Positive Mirena Insertion
I’ve seen so many horror stories online about how painful IUD insertion can be, so I wanted to share my positive experience. I have endometriosis, polycystic-appearing ovaries, and a fibroid, which have caused heavy bleeding, breakthrough bleeding, clots, and painful cramps. I’ve been on birth control pills since I was 16, though I did try Nexplanon around age 20 and unfortunately bled nonstop for a year.
I’ve never been pregnant and I also have a retroverted uterus, so I was nervous going into the procedure. About 30 minutes beforehand, I took two extra-strength Tylenol. The speculum made me feel a little crampy, which is typical for me. The tenaculum used to stabilize the cervix felt like a tiny pinch that only lasted a couple of seconds. The actual IUD insertion was the most uncomfortable part, but for me it felt like a strong period cramp that lasted only a few seconds.
I had some light cramping and minimal bleeding after insertion, but honestly the cramps weren’t even close to the severity of my usual period cramps. The strings feel a little scratchy right now, but I’ve read that they soften over time. Overall, the experience was much easier and less painful than I expected, and I hope sharing this helps reassure someone else who may be feeling anxious about getting an IUD.