Last Updated on 31 March, 2026 by Cara Sutra
Back in 2022, I realised something wasn’t right. I didn’t feel like ‘me’ anymore. Along with a whole host of other symptoms, it became apparent that I was in perimenopause. Apparent to me, at least – my GP took a little more persuading. You can read about my battle and the symptoms in my Hello Perimenopause blog post. As part of the usual medical intervention at this stage, HRT which aims to stabilise and supplement the naturally falling hormone levels, I was prescribed oestrogen patches along with the uterus-safeguarding progesterone tablets. For contraception through this time, because yes, you can still get pregnant in perimenopause, I had my Nexplanon implant. I recently had this removed, however, because I came around to my GP’s strong recommendation that I get a hormone-releasing IUD inserted. So here it is: my Mirena Coil insertion experience, plus what happens afterwards. As with all things, your mileage may vary – but as I often find it helpful to read ‘real person’ experiences online, I wanted to share my Mirena story. I hope it enlightens you about this particular intrauterine device, how it’s inserted, what to expect, potential side effects; and that it helps you decide whether the Mirena is the right choice for you.
My doctor recommended that I get the Mirena coil because one purpose it can serve is to provide, on an ongoing basis, the release of progesterone that helps safeguard the uterus from cancer while the person is also supplementing their natural levels of oestrogen. The Mirena coil is an IUD (intrauterine device), one of a few types. You can find out exactly how it works and all the details in the info/FAQ section at the end of this article.
When I started my HRT I was prescribed oestrogen patches and the safeguarding progesterone element in tablets form. It is quite a faff to have to keep being prescribed the progesterone tablets, and remember to take them only for a certain number of days every month, and not forget to start taking them again on the right day, etc etc. Plus, as pregnancy is still a risk in perimenopause, you need to also consider what contraception you use. My husband and I have been together many years, and don’t require a barrier form of contraception as you would to stay safe from STIs as well as pregnancy with a new partner or during casual sex.
I’d previously opted to have the contraceptive implant, which is placed under the skin on the underside of the upper arm, as you can read about in my Nexplanon implant article. It lasts for 3 years before needing to be replaced. However, I was informed that the Nexplanon implant wouldn’t work as the progesterone element of my HRT as the Mirena coil would. The Mirena coil is an effective contraceptive, as is the Nexplanon implant. The Mirena would only need to be replaced (or hopefully, just removed entirely in my case, if I get through the menopause by then) in 7 years’ time.
Despite the benefits, I was adamant at the beginning that I wouldn’t be getting the Mirena coil. I’d heard various horror stories, both online and in person from acquaintances, that getting it put in was so painful, and it led to heavy bleeding, and made you put on loads of weight, and could fall out, and could cause pain even when in situ in the womb. All these stories kept coming back to haunt me, making me determined never to endure any of the horrors I’d been told.
So how come I changed my mind, and decided to go through with the Mirena Coil insertion? I was speaking to a younger friend of mine who was due to have her first baby soon, and reassuring her about childbirth.
“Don’t worry,” I said knowingly. “It isn’t anywhere near as horrific as people like to make out. Yes, it’s painful, but I’m sure some people just like to get reactions from sharing terrifying tales.”
Now, I’m quite sure that many people who have had the Mirena coil inserted did indeed have a painful, disturbing, possibly even traumatic experience. Just like with childbirth. That isn’t to say that absolutely every person who goes through these experiences will suffer the same way. The medical professionals concerned, in both areas of gynaecology, are there to ensure that the least amount of pain and trauma possible are experienced by the patient. They have a duty of care. We also, thankfully in our modern age, have plentiful pain medication and other medical solutions readily available.
I’m not saying all this to convince you to have a Mirena Coil insertion, but rather explaining how I came to change my mind and opted to go with the Mirena insertion after all. I decided I would trust my doctor’s advice and put my faith in the medical professionals who would be inserting the Mirena, that they would keep any pain or negative side effects to the absolute minimum possible.
There was quite a wait to actually get the Mirena coil inserted, after I informed my GP I would like to have it in after all. I’d thought I would have the Nexplanon implant out, then the Mirena in – but I was told it doesn’t work that way around. I am guessing it’s to ensure you are covered contraception-wise, plus to keep any hormonal imbalance from the removal/insertion to a minimum. So it was the Mirena coil in first, when I got the clinic appointment for that, then some weeks after that I would receive the date for my implant removal. Both procedures were done at my local GP surgery, with my doctor and a nurse present to help.
On the day I was extremely nervous. My husband drove me there and waited in the waiting room in order to give me any assistance I needed getting back to the car, and to drive me home again. I thought about cancelling the whole thing more than once. However, I stayed true to my decision, chose to wear a long floaty dress and sandals for comfort and easy access (and light period underwear as I’d heard insertion can trigger some bleeding), then it was off to wait anxiously in the doctor’s waiting room until I was called.
My doctor is very good at putting me at ease, and both she and the nurse were chatting to me cheerfully and reassuringly from the moment I went into the room. When it came time for insertion, I needed to remove my underwear, get on the bed and into a similar position to when you get a cervical smear test. I was shuffled further down the bed so my bum was near the edge and my heels resting right on the edge. With legs apart, the doctor checked I was OK for her to proceed and from what I remember, applied a lubricated speculum in order to gain access to my cervix. The cervix was opened in some way, and before the Mirena made an appearance, the doctor measured the height of my uterus. This is so the Mirena coil can be delivered to the exact correct position and no lower or higher.
Video animation of the Mirena Coil Intrauterine Device insertion & position:
Then the Mirena coil device was placed inside my uterus. Again, my memory is fuzzy because I was obviously just feeling all this, and I’m trying to remember what I was being told at the time, but when you have two strangers gazing deep into your insides it’s a little hard to keep focused. The Mirena comes in a slender long package, designed so the doctor can slide it through the held open cervix, into the uterus, and the ‘arms’ of the Mirena open up so that it ends up in the right place, in a T shape. There are strings which come from the bottom stem of this T and hang outside the cervix throughout wear. They are trimmed by the doctor so they’re not too long. You can’t feel them unless you actively go probing deep inside by your cervix for them, and they’re certainly not noticeable when just walking about in your everyday life.
Inserting the Mirena coil wasn’t pleasurable, and it did hurt moderately – but only briefly, and I could counter it with the same sort of breathing exercises I utilised in childbirth. It amazed me how I naturally fell back on those pain management methods when my uterus was once again being invaded! What can also help, that I forgot to do, is to take some over the counter pain meds before you go. Also, have a decent breakfast. Low blood sugar won’t help at all.
Whether it will be too much pain for you to tolerate obviously comes down to your personal pain threshold. For me, that discomfort, that brief pain, was absolutely worth gritting my teeth and getting through, in order to now have all the benefits for 7 years. Seven years!
I was told it was in position, and I could recover for a moment before getting up and popping my undies back on. The doctor and nurse made sure I felt absolutely fine to leave before they let me go back to my husband waiting in the waiting room. I think he half expected to have to carry me back to the car, from my anxiously telling him pre-appointment just what I was letting myself in for, but I was OK to walk through the waiting room and back out to the car without any support. I was, however, very lightheaded. We stopped at a shop on the way home, with me staying in the car while he went in to pick up some groceries. The car was parked, stationary – but it felt like it was rolling backwards, I was that dizzy. I even yelped and reached for the handbrake, thinking my husband had left it off – but it was fully raised, and the car was still. It was just dizziness from the procedure. I needed to get home and rest.
Of course, being me, I didn’t do that. By the time we were home I’d decided to head out for my daily walk around our local town. If I don’t walk every day, I just don’t feel right. It’s my time to get rid of some nervous energy, to get in touch with nature, to have a little peace and to reset and refresh my brain – as well as all the physical benefits of a long daily walk. My husband wasn’t that happy about me heading out to stomp the local hills but knows better than to argue once I’ve made up my mind. I stay local to home, and keep my phone with me, so I promised I’d ring if I needed rescuing along my route.
It was clear after I finished my walk, returned home (I didn’t faint or fall over!) and got ready to have a shower that I’d started to bleed a little after the Mirena coil insertion. Not tons, but enough to keep me wearing my light period underwear in the upcoming days.
The day I had the coil inserted, my womb felt very battered, and I felt quite sorry for myself. I worried that the bleeding would last for absolutely ages as well, with no clear information about when it would stop. The next day, though, my womb felt a whole lot better. That part of my body is clearly used to having to heal and recover from invasive or traumatic experiences! Two of my three children were born via vaginal delivery.
The light bleeding continued that night and for the following week. From the second week it was just very light spotting, barely noticeable but still, definitely there. After that, I have just had light intermittent spotting. Not every day but on occasion there will be a faint amount. At the time of writing, I’ve had the Mirena coil in for about 8 weeks, and there’s no longer any sign of bleeding or spotting at all. I also haven’t had a period since getting it in, if we don’t count the insertion bleeding and resultant spotting as a period. I also haven’t noticed any weight gain since having the Mirena coil inserted. I’m absolutely delighted!
As a sidenote, I was advised not to use tampons or menstrual cups in the first 7 days after getting the Mirena inserted. This is to reduce the risk of infection or accidental removal of the device. After that, I could use tampons or cups if I wished. To be honest, I prefer period underwear these days – it’s also better for the environment! I also needed to book a follow-up appointment for 6 weeks later, so they could do a final check that the device was still in the right place.
I was given a card after the Mirena Coil insertion, which contains details of the specific IUD inside my uterus and the date it needs removing/replacing.
I’m genuinely so pleased I faced my fears and got the Mirena coil inserted. I was almost put off due to all the horror stories I’d heard. Despite not being able to guarantee you a trauma-free experience should you decide to get the Mirena, whether for contraception, HRT or both, I am happy to share my positive experience here in the hope it helps you decide what’s best for you.
Mirena Coil Info & FAQ
What is the Mirena?
Mirena is a type of intrauterine device (IUD) used for birth control. It is a small T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. Mirena releases a hormone called levonorgestrel, which is a type of progestin. This hormone helps prevent pregnancy by thickening the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg, and by thinning the lining of the uterus, which can prevent implantation of a fertilised egg. Mirena is effective 5-7 years and is a popular choice for people with a uterus who are seeking long-term birth control.
Why is it called Mirena?
Mirena is named after the company that manufactures it, Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals. The name “Mirena” is specific to this brand of intrauterine device (IUD) that releases levonorgestrel hormone for birth control purposes.
What is it made of?
Mirena is made of a plastic which is safe for medical devices and is designed to be well-tolerated by the body.
How big is it?
Mirena is quite small; it’s a T-shaped plastic device that is inserted into the uterus. Its compact size allows for comfortable insertion and placement within the uterus.
How is it inserted?
The Mirena Coil insertion is done by a healthcare provider during a simple procedure in their office. The process involves a speculum being placed in the vagina to access the uterus through the cervix. Then, the healthcare provider will gently insert Mirena through the cervix and into the uterus. Once in place, the healthcare provider will trim the strings that hang down from the device. The procedure is usually quick and can be done during a regular office visit.
Does insertion hurt?
It can be quite uncomfortable for some people, but the discomfort is usually very brief. Your healthcare provider will use a speculum to gently open the vagina and then insert the Mirena into the uterus. They may recommend taking pain relief medication beforehand to help manage any discomfort. It’s a quick procedure, and many people find the benefits of Mirena outweigh the temporary discomfort of insertion.
How long does it take to recover after getting Mirena inserted?
After a Mirena Coil insertion, some people may experience cramping and spotting for a few days to a few weeks. It’s common for your body to adjust during this time. If you have any concerns about your recovery after getting Mirena, it’s best to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance. They can provide specific advice based on your situation.
Will the Mirena stop my period?
Mirena can lead to lighter periods for some people, and in some cases, it may even stop the period altogether. It varies from person to person, so it’s essential to discuss your expectations and concerns about your period with your healthcare provider before deciding on Mirena.
How long does it typically take to notice changes in my period with Mirena?
Typically, it can take a few months for your body to adjust to Mirena, and you may start noticing changes in your period during this time. Some people experience lighter periods or a decrease in the number of periods they have.
How often does it need replacing?
Mirena typically needs to be changed or replaced every 5 to 7 years. It’s important to follow the recommended timeline for changing Mirena to ensure continued effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Your GP or medical professional will be able to advise you on when to replace your Mirena device. You will likely receive a card which fits into a purse or wallet, which provides details of the Mirena coil being inside the body of the carrier, as well as the replacement/removal date.
Why do people get the Mirena?
Many people choose to get Mirena because it is a convenient and highly effective form of birth control. It offers long-term pregnancy prevention for several years without requiring daily action, like remembering to take a tablet. Additionally, Mirena can help reduce menstrual bleeding and cramps for some people, making it a popular choice for managing these symptoms.
Does Mirena prevent STIs?
Mirena does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is essential to use barrier protection during sex, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of contracting STIs.
How effective is it at preventing pregnancy?
Mirena is highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with a failure rate of less than 1% in typical use. It is one of the most reliable forms of contraception available.
Will it make me put on weight?
Weight changes can vary from person to person with Mirena. Some individuals may experience weight gain, while others may not notice any significant changes.
Can Mirena help with perimenopause?
Yes, Mirena can help with perimenopause symptoms for some individuals. It can help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding and cramps, which are common symptoms during perimenopause. Additionally, Mirena can provide effective birth control during this transitional phase.
Is Mirena an option as part of HRT?
Yes, Mirena can be part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for some people during perimenopause or menopause. It can help with managing symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and provide effective birth control while receiving hormone therapy.
How does the hormone released by Mirena affect the body?
The hormone in Mirena, levonorgestrel, thickens the cervical mucus to impede sperm from reaching the egg and thins the uterine lining, which can reduce menstrual bleeding.
What side effects can result from having the Mirena?
Some common side effects of Mirena Coil insertion can include changes in bleeding patterns, such as irregular spotting or light bleeding, especially in the first few months after insertion. Some people may also experience headaches, breast tenderness, or mood changes.
Is it free to get the Mirena coil?
In the UK, Mirena is typically available through the NHS for free or at a low cost. It is often provided as part of the contraceptive services offered by the NHS. If you’re interested in getting Mirena, you can consult your healthcare provider or visit a sexual health clinic to inquire about the process and any associated costs.
In the USA, the cost of a Mirena Coil insertion can vary depending on factors like insurance coverage and the healthcare provider. Some insurance plans may cover the full cost of Mirena, while others may require a copay or out-of-pocket payment. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider or healthcare provider to understand the specific costs associated with getting Mirena in the USA.
What makes the Mirena different to other IUDs?
Mirena is different from other IUDs because it releases a hormone called levonorgestrel, which is a type of progestin. This hormone helps to thicken the cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg, and it also thins the lining of the uterus, which can reduce menstrual bleeding. Other IUDs may not contain hormones or may use different types of hormones.
Who should not get the Mirena?
It’s essential to discuss with your doctor whether Mirena is suitable for you. Typically, individuals who have certain health conditions like certain types of cancer, liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding, or a pelvic infection should not get Mirena.
Has Mirena been fully tested and approved for use?
Yes, Mirena has undergone extensive testing and has been approved for use as a form of birth control.
Is there anything to watch out for when using Mirena?
While using Mirena, it’s essential to be aware of any unusual symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, or heavy bleeding. If you have any concerning side effects or changes, let your doctor know as soon as possible, and they will be able to advise the best course of action for you.
Find out more about hormonal IUDs such as the Mirena coil on the Wikipedia page as well as many other resources online.
