I had the mirena inserted a few yrs ago when it was still considered a "specialty" form of contraception as I had lots of period issues. The insertion was excruciating. I could not sit up for 2 hrs. I had cramping during non-period times the entire time it was inserted. I gained weight and had edema (swelling) in my belly, breasts, feet and legs due to the progesterone that is released directly into my uterus the entire 2 yrs I had the contraption. When I tried to have it removed, the string had wrapped itself around my cervix, which made the removal painful as well. I do NOT recommend the mirena. There is no need for the progsterone to be released into your uterus and the cramping does not get any better with time.