Hello everyone,

I'm 23 and had a Mirena IUD placed early in the summer. The intense itching began two days after insertion, which developed into hives within the week. A dermatologist and allergist both diagnosed me with "idiopathic dermatographic urticaria" (aka "don't know how or why but you get hives when stuff touches your skin.") They both said give it six weeks and treat with antihistamines.

Then the GI issues began. And I have to say, I'd take hives over this any day. Within weeks there was a noticeable and alarming change. Severe bloating, pain and discomfort (especially after meals), weight gain, and some lower GI stuff, which I'll spare you all the details. I ended up at a gastrointestinal clinic, where we did an ultrasound, an x-ray, an endoscopy, a colonoscopy, and trials of acid reflux medications and fiber supplements: nothing came any of it.

At this point, I was barely eating for fear of feeling sick (I tend to feel better without food, so usually when I wake up or happen to miss a meal.) After only five weeks with the IUD, I had it removed. I was reassured by my gyno and the gastroenterologist that I should see an improvement within two weeks if it was the cause of my symptoms. 2.5 months post removal, and I'm worse. I'm in a fairly desperate search for a solution. I'm going to my first ever naturopath next week to see if they can provide any insight. I've cleaned up an already clean diet and exercise as often as my symptoms will allow. I'll tag on here that I'm also experiencing quite a lot of fatigue and trouble sleeping.

I've never really dealt with allergies or Gi issues before this, and I know when my health is off kilter. This situation is highly stressful and discouraging. I enjoy my life and I'd like to get back to it. During this time, it's given me some comfort to read other posts on this site. I'm not only thankful for the chance to relate to others' symptoms, but also to read the messages offering advice and/or support. So I just want to leave something here that may reassure another reader that they're not crazy for thinking their IUD might be causing their messed up health. I'd also be curious to know if anyone else who has had this combination of urticaria and GI issues have had any positive autoimmune diagnoses? Has anyone attempted a gluten-free (or otherwise restrictive) diet and seen any success?

Thanks for taking the time to read this.