I had it inserted after my second child (she is now 3-1/2). It took 6 months to NOT feel it anymore. I have not had my period. However, at the time of the month, I get all the side effects. Is it b/c my body doesn't release the blood? Twice I have felt tht thing poking me to the point where I could hardly walk. I have a pooch which won't go away, headaches, dizziness, ab pain off and on to the point where I bend over to feel better. I am making an appt to take this dumb thing out. It is not worth it. My breasts get extremely tender too. And sometimes during sex, it pokes me and hurts. Its not worth it. All of you have confirmed it.