"i&#039;ve had the mirena for exactly 4 yrs. it has been the best thing ever. i have used pills, nuvaring, the patch in the past, but all those things gave me bad side effects. i had no pain during insertion and cramped very slightly.  although i should mention i am one of those women who rarely gets cramps and i had normal periods.  my periods practically disappeared and i didn&#039;t have significant weight gain.  i am back to my pre-baby weight and absolutely no side effects in these 4 years. i will be getting another mirena."