Ditching Mirena

I’ve been on Mirena since 8/2/16. I’ve gained probably 50 pounds, lost a decent amount of hair, and recently dealt with some cysts. My next appointment is just over a month away and I’m considering my getting my Mirena removed. I’ve read just about everything I can about every form of birth control on the market and I don’t know what to do. I am on seizure medication and it may impact the pill, because of this I am hesitant about getting back on the pill. I would have to research this further, if I were to seriously consider this. Since my gynecologist is a half hour away, the shot seems a little impractical for me but not impossible. Anything I’d have to insert (NuvaRing, cervical cap, sponge, etc) would be new for me, but once I got the hang of it and calmed my anxiety about it would probably be okay. (I’m not much of a tampon user because I’ve always felt dumb and I never had anyone there when I started my period to really show me how to use them. I try occasionally to use them but still don’t know what I’m doing). I’m hesitant about the arm implant (nexplanon?) or going on another IUD - not sure why, just am. May do it anyway, because it’s highly effective but I feel like all these issues I’ve had, made it just not worth it. I’ve heard a lot of mixed things about the arm implant so, maybe that explains my hesitation? I’ve considered going without birth control and trying to stick to condoms since my sex life has dwindled. But, I feel like there’s always risks there (unpreparedness, breakage, etc) and that does nothing for stopping for my periods which was a perks of the IUD (because fewer periods has the potential to run into fewer seizures if there’s a definite connection between the two).

The point of this post was to ask this amazing community of women and resources about their experiences and advice and what they might suggest.

About me:

- 1 partner, monogamous, long term relationship

- 22 year old professional & student

- usually busy and always on the move (daily, lengthy commutes)

-currently working night shifts but that is subject to change