When I first heard about the Mirena coil for menopause, I was unsure if it was the right choice for me. After struggling with symptoms and trying different forms of HRT, I was still facing challenges—especially with progesterone. I had tried nearly every other option, so this was really my last choice. I knew I needed to find a better option, but the thought of having a coil fitted made me nervous. I had read more negative experiences than positive ones, which I reasoned may have been because people tend to discuss difficult experiences more often than when things go smoothly or without issues.
I had been thinking about this for a couple of years before finally deciding to go ahead. After much consideration and discussion with a doctor from the Newson Clinic, I booked my coil fitting with my local GP. Even after making the decision, I still had concerns about the fitting process, potential pain, and how my body would react.
In this blog, I’m sharing my honest experience with getting the Mirena coil, including what the fitting process was really like, how I felt afterward, and the benefits I’ve experienced since having it. If you’re considering the Mirena coil as part of your menopause treatment, I hope this helps you feel more informed about what to expect.
What is the Mirena Coil?
The Mirena coil is a small, T-shaped plastic device known as an intrauterine system (IUS). It’s inserted into the womb (uterus) and releases a hormone called levonorgestrel, a type of progestogen. This hormone helps prevent pregnancy and can also be used as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.
Source: nhs.uk
How Does the Mirena Coil Work?
Once in place, the Mirena coil releases levonorgestrel directly into the womb. This hormone works by:
- Thickening cervical mucus: Making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg.
- Thinning the womb lining: Reducing the likelihood of an egg implanting.
- Suppressing ovulation in some women: Preventing the release of eggs from the ovaries.
These actions make it a highly effective form of contraception and a beneficial component of HRT for managing menopausal symptoms.
Source: nhs.uk
How is the Mirena Coil Fitted?
The fitting procedure is typically straightforward and takes about 5 to 10 minutes:
- Preparation: You’ll lie on an examination couch, similar to when having a cervical smear test.
- Insertion of Speculum: A speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to allow the healthcare professional to see the cervix.
- Measuring the Uterus: A small instrument measures the length and position of the womb to ensure correct placement.
- Placing the Coil: The Mirena coil, contained within a thin tube, is inserted through the cervix into the womb. Once in position, the tube is removed, leaving the coil in place with two threads extending into the upper vagina.
- Trimming the Threads: These threads are trimmed so they sit just inside the vagina; they allow for easy removal later and enable you to check that the coil is in place.
Source: balance-menopause.com
Some women experience mild discomfort or cramping during and shortly after the procedure, but this usually subsides quickly.
Trusted Sources for Further Information
For more detailed information, you can refer to the following reputable sources:
- NHS: Intrauterine System (IUS) – NHS
- Newson Health: The Mirena Coil: Your FAQ
- NHS Inform Scotland: IUS (Intrauterine System) – NHS Inform
- Balance by Newson Health: balance-menopause.com
Pain During the Mirena Coil Fitting – What to Expect & Discuss with Your Doctor
One of the most common concerns women have about getting the Mirena coil is whether the procedure will be painful. The experience varies from person to person—some describe it as mild discomfort, while others report significant pain. Unfortunately, there is no standardised approach to pain relief, and different GP practices and clinics offer different options.
A BBC article highlighted the experiences of many women who found the procedure unexpectedly painful, with some saying they weren’t offered pain relief despite finding it distressing. The article raises concerns about the lack of consistency in care and pain management options across the UK. You can read more here: BBC News: Women Share Painful Experiences of IUD Fittings.
If you are concerned about the pain, it’s important to have a discussion with your doctor or nurse beforehand. Some options that may be available include:
- Taking pain relief beforehand – Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen may help reduce discomfort.
- Local anaesthetic or numbing gel – Some clinics offer this, but it’s not standard practice everywhere.
- Cervical softening medication – Occasionally, this may be used to make insertion easier, particularly for women who haven’t given birth vaginally.
- Sedation or stronger pain relief – This is rarely offered but is sometimes available in hospitals or private clinics.
Since there’s no universal approach, it’s always worth asking what your options are before your appointment. If you’re anxious about the procedure, speaking to your GP in advance can help ensure you get the support you need.
My Experience with the Mirena Coil Fitting
The day of my appointment arrived, and I made my way to the GP surgery, feeling a mix of nerves and relief that I was finally getting it done. My husband had taken the day off work to come with me for support.
After checking in at reception, I waited in the waiting room, but after half an hour, the doctor called reception to say there was a delay due to an issue with the previous patient. Another half-hour passed, and I was informed there would be more of a wait. The doctor even asked if I wanted to reschedule, but I didn’t want to go through the build-up of nerves all over again. I had already waited weeks for this appointment, and since coil fittings were only done on specific days, I knew rebooking could take some time.
Feeling increasingly anxious, my husband suggested we go for a short walk to clear my head while we waited. When we returned, the doctor was finally ready for me. The delay had made me even more nervous, especially knowing that the doctor had only been fitting coils that day. I couldn’t help but wonder what had happened with the previous patient.
Once inside, the doctor explained the procedure and reassured me. A nurse would also be present to guide me through some breathing exercises to help me relax. I wasn’t offered any pain relief, but I had taken ibuprofen and paracetamol an hour before. At the time, I didn’t know about any other pain relief options, so I hadn’t asked.
I was positioned on the couch, similar to a smear test, and the nurse talked me through breathing in for five seconds and out for five. The fitting itself was painful—around a six on a scale of one to ten—but the deep breathing helped. Everyone has different pain thresholds, so this may not be the same for other women. Thankfully, the discomfort only lasted about one to two minutes.
Afterward, I felt a little shaky but recovered quickly as the doctor discussed next steps, including any adjustments I might need for my estrogen gel. My husband drove me home, and I was grateful to have him there—I wouldn’t have wanted to travel alone. I would definitely recommend having someone with you, as leaving alone or driving yourself may not be ideal.
The rest of the day, I experienced strong cramping, similar to intense period pains. Regular paracetamol and a hot water bottle were my best friends.
How I Felt After the Fitting
The following day, the pain had eased significantly. It was still there but not as strong or intense. I continued taking paracetamol to manage any lingering discomfort.
Over the next few days, I noticed a steady improvement. The pain became less noticeable each day, and I didn’t experience any immediate concerns. One of my biggest worries was that I would instantly feel that the coil wasn’t right for me and would need it removed, but that wasn’t the case at all.
For the first few weeks and months, I felt good—no bad reactions, no discomfort, and I started to feel reassured that I had made the right decision.
After a few months, I noticed a major improvement in one of my biggest menopause symptoms—extreme bloating. Previously, I had suffered from daily bloating that left me feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious. I constantly had to wear elasticated waistbands because anything fitted felt too tight. With the coil, the bloating gradually reduced, and I no longer experienced it daily. This felt like a huge relief.
Nearly a year on, I’m still feeling good. The bloating has improved significantly—while I still experience it occasionally, I’ve also addressed my diet and introduced supplements that have helped support this further.
My sleep has remained consistent, with only the odd restless night here and there.
Overall, I believe that having the Mirena coil has significantly improved my quality of life and enabled me to manage my menopause symptoms much more effectively.
Final Thoughts & Recommendations On Mirena Coil For Menopause
For me, the Mirena coil was the right choice. I’m happy that I took my time to research and carefully consider whether it was suitable for me, discussing my options with my doctor before making the decision.
The biggest benefits I’ve experienced are relief from constant bloating and the daily bleeding I was struggling with. These symptoms were incredibly difficult to deal with, and having them significantly reduced has been life-changing.
While the procedure itself wasn’t pleasant, the discomfort was temporary, and considering the relief it has provided, I feel it was absolutely worth it—especially knowing it only needs to be replaced every four to five years.
If you’re considering the Mirena coil, my advice would be to do your research and have a conversation with your doctor to determine whether it’s the right option for you. Every woman is different, and what works for one person may not suit another. My aim in sharing this experience is to provide an honest perspective that might help alleviate fears for anyone considering this option—just as I once was.
My Early Menopause Journey: A 3-Part Series
If you’re interested in my experience with early menopause, I’ve written a three-part series covering my diagnosis, journey, and what has helped me along the way. You can read Part One here.
If you found this article helpful, feel free to like or share it with someone who might benefit too. Your support helps me continue sharing practical tips and hormone-friendly insights for healthier living.
Leave a Reply