Mirena vs Paragard

BearkatLou

I'm researching Mirena vs Paragard and know that Mirena contains hormones while Paragard doesn't. I'm also researching actual patient reviews of each and finding that Mirena (because of the hormones) causes weight gain and facial acne (these were the most reported side effects) in some users.

If you chose one, why and what has your experience been with it regarding side effects? And why did you choose one over the other? Did you know about both of them (or have the option of both)?

 Thank you so much for your help!!!

mommyaug06

I got mirena on June 11. I started spotting the next week and spotted until about 2 weeks ago when I got AF. I have spotted 1 or 2 times since. So, my advice is keep a stok of panty liners!

My face has brokes out more the normal. I had a freakin pimple on my chest last week and one on my back today. I have NEVER had that happen. 

Other then that its been great. No weight gain. Im actually losing but not because of the Mirena. 

NHMountainBride

I had a Paraguard inserted about 5 weeks ago.  I had no cramping, 2 days of light spotting, and no AF yet!  I chose Paraguard because hormones cause huge mood swings for me.  So far, I've had no side effects.  I should add that I EBF.

inbetween

My dr. suggested the paraguard over the  mirena, but gave no specific reason. I have been going to her since I was 17, so I trust her. I had spotting for a couple of days, and it has been off and on ever since. the cramping went away the next day. I started AF about a week after getting it inserted, and much to my surprise it was lighter then prebaby AF.

Snowbride02

I had the Paragard.  My periods were heavier than before but not too bad.  I loved it and might get it again even though my insurance doesn't cover it.

mrsgtobe

I had Paragard after DD2. I chose it over the Mirena because I really wanted to stay away from any forms of hormonal contraception.  It was a painless insert, and it worked great.  For the first 6 months, I had incredibly heavy periods, but after that they became lighter than before the IUD.  Best of all, when we changed our minds about being done having children, I got pregnant my first cycle after it was removed.  

Poplin2007

I got Mirena because my doc said the hormones mean it can potentially make my periods lighter/shorter.  We plan to have another baby or two in the near future so I didn't need the longevity of Paraguard.

As far as side effects, I have had it for 3 1/2 weeks and I just stopped spotting (fingers crossed) this weekend.  I've always had bad skin so I don't know whether my current acne can be blamed on Mirena...

I don't know what PP is talking about, I found the insertion pretty painful!  But it was over quickly enough.

makclair

I got mirena at 6 weeks pp, and have loved it! I have not had a pp period yet, not sure if that is due to breastfeeding or mirena hormones, or both.