting this so other women don’t feel like they’re just crazy."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• May 1, 2017

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena in for a little over 5 years. I spotted every now and then the first couple of months, but my doctor prescribed me estrogen to take for about a week to stop the bleeding. After that, I was okay. I've never had problems with depression until about two years ago. I was low in energy, didn't want to do much, and I gained 25 lbs in the last year. My hair also started coming out. At first, I thought the depression, hair loss, and weight gain was just me, but after reading other comments, I see that it wasn't. I just got mine removed today, and it's such a relief. I'm going to give my body a rest to normalize itself before I opt for the pill, which is what I had my doctor prescribe me."

• Sha...
• May 9, 2016

For Birth Control "I thought I'd share my experience with the Mirena IUD. I'm a 26-year-old female in a committed 3-year relationship with my boyfriend. Throughout my lifetime before the Mirena, I've had a history of depression and hormonal issues taking birth control. Since the age I was sexually active, at 16, I tried every other over-the-counter option: the ring, pills, patch, condoms, even tried the diaphragm. On top of this, I would have extremely painful periods in which I would lay around all day and take close to 12 Advil daily. One doctor recommended the IUD. After 6 years of thinking if I should get the IUD, I finally did, and it changed my life. No pain for periods, and hormone-wise, I'm all set :)"

• Joa...
• September 7, 2019

For Birth Control "Had the Mirena for 8.5 years and overall loved it!! Except I suffered from high anxiety, depression, blurry vision, foggy brain, and overall emotional wreck. Decided to talk to my ob-gyn, who was very understanding and removed it during my visit. I immediately felt a sense of relief, my anxiety decreased, my vision is no longer blurred, I can think clearly, sex is enjoyable. No period yet, which I’m happy about. Mirena was removed 8/6/19. 9/5/19 had a tubal ligation. Went well, I do have 3 lap sites on my abdomen and some swelling/discomfort but no pain. No vaginal bleeding either! I hope that ridding my body of the Mirena hormones will help me lose weight as it also had me retaining extra water and did I mention terrible acne! I have lost water weight and my face cleared up immediately. I have to say I did enjoy having the Mirena other than the horrible side effects I did enjoy not having to worry about birth control or a menstrual, but was it really worth it?? I think not!!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• July 18, 2012

For Birth Control "I had Mirena placed in January 2011. As soon as it was placed, I have not had my menstrual cycle. Between that and the fact that I didn't have to worry about taking it every day, that was the only good thing I experienced with it. I had more than half of the side effects of Mirena, which included, but not limited to, depressed mood, migraines, backaches, swelling, weight gain, dizziness, sometimes painful intercourse. The list goes on. For me, the side effects outweighed the effects."

• Ove...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• November 21, 2019

For Birth Control "I have had the Mirena twice, the first time was perfect, but had it again after my second child, and this one has been completely awful. I’ve experienced 30-40 lbs weight gain, bloating, extreme anxiety, depression, brain fog, and fatigue. Quick sharp pains in my cervical area, the doctor said these are normal and prescribed me some antidepressants that I didn’t take. But I've had it for 4 years. Yes, I would recommend it for unwanted pregnancies, but you will deal with the other issues, so your choice. I’m about done."

• Anonymous
• September 29, 2012

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena put in about a year ago and have recently had it removed! It almost caused a divorce. I had mood swings, depression, acne, tired but couldn't sleep. I also had ovarian cysts that had me in the emergency room. I felt like I was pregnant. I kept feeling flutters like a baby. I have now seen other women felt that way too. I removed it at home. I just pulled the strings and it popped out. No pain or bleeding. I have had it out for about a week now and feel fabulous!!"

• 2nd...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• June 5, 2022

For Birth Control "I had my first Mirena for 5 years. No pregnancy. Looking back, I realized after 3 years my hair was thinning and my anxiety and depression worsened to the point I lost jobs and relationships. I got a replacement IUD, and that very day I had an anaphylactic-type reaction to food. I have never in my life had any kind of sensitivity or allergy to any food. My lips swell up, other foods made my throat swell (scary!). I started getting hives around my crotch and other areas of my body. My gyno did not take my concerns seriously, said no way it was the IUD. I trusted my gut and got it removed, my gyno seemed annoyed. Four years post-removal and still have issues with tons of foods. It did improve a lot, but I am very sensitive to anything causing a histamine response in my body. Food, drugs, alcohol… causes either swelling of my face and body and/or headaches and ramps up my anxiety. I also learned I have a cyst near my right ovary. Trust your gut and don’t let your gyno gaslight you."

• Kay...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 5, 2019

For Birth Control "I had a horrible experience with the Mirena IUD. I had always been on the pill, and after the baby, I tried the IUD. Shortly after, I became overwhelmed with anxiety and depression. I was a new mom and couldn’t perform my duties. I was in a dark place. My digestion was so messed up, I was in so much pain trying to go to the bathroom that I would come close to passing out. I have been Mirena-free for 3 months, and I’m working so hard to get my body back. The depression and anxiety are gone. My body is still very sick. I have mild digestion issues. I take many supplements to balance it out. I have daily headaches. I’m always tired, no matter how much sleep I get. I have a lot of pressure in my head. I still do not know the extent of the damage caused, but I was healthy before Mirena and I can say it has ruined my life and robbed me of my child’s first 7 months. I do not recommend anybody to get this kind of birth control. The risks and side effects are too severe when there are other options out there."

• Bre...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 16, 2019

For Birth Control "I got the Mirena in January of 2017. I started having symptoms after about 6 months. In December of 2018 and January of 2019, I was hospitalized. Excessive throwing up, severe abdominal cramping, fever, and literally crawled up in a fetal position in so much pain! They chalked it up to “gastritis.” Now here it is July, supposedly I’ve had 5 UTIs since the visit in January. All of these were misdiagnosed. I was diagnosed with PID - happens to 1% of women. They finally linked every problem for the last 2 years to the Mirena. I got it removed immediately. Today, I was sent for a CT to see what other damages the Mirena has caused to my body. Do not get this! Other symptoms I have been experiencing - severe depression, anxiety, horrible breakouts, lack of appetite, loss in sex drive, excessive hair loss, weight gain (20 pounds). Doctors disregard anything you say and act like you’re making it all up. Don’t let them change your mind. You know your body!"