It revolves around the experience of collective learning.

Lived experience

“Just What’s Best”—A Story About Progestogen Intolerance

Shared so others can learn, and feel less alone.

For most of my adult life, I had a Mirena. It was what was recommended. “The best option,” they said. It made sense—long-acting, low hormone, good for bleeding, easy. And in many ways, especially in my younger years, it did help. I didn’t question it. I just accepted that this was what was best.  But over time, something changed. Not in an obvious, dramatic way—but slowly. My energy began to fade. I felt flat, less motivated, more tired than I should have been. I didn’t feel like me. The joy I usually found in small things dulled. My brain felt foggy. Everything felt just that bit harder to get through.

Eventually, I had the Mirena removed. And what happened next was undeniable: it was like someone switched the lights back on. I felt clearer, more awake. My mood lifted. I started laughing again. I had energy. I had focus. I felt present in my own life.

I knew I didn’t want it back. I knew, deep down, that something in me didn’t tolerate it well anymore. And yet, when I tried to explain this to health professionals, I was met with disbelief. “That’s not possible,” some said. “It’s local—it doesn’t affect mood.” I was left feeling gaslighted, as though my lived experience didn’t count because it didn’t fit the textbook.  But I started digging. And I found out that mood-related side effects from progestogens do happen—in about five percent of people. That’s what’s reported. I suspect it’s higher. Many people, like me, don’t make the connection, or are told not to. They’re tired, low, unmotivated—and they’re told it’s just life. Just stress. Just aging. Not the hormone-releasing device they’ve been told is harmless.

I’m not against the Mirena. It helped me when I was younger. But I do wonder if my tolerance for progestogens changed as I entered my 40s. Maybe it was perimenopause. Maybe it was cumulative. Maybe my body just had enough. Whatever the reason, I know what it felt like to come back to life when it was gone.

I want others to know this. To try what’s offered—but to listen to their own experience above all. If something doesn’t feel right, if the light in you feels dimmed, you are allowed to question it. You’re allowed to take it out.



What’s best isn’t always what’s best for you—and only you can know the difference.

For more information about progesterone intolerance, written by Dr Louise Newson.