"i am 28 and do not have children.  i had the mirena inserted 2 years ago. i have used both the pill and the depo provera injection but was planning to travel and start a graduate program abroad and i did not want to worry about access to contraceptives.  i have had a really positive experience with mirena.  the insertion was pretty uncomfortable, but my doctor warned me prior that the insertion can have a higher degree of discomfort for women who have not had children.  over the last two years my periods have become lighter and lighter.  now i only need to use a light pantyliner. i do have some mild (very mild) cramping with the beginning of each period. if your doctor recommends this method for you then i recommend it as well."