Mirena and Mood Swings: What Users Say (Page 5)

• Ale...
• November 29, 2012

For Birth Control "After giving birth, I was looking for a birth control that would let me breastfeed without any problems. My OB suggested Mirena, which made me a bit nervous because of the mixed reviews I read. Finally, I decided to get it. The insertion was not painful at all (maybe because I had just given birth). I did feel a little bit of cramping that day and the following, but nothing major. I've had it for three months now and I have not had any side effects. My period is very light now, no weight gain, headache, or mood swings, and most importantly, no acne that I have had problems with in the past. I am very happy with Mirena so far. I hope this helps."

• Ang...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 18, 2022

For Birth Control "This is the absolute worst birth control I have ever taken. I’ve had my IUD for 4 1/2 years, and I am done trying to give this thing a chance. I have had no sex drive whatsoever, my mood swings are off the chart. Depression has been an issue for me: headaches, brain fog, and not feeling like myself have been my experience while using this thing called Mirena. My menstrual cycle was heavy and long for the first 6 months of using Mirena. 5-day cycles turned into 14-day cycles and remained until about 6 months in. After 6 months, my menstrual cycle returned to 5-day cycles with 3 days of spotting afterward."

• Loz...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 28, 2019

For Birth Control "The worst 6 months of my life were on Mirena. Insertion was horrific, but nowhere near as bad as the next 6 months after insertion. Three days after insertion, I began bleeding, and it never stopped. It changed my mood, I became depressed to the point I couldn't get out of bed or do my job, caused fatigue and brain fog. Libido decreased severely. Honestly, I thought I was going to die, and the doctors wouldn't believe that the coil could be causing any of my symptoms. After 6 months, I had enough and had it removed. Since then, life has gotten better, but libido is nowhere near what it used to be, and depression remains. I was a very happy, normal 27-year-old, and it changed my life. I wish I had never had it put in."

• Jan...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 21, 2019

For Birth Control "Mirena has worked for what it has promised in regard to ceasing the ability to become pregnant, but it's just not worth it for me. In the three years I've had it placed, just after my daughter was born, I've had random and severe cramping shooting from my abdomen to my thighs and knees. I've had really bad acne, which has left some severe scars, and hair growing where it absolutely SHOULDN'T for a young woman! Unpredictable periods, lasting mood swings, debilitating anxiety, and for a few months, an increasingly crippling depression so dark and hopeless that life was just a chore. Screwing with your hormones is a very bad idea, ladies, if it involves these risks. Every birth control I've ever been on has caused problems similar to this. I think maybe it's time we take back our bodies and stop using these types of birth control (pills, injection, IUD, implants)."

• Tri...
• May 22, 2015

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I was diagnosed with perimenopause in 2010, which included anxiety, depression, and mood swings at the age of 40. I had blood clots flowing down my legs for ten days, then, in 13 days, I would bleed again. I would be doubled over in pain. I became anemic and still am. My Dr. has me on antidepressants for anxiety, which is working. After four years, I was sent to Gyno. She did an ultrasound and discovered I had adenomyosis and endometriosis. She did a D&C, it was too complicated to do ablation or hysterectomy. The Gyno recommended Mirena. She put it in three weeks ago. Dr. cut the string so I can't feel it. Some light spotting and cramping and no period for 31 days now. Gyno will check in five weeks, it takes seven months to get full effect. Give it a chance! Love it so far."

• Pol...
• December 20, 2015

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I have had Mirena now for just over 6 months for adenomyosis and anemia caused by heavy bleeding. I am 50 and hoping it gets me through to menopause. I was offered this 15 years ago but kept saying no. But in the end, pain and bleeding, I gave in and thought I would try before a hysterectomy. I had it put in under a general with a D&C performed. Woke no pain at all, a bit of spotting for about 6 weeks. Sore breasts the first 2 months and mood swings. I have noticed a 1 kg weight gain, but that's not much. I do tend to gain fluid each month in the lower abdominal area when I think I am supposed to have a period. Libido has gone, and I'm struggling to orgasm too. Unsure if I like it or not, not much other alternative out there. I also am having lots of constipation."

• sbg...
• August 27, 2009

For Birth Control "Well, let me share my experience. When I got Mirena, the first day it did hurt a little bit, but not as bad as having a baby. It's been almost a year since I got Mirena, and I have gained about 20 pounds. I feel horrible, and the mood swings are really bad."

• bir...
• May 5, 2010

For Birth Control "I have had Mirena since March of 2009 (so a year and a month total). The insertion was a little painful even though I've had 2 children. The first few months after that, I thought it was great. I was getting shorter, lighter periods, cramping was normal. But, over a year, I started to realize my major mood swings. I went from a sweet person to raging. I started to get severe pains in my right hip and side, severe bleeding where I doubled up on the sanitaries and still bled through, no sex drive, and I have had a few instances where I have lost feeling in my legs. I will have it removed. Hopefully, all of this will go away, and I will be back to my peachy self."

• Mir...
• February 16, 2011

For Birth Control "I have been battling anemia for the past three years as a result of very heavy, painful, irregular menstrual cycles. I have been diagnosed with estrogen dominance, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and a tilted uterus. My gynecologist inserted the Mirena IUD on 10-Jan-11 in order to attempt to better regulate my out-of-control cycles. I unfortunately am a Mirena rejecter. I experienced EVERY possible side effect associated with this device: cystic acne, hair loss, weight gain, constant headaches, shooting pain in my lower back and down my legs, severe fatigue, mood swings, constant bleeding, and excruciating abdominal pain that almost sent me to the ER on four separate occasions. Mirena IUD REMOVED 08-Feb-11. Almost all side effects gone!"

• Mir...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 28, 2022

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I got Mirena to try and treat my severe stage 4 endometriosis and for pregnancy prevention. I have tried so many methods of birth control in the past and have always had bad experiences with emotional issues and depression with birth control, but thought this would be different because it’s more localized delivery of hormones. BOY, WAS I WRONG! I’ve had it for a little over 2 months, my endometriosis symptoms are way worse, bleeding is heavier, and pain more severe (I didn’t think that was possible). I’m anxious, depressed, moody, have zero sex drive, I’m bloated constantly, and can’t lose the last 10 pounds I need to lose. I have zero motivation, I’m ALWAYS exhausted, and I’ve had maybe 4 days in the last two months that I haven’t bled. I have horrible back pain and frequent headaches, pain with intercourse (when we actually try it), and feel completely disconnected. I’m getting removed ASAP."

• Ste...
• November 2, 2015

For Birth Control "I got mine October 18th, 2014, six weeks after giving birth. The first few months were hell. Insertion didn't hurt, but I was still taking hydrocodones from my episiotomy, so that's probably why. I bled for 4 months straight. Then when my periods came back, they lasted two weeks. I lost so much weight, and it wasn't good because I'm underweight. I became so moody and just mean. This is my first birth control, and it could be my body just not reacting well to hormones. However, a year later, and my periods are now 2-3 days and barely anything. I'm happier now, and I'm glad I didn't take it out. Everyone's body is different."

• Ama...
• October 17, 2015

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena inserted June 2015 at my six-week post-natal appointment. I felt no pain, probably because I had a vaginal delivery. I had bad cramps and spotting for two weeks, and that stopped. I have had headaches that won't quit, terrible mood swings (I can go from happy to sad in seconds). I can't seem to shake off all my pregnancy weight, I'm bloated, dealing with insomnia. I don't have interest in sex (which is awful because I'm married). I feel like a completely different person, cramping and spotting - which isn't too bad. Overall, I'm just skeptical about this, and I intend on getting it removed soonest!!!"

• Jad...
• November 10, 2014

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena for almost a year, and it was effective with pregnancy, but I had horrible mood swings. I was bloated, and although I didn't have a period each month, I constantly spotted, especially during sex, which was a huge turn-off for my partner and me. It did not do well with my body, and it was uncomfortable for him during sex."

• aca...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 20, 2019

For Birth Control "It is the worst birth control I have ever used. I have tried Mirena 2 times. The first time I had it inserted a little after giving birth to my first and only child. I had it removed after experiencing severe depression, lethargy, mood swings, and thinning of my hair. I initially chalked it up as postpartum, however, I just had Mirena inserted again for birth control, and I, of course, am not pregnant nor have I recently given birth, and I have the same exact side effects. I am generally energetic and happy, but this birth control has made me into a madwoman, and I am having it removed tomorrow, thank goodness! I will just continue to use the pill - oh, and I gained about 13 pounds after having it for only 3 weeks. I went from 115 to 128."

• Jud...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• July 8, 2021

For Birth Control "I had several Mirenas for the past 17 years. First, it was for birth control, and now part of HRT. The main attraction to the Mirena was the stopping of periods and PMS. The insertion and removal were not bad at all, but also taking Advil before the appointment. I only have good things to say about the Mirena. I had some spotting for a day or two when I had a new one inserted. No pain, no cramping, no mood swings, no weight gain, and sex drive didn't change. I know it does not work for everyone, but if it works for you, it will change your life."

• kjb...
• June 9, 2015

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I got the Mirena on April 23rd to help with my endo and heavy bleeding. I got it removed yesterday, June 8th. I had about 3 or 4 good days, and the rest I was enduring the same kinds of cramps that I did with my periods each month. It drained me. I wanted it to work for me so badly and felt guilty when I asked to have it removed yesterday, thinking I hadn't given it long enough to settle. An hour after it was gone, I no longer felt guilty. The pain was gone. The doctor told me it could take up to 6 months to settle, but I just didn't have it in me to wait it out that long. I had a horrible experience with it. Zero energy, terrible mood swings, and many times I was doubled over in pain similar to labor pains, which took my breath away."

• Jeo...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 16, 2023

For Birth Control "Like others on this list, I'm writing a review because I think people should have a balanced account of a medication before choosing whether or not to take it. My mum told me that the Mirena coil gave her really bad mood swings, however, I can report the opposite, so it really is down to the person who has it. I was prescribed Mirena for endometriosis, and it's really helped! I know some people say insertion really hurts, but I will echo that if you take the right pain relief prior, you will be fine. There was some spotting and brown discharge up to 6 weeks after. Main thing - My moods have had such an improvement, my hormones must be much more balanced now as I've become a lot more decisive and happy. My skin is near enough perfect, aside from the odd jaw spot when I am due on. Light period every 5 weeks (used to be heavy, every 4). Tiny amount of water weight gain during this time, but nothing to be mad about."

• pzi...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• May 15, 2021

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena put in March 2020, and at first, it was great. I was going to put a review here after 6 months but decided to wait. Everything has changed since then. I thought the weight I gained was due to quarantine, but it’s from the Mirena. I can’t fit into any of my clothes anymore, and my breasts have almost doubled in size. I’m extremely dry around my vaginal area, and my sex drive is nothing. I can’t feel anything when I’m touched and cannot orgasm. My period is every 18 days and lasts for 10-14 days, it feels like I never get a break. Recently I have been bleeding even when not on my period (filling a pantyliner every day). I have also been extremely emotional, and it doesn’t take much to tear up. Overall, I’m sure that this works for some, but I’m ready to get this removed. I want to feel like myself again."

• Pan...
• March 29, 2016

For Birth Control "Do not let this thing fool you! I've had it twice now, so for the last 8 years or so. The 1st time around (after my 2nd child), I had it inserted. Didn't hurt too much that I remember. I liked having no period, living in California where it's usually sunny and warm. No period was great. Got it out, had 1 period. Then got pregnant with my 3rd child. Decided to go with it again, and it was fine. BUT then there is the bloating, constipation, abdominal pain, cysts. Yeah, no period is nice, but we are SUPPOSED TO HAVE THEM. This thing is bad, and it took me a long time to realize everything is connected: bloating, constipation, intestinal pain, cysts, mood swings, headaches, brittle hair and nails, etc. Mirena! Don't do it!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 3, 2023

For Birth Control "When I first got the Mirena, I experienced two and a half months of continuous bleeding. I have always had bad cramps, but these were even worse. I felt extremely fatigued and lethargic. Despite being only 21 and active, I could barely get through my days. Additionally, I gained around 20 pounds, suffered from nausea and dizziness, and experienced worse acne, mood swings, and the most intense anxiety of my life. I also started having extremely graphic and violent nightmares that kept me from going to bed at night in fear of having another one. Overall, I would say I hated it! The only positive thing was that I never got pregnant. The worst part was when I told my doctor why I wanted it removed, and she just invalidated every symptom I had, telling me it was not related to the Mirena and not to remove it. However, I still got it removed and found that many women experienced the same thing. You know your body better than anyone else, if it affects you, then get it removed."

• May...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 9, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena removed in December this year, and since January, it's been awful. I have had migraines, throwing up out of nowhere. My neck hurts all the time. I feel off all the time, moods up and down. I have been to the doctor and said maybe it is from the progesterone drop, but this never happened before the Mirena 6 years ago."

• Jus...
• December 23, 2019

For Birth Control "The first time I had the Mirena inserted, after the birth of my first child, I would have rated it 11/10! No period whatsoever, no pain on insertion or removal to have my second child, and I did not get pregnant in the time that I used it, so it did what it was supposed to do! The second time I had the Mirena inserted, after the birth of my second child, it was (and still is) awful. The unpredictable, light or heavy, short or months-long bleeding is ridiculous. My mood swings are uncontrollable and unbearable. I had such an amazing experience with it the first time around, but now I'm trying everything in my power to have it taken the heck outta me - though the doctor(s, plural) insists on 'giving it another month.' How long do I need to suffer? (Australian)"

• Anonymous
• March 20, 2009

For Birth Control "I have had Mirena for a little over a month now. As soon as I put it in, I got acne, it's been a problem for me when I was in my teens and was almost completely gone by the time I was 20. I am 22, almost 23, and now it's almost as bad as when I was 15. I have to wash my face every day with acne creams to help control the breakouts, most of which are on my back. I have all sorts of mood swings, and my husband says that I haven't really been the same since it was inserted. I am going to be looking into a way to offset this. Every once in a while, I will get breast tenderness, but it's not much worse than when I was breastfeeding and often goes away in minutes. I have a horrible time remembering to do things, so when I was taking a pill every day, I had to rely on my cellphone alarm going off to take the pill, and even then, if it wasn't close by or if I was in the middle of doing something, I wouldn't stop to go take the pill. I love that I don't really have to worry about it. My doctor told me since I hadn't been getting my period while breastfeeding, Mirena would more than likely stop my periods, which so far I haven't even spotted one day. I haven't had any problems with weight gain. I have maintained the same weight as when it was inserted, though I am trying now to start losing weight, so we shall see how that goes. Overall, at this moment, I would recommend it to others as long as I can offset this funk I am in."

• fyo...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• November 30, 2018

For Birth Control "I had Mirena for five years. I did not get pregnant while on it, however, I did experience many side effects. For the first year, my period was normal, and by year two, my period became extremely light and lasted for only three days. By year three, my period completely stopped. I experienced a 70 lb weight gain, severe mood swings, insomnia, anxiety, and also was diagnosed with severe depression. This lasted until I took the IUD out. Immediately, I experienced a 25 lb weight loss and thankfully am no longer suffering from depression, mood swings, or anxiety. I am a South Asian woman in her late twenties."

• FMC...
• March 12, 2009

For Birth Control "I had the Mirena put in August 2005. This is after our fourth child. My husband was also glad for two reasons. This was our first boy, and he did not have to get fixed (LOL). I have had no side effects until recently. I have noticed that for about 2-3 weeks prior to my period, I go through major mood swings. Then my period is about 2-3 days (light). I have experienced acne, which I never really had to deal with. So I am now using Proactiv. I am still loving the fact that I don't have to take any birth control pills every day or every 3 months. I am waiting to see what happens after 5 years and they remove it. I am getting another one put back in right away. I would still tell any woman to get this product. Overall, it has done me well."