At the time the Mirena needed changing I was a advised to try a break to see how I got on which I thought was a good idea. However after a year without systemic HRT I thought I should try HRT again. I sort advice from a private specialist gynae and having read all the praise for Utrogestan I thought this would be ideal.
I have now been without systemic HRT for over 4 months and coping reasonably well - if I weren't, then I would be back to have another Mirena.
The NHS and NICE guidelines on the safe use of any HRT are very clear and to experiment can and does have consequences.
Having experimented with Utrogestan myself - tried sequi, conti, long cycle, low dose, I even tried it vaginally and actually felt worse, I also got horrid burning around my vaginal area as well.
I really must caution everyone that experimenting can lead to many problems and must only be done under the supervision of a gynae - I spent a lot of money getting excellent advice from this gynae but with no positive results regarding Utrogestan. To get the type of specialist gynae support needed to experiment safely with Utrogestan or any HRT, then one will probably have to go privately and not everyone can afford this - it is VERY, VERY EXPENSIVE. I'm glad I had the support and guidance of this excellent gynae and it has helped me to where I am now.
My gynae told me that most women can tolerate any form of progesterone really well. The Mirena is a favourite option for many gynaes as it can sort out many problems such as progesterone sensitivity and problematic bleeding.
I also think it is unrealistic to expect to feel good every day - most women get ups and downs through the natural menstrual cycle so we should expect to get this on HRT - poor Mary G is an extreme case of progesterone intolerance.
Dawncam - you are not happy using Utrogestan and you are not alone feeling this, so perhaps give the Mirena a go. The Mirena can give some side effects initially but this quickly settles - good luck. DG x