"i had this inserted a couple of weeks ago.  insertion was painful but didn&#039;t last long.  just started my first period since insertion and i&#039;ve never had cramps this painful in my life.  felt like i was in labor.  period is much heavier and my abdomen is tender.  i&#039;m going to hang in there and give this a shot since i am 44, a smoker, and didn&#039;t want to risk being on the pill anymore.  i am told the negative side effects should taper off, so i&#039;ll have to wait and see.  sex was a little painful at first - i don&#039;t know if it&#039;s just my being nervous about possible pain, but i felt little twinges of pain during.  we&#039;ll see how it goes and i&#039;ll post updates as i go."