I went to my GYN yesterday for a long-overdue annual check-up. As I walked through two waiting areas chock full of massively pregnant women, I thanked science for my Mirena. With a nearly perfect effectiveness rate, I have the best birth control outside of abstinence. No surprise pregnancies for me!
My doctor immediately asked me how I was doing with my Mirena. "I sing it's praises every chance I get!" I'm sure it's annoying, but when IUD is a topic of conversation I can't help but tell people how much I love mine. It's been easy, clean, and effective. What's not to love? The doctor did my physical exam, which felt just like exams prior to insertion (sorry - I seriously haven't been back since 2011!). Afterward he indicated that I had just over a year of efficacy left in my current Mirena. He said that if I would like to have another inserted immediately after this one's removal next year, that would be okay. He also reminded me that once removed, fertility is unaffected and I could get pregnant during a lapse in protection. Of course I told him that I'll be getting another Mirena and couldn't wait. With that, my very quick appointment was over.
So after four years with Mirena, here are my reflections:
- I've saved at least $300 a year in the cost of birth control pills and tampons
- I've avoided over three solid years of ZERO period and cramping
- I haven't had a single bloody accident in over three years
- I haven't gotten pregnant!
- I haven't had any pain or discomfort, or for that matter other issues, with my Mirena
