Mirena IUD Pain: Possible Causes & What to Do

Question
I had the Mirena IUD administered Sept 2006. I have had little to no problems until the last month and a half. I do not have insurance but I went to the health dept to get a pap & to see if the strings were in place. My reason for this visit was due to a pretty constant pain in my right ovary area....like the pain you get from ovulation only this did not go away...also I find that intercourse can hurt when penetrated deeply along with occasional bleeding after wards. Go ahead & rule out any STD...I am STD free & sure of it. :D I am not pregnant. The nurse said that my problem was probably a cyst & that the IUD can cause them. Is this true? Is it dangerous? How do I know for sure? Will it affect my chances of becoming pregnant and having a trouble free pregnancy later? Could it be something else? Keep in mind I am broke & have no insurance so I am trying to see what is really necessary for treatment. Is the Mirena really a good choice? Sorry for so many Q's. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Amanda,
I believe the Mirena is a good choice, especially for someone who is sure they will be STD free.  I doubt that your pain has anything to do with the Mirena.  I don't think the Mirena causes cysts.  Most ovarian cysts are a result of ovarian function which leads to ovulation.  Ovulation continues in most women with the Mirena, so you have the same or a little less chance of an ovarian cyst as if you didn't have the IUD.  Most ovarian cysts will resolve on their own over time.  However, a month and a half is a little long for most cysts.  Most cysts are not dangerous, but if they don't go away, they may be from a tumor of the ovary.  Most ovarian tumors in young women are benign, but cancer may be a possibility.  Most will not affect your future fertility.  An ultrasound would tell a lot about any cyst and can make a good guess if it is benign or one that will go away.  I know that can get expensive, but if the pain persists I would see someone.  Since you're broke you may be able to be seen at a free clinic or a county hospital where they have a sliding scale so you pay less.  Good luck.