Mirena and Spotting: What Users Say

• Nik...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• February 26, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "So, this is my second round with the Mirena IUD. June 2020 will be 5 years (this is my second one). Recently, I got spotting on Sat, Sun, Mon, then it stopped on Tuesday and returned on Wednesday. I do not remember this happening with my last Mirena, and I'm a bit thrown off as to why it's spotting, then stops, then comes back. Has anyone else experienced this?"

• Anonymous
• October 1, 2008

For Birth Control "I love my Mirena. I've recommended it to several friends. I'm 43 and have 2 kids and wanted something to simplify my life. Insertion was not at all painful or even uncomfortable. I had some spotting continuously for about 3 weeks, but since then I haven't had my period (2 years). I have no side effects at all, and I love NOT getting my period. No cramping, mood swings, PMS, heavy bleeding, not to mention all the dollars saved on NOT buying outrageously expensive tampons and pads. I have never been so happy with a product of this nature. Much better than the pill and that awful sponge, messy diaphragm and horrid condoms!"

• Bus...
• September 3, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I was recently diagnosed with adenomyosis due to heavy, painful, irregular periods and cysts. My consultant gave me the option to have a Mirena coil, which he said will help my lining of my womb, stop heavy bleeding into my uterus, and having it inserted would feel similar to a smear test. So I booked my appointment based on his recommendation. As the alternative was a hysterectomy. I got it fitted July 2020, which was the most horrendous pain I've ever experienced, felt like a stabbing contraction and I was in tears from the pain. I had a little spotting a few days later with some severe cramps. The cramps stopped and then two weeks later, I started to get brown jelly-like spotting, which wasn't very nice, and I also don't feel very clean because of it. I spotted for two weeks, then came the heavy period, which hasn't stopped and it's constant. I don't like the way it's made me feel, and I've only had it in for five weeks, it's worse than what I had before."

• OB ...
• October 22, 2009

For Birth Control "I am an OB nurse, married with two children ages six and three. I chose the Mirena after suffering severe migraines on the pill. I interviewed several OB doctors at my job and my pregnant patients about their form of birth control prior to their pregnancy and decided to give the Mirena a try. I had the Mirena inserted in early May. Insertion process was very painful. It reminded me much of mild labor contractions. After the insertion, I had mild cramps for the remainder of the day. For three weeks thereafter, I experienced light spotting and wore a pantyliner. For the next four months, I would spot beginning the same day each month for a week followed by a regular light period two weeks after the spotting subsided. It is now five months after insertion and I did spot for less time but no period came. Rather, I experience symptoms of bloating and increased appetite as if my period is going to start but without the period. I am most happy to report NO migraines and I lost weight! My mood and libido have remained the same. I cannot feel the string I was instructed to check for monthly, and no complaints from my husband. I did experience some hair loss and noticed my complexion is not as clear, but overall, I am satisfied with the Mirena and recommend women to try it, especially if you want a low-maintenance birth control method."

• San...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 7, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "At 47, after 2+ years of embarrassing and isolating hemorrhaging blood loss, I got a Mirena. Life has greatly changed - while still anemic, I’ve had no more iron infusions or blood transfusions. I am willing to take overnight trips. I occasionally experience spotting, so I still wear pads, but nothing like the clots of 3 years ago. It has proved an absolute positive for me!"

• Not...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 12, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I've had mine for 1 year and constantly have spotting or bleeding. My husband jokes that's why it's such a good form of birth control because I'm always bleeding on it. There's only like a week straight that I don't have any spotting or blood. Not very happy. I thought after a year it would've gotten better."

• Tav...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 15, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena put in Aug 13, 2019... spotted every day for about a month, finally had a period but very lightly. Ruined my sex life, constantly bleeding and smell of old blood. Days I wasn’t spotting when having sex, made me realize that old blood was sitting in my cervix which cause me to smell during sex. Finally got it removed yesterday and just want my body to get back to the way that it was... I would rather deal with my period than to not know when I’m gonna bleed or having continuous spotting and a horrible sex life. One day after removal I’m bleeding like a normal period so hopefully that will clear everything up. I would never put in another Mirena."

• Den...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 23, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena IUD inserted on Feb 4th. It took 5 mins to insert, and they used an ultrasound machine to ensure it was done correctly. I have an extremely high pain tolerance, but must say the insertion was probably the worst 5 mins of my entire life. The pain was ridiculous! After that, I had mild cramping for 24 hrs and light brown bleeding for 3 days. On the 4th day out of nowhere, I felt sick to my stomach and had horrible cramping pains. Lasted for 30 minutes. I was almost in tears, but it subsided with 800 mg of Advil and a hot water bottle. My period was supposed to start on Feb 14th, but I had brown spotting 3 days prior and am still menstruating! It's been 11 days straight; it's light but enough to need a panty liner or tampon. I'm exhausted, cranky, and frustrated. My next doctor appointment is on Mar 7th to check that the IUD is still in the same position. I'm thinking if I bleed all of March, I'm getting this thing taken out. I had no idea I'd bleed for this many days in a row."

• HSF...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 20, 2015

For Birth Control "I was scared to get Mirena after reading all the horror stories, but got it anyways, and I'm liking it so far! I'm 20 years old with no kids. Cramping during insertion and off and on for a few days after, nothing unbearable. Skin has gotten better, and I've actually lost weight, but this might not have anything to do with Mirena. The only downside is I'm still spotting, but my doctor said it should be gone within a month or so. No pain during sex, and my boyfriend says he can't feel the strings either. Would definitely recommend! Don't let all the horror stories scare you."

• Win...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 23, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had Mirena inserted in January 2019. It is now February 2020. The thin brown spotting is constant every day. I’ve ruined every pair of underwear I own. I’m not sure how much weight I’ve gained...maybe 10-15 pounds. I’m constantly bloated. My skin looks ok but not as good as before...not broken out...just different. The only benefit from this thing has been birth control. I tried to give it a chance but have come to the decision to get it yanked. I’m 40 and will be considering a tubal ligation. I can't win with hormonal birth control!"

• kar...
• October 19, 2014

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena inserted 7 months ago. It was a little painful and discomfort for a couple of minutes, but if you have been through normal childbirth, you can handle that pain, you can handle anything. After the insertion of the Mirena, which my doctor recommended because I was suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding that would last up to 2 weeks, I spotted a little after insertion and was also cramping the next day. It was all gone about a week after insertion. Then the bleeding was full-on for about 1-2 weeks, then it would stop for a few days, then the bleeding started again. It was constant: 1 week of bleeding, then a stop for another few days. I was so frustrated, as was my hubby. Now everything has settled. We are all different, you have to be patient."

• Nik...
• May 31, 2014

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I chose Mirena because I was having heavy periods with severe cramping along with terrible acne and PMS symptoms. I am 27 years old and have never had children. I was very nervous before the procedure because of reading many terrible reviews. First off, placement was the most painful experience thus far. Not even exaggerating. I've got a very high pain tolerance, and I thought I was going to pass out. I left the office in some serious pain and cramping, and it continued for about a day. I spotted for about a week along with minor cramps. It's now been 2 months, and I have not had any spotting, cramping, or periods! My mood is better, and for the first time in 10 years, I haven't had any acne breakouts. Also, zero weight gain! I love Mirena, best choice ever."

• rai...
• December 7, 2009

For Birth Control "It's now been three months since I had the Mirena IUD inserted, and I'm glad I went for it. The insertion was not painful, although measuring the cervix was. However, the pain went away real quick. I had lots of cramping and spotting for the first six weeks, and since I'm very sensitive, it made me a bit moody too. However, as it settles in, I'm loving the convenience and the no-worry assurance of birth control, and I'm very glad I got the Mirena. Read a lot of negative reviews before I went for my appointment, but I felt like it was the right thing for me, and I'm glad I trusted my instincts. If you're thinking of getting one, just know that there is an initial adjustment period, and things will get better if you just give it some time."

• jen...
• April 30, 2008

For Birth Control "I'm 22, have never been pregnant, and had my Mirena inserted ~3 weeks ago. Other than some slight cramping during and some moderately worse cramping later that day and for a few days after (nothing pain killers can't handle) it's been great! I used to have really heavy, really painful periods (which is why I went with Mirena over the paragard) and though I was supposed to get my period the week after they put it in, I haven't had anything but super light, almost non-existent spotting."

• Bur...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 26, 2014

For Birth Control "I had Mirena placed in on September 12, 2014. I just had my second child in July 2014 so the insertion was not painful! I liked the concept of having Mirena but now that I have it, I have not stopped bleeding since!!! I can't have sex ever because I am always spotting! It is just annoying!! I am really considering getting it removed! I would much rather have my period once a month than bleed every single day!!"

• Anonymous
• February 25, 2009

For Birth Control "I have been very happy with Mirena. It was inserted at my 6-week postpartum appointment. I was nervous but felt nothing. It felt like a Pap smear. I did have spotting for about 6 weeks after. I started a diet program two weeks after insertion, and I have lost 21 lbs in the last 6 weeks, so don't believe it when people tell you that they gained a whole bunch of weight after insertion. I have no complaints, and I would recommend Mirena to anyone."

• Joa...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 9, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had the Mirena inserted in July 2018. I had it inserted to help with heavy periods and cramping. Since having this Mirena inserted, I have not stopped spotting/bleeding the entire time. I may stop for a few days here and there but literally have been spotting or bleeding every day since July of 2018. I am now scheduling to have this taken out. It has been expensive with all the pads and tampons I have paid for the last 18 months. It’s not worth it."

• don...
• March 13, 2010

For Birth Control "I've had it for 6 days. I don't have kids, am young compared to most users, and have a tilted uterus. I chose not to use the numbing shot because my doctor said the needle would hurt just as bad as the insertion. I took 400mg of ibuprofen 1 hour before the insertion. It hurt but only for about 20 seconds. I had a kind of reverse contractions for 2 hours. I was directed to take 800mg of ibuprofen. I suggest going #2 before the insertion since it's very painful to do so after. Since insertion I've had minor spotting and very little pain. Do not use a tampon, it's so painful to remove. (I use a diva cup when I go out) Don't be scared off by all of the horrible reviews, most people only write a review when something goes wrong."

• Anonymous
• May 21, 2009

For Birth Control "Had my Mirena inserted about 2 weeks ago. I am 22 and haven't had any kids. I wanted an alternative to the pill as I've been on it for 6 years. I have to say that I was pretty nervous after reading so many bad comments. I was on the 3rd day of my period and, for me, the insertion hurt like a couple of pinches and a really bad cramp that gave me all hot and made me nauseous. But it only took about 10 minutes, and then it was okay. The rest of the day I had fairly strong cramps but nothing unbearable. The next day I felt back to normal. My period lasted another couple of days and stopped like normal. Since then, I have had very minor spotting with an odd little cramp here and there. Very happy so far."

• Dan...
• February 24, 2014

For Birth Control "Alright ladies, my experience with Mirena entails no gruesome or terrifying stories that will make you run for the hills. My experience with Mirena has been fairly good. I got Mirena approximately 6 months ago. Beforehand I was entirely frightened due to the horrible reviews that people post on the internet. But let me just straighten this out. Some people do have bad experiences but those people are the ones who feel obligated to narrate their story to the world. So I'll be the one to write something positive. Slight pain during the insertion, nothing worse than cramps. A month of irregular bleeding. Only to be followed by four months of glorious period-free time. I occasionally get spotting but it isn't anything bad at all."

• Car...
• May 19, 2014

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I've had the Mirena for about 3 1/2 years. At first, I experienced bleeding for about 4-6 months with only a few days of not bleeding in between (like some have said). I got it inserted after I gave birth to my son. After those first months of bleeding passed, my periods became light and only lasted a few days. I love this because before I was a heavy, heavy bleeder! But recently, I've noticed way more acne, along with bleeding (spotting) every 2 weeks. Now all of a sudden, I had a heavy period again along with cramps and the same old stuff! I'm kinda scared because it has always worked extremely well for me! I wonder if all this is because it's getting closer to the 5-year mark! Can anyone relate?"

• Sti...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 23, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "Glad to know I’m not the only one still experiencing spotting. I’ve had like low to heavy spotting for over 8 months now. My ex said the area of me stunk, but we were fighting bad and breaking up. I have a very poor sense of smell but don’t notice an odor, but his comment made me extremely self-conscious. I’ve never had anyone else say I had an odor. I’m going to call my gyno immediately on Monday. After reading comments, I realized side effects are pretty bad. Got weekly acne like I used to get just once a month with my cycle, which used to be like clockwork. Now I bleed heavy one day, brown spotting another day, then no bleeding... no rhyme or reason to it."

• My...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 21, 2014

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "At 51, I have uterine fibroids and was experiencing super heavy bleeding for months at a time. My doctor recommended Mirena and I unenthusiastically agreed to it because my other choice was a hysterectomy. When younger, I had a terrible experience with the pill (made me really depressed, which otherwise I am not). I had Mirena inserted 4 months ago and love it. I put on a bit of weight at the beginning, which I have mostly lost already. The heavy bleeding is gone. I still wear a pad because I spot once in a while, but before I was using Depend because the bleeding was SO HEAVY. My mood is okay, no depression or any similar symptoms. No acne. Insertion is painful but quick. The discomfort goes away immediately. So far, Mirena is okay for me."

• 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."

• Mom...
• March 3, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I got the Mirena after my first baby. I didn’t think it was awful to have inserted, but it was a little achy and felt pressure for a few weeks after. But then I loved it and loved not having periods. No problems for 3 years, and then I started having vaginal itching and a smell down there like mashed potatoes. I also had brown spotting that didn’t seem to want to stop. The doctor gave me a pack of birth control pills and told me to take 4 at once, it made me nauseous as anything, but it stopped the bleeding. After the second baby, I got the Mirena again, and now at 2 years on the second Mirena, I’m starting to have vaginal itching again with a sour vaginal smell. I’m also having thick flesh-colored discharge coming out in clumps. I actually think it’s the mucous membranes from my uterus lining coming out without blood, if that’s even possible. I’ve noticed having leg cramps too. All in all, I love Mirena and have no regrets and will continue to use it until either my husband or I get fixed."