Re: Could it ALL be mirena? Is it too late for me?

Thank you for sharing your story. I have had my IUD for almost 5 years also-- it's due to come out in February 2011. I have been struggling with deciding if I want to get another one or get a hysterectomy. I chose this IUD in the first place because of debilitating, painful periods with severe mood swings just before my period. Merina solved all that for me. Yes, I had back pain at first, but my doctor warned me I would have back pain and it went away. I also gained more weight than I had ever weighed, even when pregnant with my children. But I started exercising and lost the weight. Two years later, my fiance and I broke up-- I had been emotional, didn't want to have sex with him and was hyper critical of his behavior (that doesn't sum it up completely, but that's the behavior I was responsible for). I haven't been able to maintain a stable relationship since. I have noticed that I am experiencing mood swings again. I am gaining weight again-- I just assumed it was related to Depression as the days got shorter and my kids turned into teenagers. Last year I saw my OBGYN and asked him if the Merina could be causing my crying fits and mood swings-- he said that it's impossible, but from what I'm reading it looks like it's highly probable. I am scared that the Merina is causing my Depression and weight fluctuation, but I'm also scared of the painful, 10 to 12 day long periods once it's removed. I'm only 35 but it seems that a hysterectomy is my only option. I've been told that there are problems with hormone imbalances after surgery as well, but that's what hormone replacement therapy is for-- right? I'm just confused.