i had the mirena inserted in april 2003 while i did enjoy the ease of not having to think about birth control i finally had it remove when i could no longer deal with the side effects...insertion was painful but i suppose shoving a piece of plastic through you cervix and into the uterus some pain can be expected...i had low grade headaches...was extremely tired...mood swings... cry me a river...my primary care sent me to a neurologist for sciatic pain and numbness in my right foot...i gained 10 pounds... i had two vaginal infections...need i say more...6 days ago i had it removed after 8 months of thinking i was crazy...when they finally yanked that puppy out my leg instantly started tingling...my foot in no longer numb...i lost three pounds...the river is dry...of course i have been lightly bleeding but i dont anticipate that lasting...it must work for some women i would never suggest this form of birth control...i think i will now opt to have the man bleed for a change snip... snip... please pass the scapel...i am filling the ice cube tray while i type...good luck