Levonorgestrel and Weight Gain: What Users Say (Page 2)

• Cri...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 10, 2020

For Birth Control "7 months since insertion. Pros: no pregnancy so far, don’t have to remember to take pills or shots, etc., no condoms. Cons: irregular, erratic bleeding, cramping, back pain, damn near growing a beard, no sex drive (and my husband is hot), weight gain, depression, anxiety, angry all the time, no motivation, a deep desire to lay in bed and sleep all day, every day, months of bleeding, an altered sense of my normal reality. Overall: I hate it!!! I want to feel like me again, but the doc keeps saying to wait it out. What am I waiting for?.... complete loss of confidence and self-worth?"

• Jhr...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• June 21, 2020

"This... omg, this has been enlightening. 1.) 30+ lbs. I have gained almost 50 lbs, but I lost almost 20 again. I have literally been working so hard to lose weight. 2.) Acne? Yes! Bad, bad cystic acne. 3.) Pain, tingling, weakness, and numbness on one side of my body. 4.) Infections. 5.) Mood swings/depression. 6.) Cramping/bloating. 7.) Stomach pain. 8.) Pain/cramping after sex. 9.) Low birth weight/premature birth of my daughter. 10.) I am honestly shocked, devastated, and determined to remove it after finding out this is all from Mirena. This is my 3rd Mirena, and I went from the 120s to the 170s and now am back to the 160-ish. I have been through so much with this, it’s unreal. Don’t do it."

• Mou...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 22, 2017

For Birth Control "I have had the Mirena for about a month. The insertion was easy, and it took my very experienced OB about 5 minutes. It honestly felt like a pap smear. I also have 3 kids and a retroverted uterus for what it's worth. Unfortunately, I have had spotting every day since. I hope it stops soon because I have no other side effects. No weight gain, acne, etc., and my sex drive has actually increased (weird, right?). So if you are considering having a Mirena inserted, my advice is to try it and see how it works with YOUR body. Yes, you can read the horror stories on this site and others. People are much more inclined to share a negative experience than a positive one. Talk to your doctor and look at actual peer-reviewed studies."

• HFa...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• December 16, 2019

For Birth Control "This IUD has caused so many health issues for me. I had this IUD and had rapid weight gain of 50 pounds. I have always been curvy but never overweight or unhealthy. I am now considered obese. My breast size that were DD are now an H. My breasts weigh a good 35-40 pounds. I now have shortness of breath because of my weight gain (especially in my chest area) and now have a belly (never had that before my IUD). I got awful headaches and now have reflux and possibly sleep apnea due to my rapid weight gain. I had two different doctors check everything that could cause weight gain, and the only thing they determined was my IUD (I had great lab work and no diabetes or thyroid issues). I have back fat now and fat around my neck and upper shoulders that I never had before. I went from being an hourglass figure to looking like the Mucinex guy. This IUD has completely changed me for the worse. I think it’s extremely unhealthy."

• Car...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 16, 2020

For Birth Control "The insertion didn’t hurt much, just a few cramps that my gyno warned me about in advance. However, my body went into shock afterwards and passed out and wasn’t even able to drive myself home. It’s been 3 months since I started Kyleena, and I have already gained 10 lbs with no change in my diet. I have extreme mood swings and get a very short temper most days when I have always been a very forgiving person. My bloating is constant, and I’m always uncomfortable. I’ve never had a problem with acne before this, but now I constantly break out around my chin. My sex drive is lower than when on the pill, which could be from my self-consciousness because of the weight gain and bloating. I don’t recommend this to anyone, and I’m counting down the days to get this removed."

• Mis...
• May 22, 2020

For Birth Control "First of all, the insertion procedure with Skyla was excruciating for me. I had severe cramping, worse than anything I've ever experienced, and they held me for observation for almost an hour because I was extremely lightheaded. I had 1 week of severe cramping and was bedridden. An ultrasound confirmed that the IUD was correctly positioned. I've had mild-moderate cramping and spotting almost every day since then, no sex drive, and gained 15 pounds in 3.5 months despite dieting and working out 6X/week (P90X). I am only 5'3", so 15 lbs is a lot on my frame. Dieting has not helped. My blood pressure has gone up, I'm bloated all the time, and have developed some facial hair. I have decided to have the IUD removed because I'd rather be pregnant than feel like this all the time."

• Cla...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 1, 2020

For Birth Control "Best decision I’ve ever made! Please don’t let the horror stories scare you from trying the Skyla IUD. I let the negative reviews get into my head, and it caused me to put off getting my IUD for two years. Finally, 5 months ago, I got the Skyla inserted. The insertion didn’t hurt at all! Just a slight cramp that lasted maybe 5 seconds. I went home and used a heating pad, but never cramped. My first period was light, right off the bat. I still get monthly periods. However, they are so light I can get away with just wearing a panty liner. I love the freedom my IUD gives me. Not having to take a pill every day is wonderful. It’s sooo much better than a pill. I was in the rare percent of women who lost a lot of hair while using the pill (TriNessa). The IUD never caused any hair loss or weight gain. The first month I got a few more zits than normal, but now my skin is clear again. It’s worth a try, and remember you can always remove it."

• t_a...
• December 14, 2015

For Birth Control "I got my Skyla IUD 5 months ago. I am 18 and have never had a child. I liked the idea of the IUD because I didn't have to remember to take it, it was there for three years, it was the most effective, and because there was an option to have an IUD without hormones. I struggle with depression and anxiety, and I was afraid that hormonal birth control would only make matters worse. However, because of all of the terrible period stories I had heard about it, at the last minute I had my OBGYN switch to Skyla. The insertion did not take long at all, and amid horror stories, the pain wasn't unbearable. It didn't feel great, but it was well worth it. If the fear of insertion is what drives you away from this option, don't let that happen! Before my IUD, my periods were like clockwork, every four weeks, five days, no cramps - perfect. Afterward, I still don't get cramps, some periods have been really light, but I have had a period that was over a week late and one that was two weeks long. This is to be expected in the first few months. I do not believe that it has had any influence on my depression/anxiety, at least not monumental. I haven't gained weight, lost my sex drive, or any other negative symptoms. My partner has finished inside of me multiple times, and nothing has happened. Also, he cannot feel the strings. I would highly recommend this form of birth control. I understand every body is different, but if you're spending hours reading horror stories like I was, don't let that stop you."

• Gee...
• January 12, 2020

For Birth Control "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! :)"

• Ste...
• August 25, 2020

For Birth Control "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."

• twa...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• February 13, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I was 42 when I first got the Mirena. Had it put in to control my heavy periods. It took at least 6-8 months of still getting a period and off and on spotting before it completely stopped. I have had it now for 5 years and just recently had it removed and another one put in. I am now 47, and this one will take me into the menopause stage of my life. Other than some cramping after insertion and, of course, weight gain, I have been happy with my decision."

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

For Birth Control "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!"

• luc...
• January 23, 2016

For Birth Control "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

For Birth Control "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."

• Bro...
• September 16, 2020

For Birth Control "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."

• Anonymous
• October 5, 2010

For Birth Control "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."

• Kia...
• January 25, 2021

For Birth Control "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!"

• Haz...
• January 3, 2014

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I have dysmenorrhea. I have had Mirena for almost 5 years, due to get a replacement at the end of this month. It has been great - no periods, increased libido. I did get some angry red pimples on my chin, which cleared up with antibiotic cream from my GP. Have gained weight, but this is undoubtedly due to my terrible diet and lack of exercise! My GYN said I could leave it another 6 months, but I have been feeling moodier/libido decreasing the last couple of months, due to the hormones waning. Mirena is the best thing I ever tried, I got it to try and stop my very painful periods, and it has worked!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 27, 2019

For Birth Control "I had Skyla implanted 6 months ago and have since gained 15 pounds. I don’t eat terribly, I exercise a few times a week and haven’t changed my eating habits since insertion. I feel like no matter what I do, the weight just keeps packing on. Has anyone else had these issues? I’m desperate and about to take the thing out."

• Kay...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• November 8, 2019

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I've had Mirena since April of 2016. I will finally be getting it removed next week. Benefits: *I haven't gotten pregnant in 3 and a half years on my Mirena. Consequences: *I bled for 11 months after having it inserted. *I gained back 60 pounds that I had worked two years to lose. *Lifestyle/diet changes, intense exercising with a class, and drinking only water for over a year has helped me to lose 2 of those 60+ pounds. *I have extremely irregular periods now. Sometimes 2 in one month (lasting 1-2 full weeks), and sometimes no period for 6-10 weeks at a time. *For two years, I have dealt with fairly constant/daily 'cramps' and pain I used to associate with PMS. *For a year now, I have dealt with breast tenderness and pain. *For the last six months, when I lay on my stomach, it feels like I am being stabbed just below my abdomen. My OBGYN says every single one of my symptoms is normal. I am miserable."

• Bes...
• April 7, 2016

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "Well, after I was told I needed Mirena for heavy bleeding and being anemic, I was scared to death. The reviews of this medication can scare anyone out of trying it. I had my tubes tied 8 years ago and did not need birth control but was told by my OB-GYN that it was less invasive than an ablation, which I really did want. I decided to give it a go! My OB said not to be scared, that every woman will have different reactions to this! I needed to have day surgery to have this inserted as my cervix was closed up too much to have it put in the office. Well, it's been 6 weeks and it's been great. I spotted for 10 days after the procedure and nothing since. I was scared of weight gain, hair loss, and acne, but nothing has changed! Please give it a try!"

• Jus...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 29, 2020

For Birth Control "I have had Kyleena for 6 months now. At first, I thought it was great aside from the terrible pain at insertion. The pain was breathtaking, and I thought I might faint. The severe pain lasted a few minutes, with minor cramping for days after. I decided to get Kyleena due to heavy periods and terrible cramps. My iron levels stayed low, and I would feel very faint at times. Kyleena has really helped the pain and bleeding. My periods are very light, with mild cramps. I plan to have Kyleena removed due to mood swings, weight gain, and vaginal infections, which I've never had before. I feel depressed and angry most days, which is not normal for me at all. The Kyleena IUD might be great for some women, but it's just not working out for me. I hope this helps someone."

• Sey...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 18, 2021

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "In Oct 2020, I had lost so much blood during my period that I had to have a blood transfusion (3.5 bags). Afterwards, my gyn-ob gave me birth control pills w/ estrogen to regulate my heavy periods. It made my blood pressure go through the roof. I also had swelling in my legs, feet, and ankles. So in March 2021, I decided to have the Mirena IUD inserted. I was still bleeding heavily when my gyn-ob inserted it. It was a bloody mess. Mind you, my vaginal area was sore from all the bulky tampons that I experienced such a stinging sensation. Now fast-forward to July 2021, I'm still experiencing heavy bleeding at times. I'm constantly having to wear panty liners. I get headaches and strange body aches monthly. I've gained weight in the back of my neck and belly. I once had clear skin but not anymore. I've been hiding behind a mask the entire time. My mood comes and goes. I'm contemplating removing the IUD. I was miserable before the IUD, and now I'm miserable with it. This dilemma has ruined my livelihood."

• Rez...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 14, 2021

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena for 3 months. In those 3 months, I experienced the most horrific symptoms ever, and it was definitely the Mirena as I didn't have it before, and I was tested for many other things, which all came back normal. I got it removed today, and almost instantly my lower back pain disappeared, along with constant cramping, and even the headaches I started getting from it have subsided today! I became HIGHLY, dangerously anxious on this thing. I got into a severe manic depressive state on it, had such bad anger problems and outbursts over nothing, not to mention the weight gain and sudden migraines/headaches, joint pain, and pressure in my skull! I am actually furious as to how much this messed me up, but I know not everyone had bad experiences on this, which I find so shocking due to the things it did to me."

• chi...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 21, 2021

For Birth Control "I had it in for a year and a half. I gained 50 lbs, and even when I tried to lose weight, I could only lose 5 lbs from a month of working out. I also had prolonged and heavier menstruations. I was told it would regulate after a few months, but that never happened, and I even started getting cramps and back aches, which I never had before the IUD. I took it out March 4th, 2021, and I have lost 7 lbs already! This was a nightmare of an IUD, and I will definitely never get an IUD again."