Mirena Side Effects – Depression and Anxiety

There are several side effects from using the Mirena IUD device. These include abdominal pain, cramps, headaches, vaginal bleeding and discharge. One other side effect which affects women on a common basis is depression and anxiety.

Depression occurs typically in long-time users of Mirena. It has been reported that up to 6 percent of all users become clinically depressed from using the IUD for an extended period. The depression is often accompanied by anxiety, mood swings and abnormal behavior.

These side effects should disappear after the IUD has been removed, but many women still have the depression especially after having the IUD removed early. One study revealed that the depression occurred after the removal of the Mirena IUD in 36 percent of users under the age of 33. Women over the age of 33 were at an even higher risk of developing depression after the device’s removal.

If you are one of these women, consider going on the Mirena Detox Program. But first, understand what the symptoms of depression are. If you experience any of the following, you want to see a doctor right away:

Feeling sad, hopeless, guilty or anxious for more than two weeks
Feeling irritable
Loss of energy or fatigue
Trouble concentrating or feeling indecisive
Loss of interest in hobbies or sex
Changes in sleeping habits, such as sleeping excessively or experiencing insomnia
Changes in appetite resulting in weight loss or weight gain
Inexplicable aches and pains
Thinking about suicide or death

Only a doctor or mental health provider can diagnose clinical depression. After you get your diagnosis, you should stop using Mirena and opt for a different contraceptive.

It is believed that the Mirena hormone Levonorgestrel is responsible for causing the depression. When the Mirena IUD is stopped abruptly, the serum level in this hormone has been proven to cause depression in some women. Your family history may also have a lot to do with experiencing depression from the IUD.

If your live a stressful lifestyle or an inactive lifestyle these, too, can lead to depression. If you have ever had a history of drug or alcohol abuse, this can also contribute to Mirena’s ability to cause clinical depression.

How to Manage Depression

Get support right away. Join a support group for depression or just rely on your family and friends for help. Try and stay as positive as you can. If you think negatively, it can worsen your depression and impede your ability to get well.

Lots of exercise helps boost a normal hormonal balance and helps endorphins fight off sad feelings naturally. Also be sure to eat well.

Try the Detox. Mirena can leave some residue in the body making it harder to regain normal hormonal balances. Try a detox using holistic and all natural remedies. Also, making use of green tea, lemon oil, St. John’s wort and garlic can help cleanse the body and boost your mood safely.