Mirena.
It is the mutt’s nuts.
I’m now 9 months post insertion, which was under GA, when I had my laparoscopy, so I can’t comment on pain, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat for the difference it has made to my quality of life.
So far…6 days of spotting in the last 9 months, nothing else. I had a “period” two weeks ago which consisted of some clumsiness, followed 3 days later by spotting and some mild tummy cramps for 3 days. Nothing like my old endometriosis-related hellacious pain, and able to cope with just panty liners, not even needing the faithful old Mooncup! I even managed without painkillers, which is the first time since my periods started that I’ve done that.
I’m planning a removal sometime 2010 for baby making and a re-insertion 6 weeks after any delivery. This is the only type of contraception I ever want to use, and it is safe during breastfeeding and until menopause and beyond. This is me sorted for the next 25 years.
Now that I advise patients about contraception at work (I also insert
and remove IUCDs all the time), I really have to be careful not to talk up the Mirena too evengelically. It can be hard because I’ve had such a positive experience with it.
YMMV.
BTW, the British National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) now recommends Mirena as first-line treatment for any woman (not just those who have had previous pregnancies) with heavy periods who is not actively trying to conceive. That’s before even the pill.