Hi racjen,
I had my Mirena fitted 16 months ago. I've never had children and it wasn't as bad as I dreaded.
I took my hubby with, who waited for me in waiting room, and two paracetamol and two ibuprofen about 45 minutes before. Local wasn't offered and I didn't ask, so can't comment on that, but guess as DG said, an excellent option if available.
The doctor was lovely and she explained what was going to happen. It felt uncomfortable rather than painful, hard to describe but it ‘took my breath away' momentarily. It was all over in literally a couple of minutes and then she used a vaginal scan to check it's placement after giving me a few minutes. I did have the top lady at the clinic, and she had fitted about 12 that day, and I was nervous too.
I didn't have much cramping at all after and felt fine and hubby and I went out for dinner.
Thought I'd post something positive for you to read, we can scare ourselves witless with what we read on the internet. The Dr did say that many women who have had children don't feel a thing and I do know someone who didn't feel anything with all three of her Mirenas.
All the best and I hope it all goes well for you xx