One Year with Mirena: Changes and Concerns

Using Mierina for one year?

After using Mirena for a year, I noticed that my menstrual flow decreased to just a few days of dark brown spotting that required only wiping, lasting about 2-4 days.
By the fourth month, I have effectively been in a state of amenorrhea with no menstrual bleeding for the past year, which has saved me money on sanitary products.
However, I have developed significant lower back pain that I didn't experience before, with some days being so severe that I can hardly stand up straight.
Additionally, I've been experiencing acne and continuous weight gain.
I would like to ask the doctor if these changes are normal and if they are related to Mirena.
Would you recommend removing it, or would switching to a copper IUD be a better option? I'm struggling to think of a better contraceptive method, as I am very concerned about the possibility of pregnancy and whether these contraceptive methods are compromising my health.

Zheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it may be related to the Mirena.
You might consider switching to a copper IUD to see if your acne improves.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/06/23

More Info

Using Mirena for a year can lead to various changes in your body, and it’s important to understand these changes in the context of your overall health and well-being. Mirena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) that releases levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of progesterone. Many women experience changes in their menstrual cycle and other side effects while using Mirena, and your experience seems to align with common outcomes.

Firstly, it’s not unusual for menstrual bleeding to decrease significantly or even stop altogether after the first few months of using Mirena. Many women report lighter periods or amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation) after prolonged use. This can be a positive aspect for those who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding or dysmenorrhea (painful periods). However, the absence of menstruation can also lead to concerns about hormonal balance and overall health.

Regarding the symptoms you mentioned, such as increased lower back pain, acne, and weight gain, these can be associated with hormonal changes due to the IUD. Hormonal contraceptives can sometimes lead to side effects like weight gain and skin changes, including acne. The back pain you are experiencing could be related to hormonal fluctuations or could be coincidental and related to other factors such as posture, physical activity, or stress.

It’s essential to consider that while Mirena is effective for contraception and can help manage certain menstrual issues, it may not be suitable for everyone. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or side effects that impact your quality of life, it’s worth discussing these concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether these symptoms are indeed related to Mirena or if there might be other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

If you are contemplating whether to remove Mirena or switch to a different form of contraception, such as a copper IUD (which does not contain hormones), it’s crucial to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Copper IUDs can lead to heavier periods and increased menstrual cramps, which might not be ideal if you are looking for relief from heavy bleeding. On the other hand, they do not have the hormonal side effects that some women experience with Mirena.

In conclusion, while your experience with Mirena is not uncommon, it’s essential to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision about your contraceptive options. Remember, your comfort and health should always be a priority when choosing a contraceptive method.

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