It is now 5ish hours from when I left my appointment for the IUD insertion, and I promise I’m not dying. I’m chillin’ on the couch, a little sleepy, a little crampy but a lot thrilled I didn’t let my fear of the “pain” and the process stop me from getting the Mirena.
It’s probably easiest to just read my “live tweets” which I’ve complied via Storify (click the title for the link) to get the full experience. However here are the main takeaways:
1- It hurts.
But not that bad. About two short, dull, uncomfortable pains and two quick, sharp ones. Then follows the cramping everyone talks about. But I sat up afterward, walked home fine and wasn’t doubled over in pain.
Just take ibuprofen and Tylenol beforehand, and you’re good. And no, I wasn’t given the shot that some people have referred to. I think I’m glad for that. Why endure ANOTHER source of ow?
2- Its so fast.
I tried to count in my head while the main event took place. I never even made it to 40 before it was over. It was a good distraction as well. You can handle anything for 40 seconds! Especially if it lasts you 5 wonderful years.
3- The worst part…
Honestly, the waiting was the worst. The hype, the anxiety and the anticipation. And for Gods sakes do NOT do what I did and browse other people’s “experiences” on Twitter while waiting. It’s a nightmare. I’m taking it that this is similar to customer service… Everyone will talk about a bad experience while all of the good ones go under the radar.
4- Its individual
And that’s probably what is most important. My experience wasn’t that of some of my friends’… Everyone I talked to had a unique story to tell and was affected differently. Both during the insertion and in their side effects. For me, my initial panic was all in the extreme pain of two previous procedures I’d had… A cervical biopsy and a leep. In which I was told to “prepare for heavy cramping and a pinch” in both cases… That’s NOT how I would have explained the torture of either. This was nothing in comparison. For my friends who have had children, “it really isn’t bad.” Well, that makes sense. But for those without, there’s not much to compare it to and you’re not used to that sensation so of course it could seem significantly worse than your monthly period cramps. However- it’s nothing compared to labor and delivery. Isn’t that why you’re considering the IUD anyway? So, give it a shot.
Like I said… I’m already VERY happy with my decision and it hasn’t even been 24 hours. Of all the friends I’ve talked to, even those who had tough experiences or temporary unpleasant side effects, so far all have said they’re happy they did it and will do it again. 👍
