I got my IUD placed 7 weeks ago. I have suspected endometriosis. My doctor (endometriosis specialist and minimally invasion gynecological surgeon) suggest that the Mirena IUD may help with pain & fertility management. (Progestin, the artificial version of progesterone, helps prevent the growth of endometrial tissue). I had never been on birth control before in my 20 years of life, but I was willing to give it a shot.

I had a suppository the night before that caused contractions and bleeding as it dilated my cervix. I had a paracervical block injection that numbed my cervix. I took some Advil. The pain with the placement was minimal.

Over the next 5 weeks I cramped daily, I would say the pain was 5-6/10. I also bled regularly and wore a pad every day for those 5 weeks. Around the 6 week mark I quit bleeding & cramping and had my IUD check. Placement was fine, doctor was pleased, things were looking good.

In the past couple of days, the lightning bolts have started. It’s what I would imagine pregnant women mean when they say “lightning crotch.” It goes from my uterus to my vagina and rectum (the rectum cramps are AWFUL). It is shockingly painful & breath taking. It is consistent. I am also having chills, brain fog, and bloody discharge, and abdominal distention.

Does this go away?? Is this concerning?? Am I a baby?? Help!