[Brandye]

OK, some disloyalty to the NHS here. You are one of the reasons Gordon Brown is promising a more "personal" NHS.

Get to a decent doctor who is willing to work with you and include you in the decision process. Some of your friends have encountered them in the NHS but if this means spending a few quid on a private clinic, do it. It will be cheaper, and you will be more comfortable, in the long term.

Many doctors do not recommend IUDs for non-parous (no children) women. So there is something behind what you have been told. Other doctors see no problem. Given your history with the shot, the implant needs serious thought. The doctor was correct that the ring is not in the NHS formulary but it can be gotten rather easily. You do pay for it. There are other IUD besides Mirena. This needs all to be discussed with a doctor who is willing to consider your situation.