QuestionI had my son 3 1/2 years ago. I was on the Depo shot from 6 weeks after his birth until May of '08. In April, I got the Mirena implant and was told that in a couple months I would be spotting some, and getting my menstrual cycle back, abeit lighter flow. I have yet to see anything menstrual come back in the picture, and am seriously considering surragacy for a couple I know. How can I tell if I am ovulating again? Is it possible that I'm not?
AnswerHello Kristina,
The mirena is a progesterone IUD and suppresses both ovarian function and uterine lining development. It is just like taking the Depo provera shot. You will not have a menstrual cycle and will not ovulate. In fact, this IUD is also used for women who have heavy periods to stop their bleeding. The only way that you will get back to ovulating again is to have the Mirena removed. You will then have to wait 4-6 weeks before you will start again.
Your doctor should have counseled you regarding this before the Mirena was put in. IUD's require extensive counseling and consenting before placement.
Sincerely,
Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
