My mother had her Mirena in for 10 years and she had the 5 yr insertion. She had lost her insurance after having my youngest sister and there was nothing any doctor would do for her. Finally about a month ago she realized she felt the springs and without even trying to pull it out it just came right out. She said it didnt hurt and there was not bleeding when it just dropped in her hand. Though about a week she was bleeding heavily and thought she had damaged something on taking it out. Since then though she has been fine and is happier without the burden of having it in there. Thank you for all these posts. They have helped me get the courage to try and take mine out on my own. =]