the patch was what i used before the mirena and it worked ok. i did have alot of clots when i would bleed but atleast i did not feel like this. i chose the mirena so i would not have to worry for 5 years and i have done nothing but since getting it. my doc made it sound like the best thing since sliced bread ya know. i tell everyone i know not to get the mirena because of what we have all experienced so yes getting the word out is important. because we have been test dummies for this stupid thing. without even choosing to be.