I’ve tried two forms of birth control – the NuvaRing and the Mirena hormonal IUD.

With the NuvaRing, I used it for two separate time periods. Both times, I experienced debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. I would break down frequently throughout the week and became obsessive over things my partner was/wasn’t doing, or events in life that were/weren’t happening. It pushed me close to emotional paralysis and psychosis. I relied on valerian root extract to help calm me down throughout the day.

With Mirena, I have gained 40 pounds over the course of 3 years. I gained 15-20 the first year, 10-15 the second year, and 5-10 the third year. The weight gain has slowed down only because I am actively trying to lose weight with intermittent fasting. Otherwise I continue to gain.
I have also had leg cramps, tingling in my feet and hands, and sharp pains on the left side of my lower abdomen. I am also experiencing heart palpitations in the evenings now.
Mentally, I suffered from severe postpartum depression that I now believe was induced by the IUD. It lasted for about 3 years and is tapering off only because the IUD is losing its efficacy. I suffer from monthly PMDD which I have never experienced prior to the Mirena. I am just a different person, mentally and physically. I don’t recognize myself and will be getting it removed in about 6 weeks. I’m so thankful for the enlightenment and the wake-up call. Never going back to hormonal birth control again.

I used FAM to conceive and will be using it to prevent pregnancy as well.

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