OK, here is the story....I have a Merina IUD - put in about 2 months post-partum (7 months ago) - I am a nursing mother, no period since baby born.

I just broke out in a terrible acne-like rash all over my face....it has been there for 2 weeks and I have been to several doctors - to no avail.

They say it is not related to the Merina, any ideas?

-please help

I think Mirena releases progestin? That can aggravate acne, but since you've had it for 7 months it probably isn't the problem. Maybe you are about to get your period again. If it doesn't go away I'd ask for a topical to help.

I'm not sure since your doctors haven't mentioned it, but, especially because you are describing it as a rash rather that just acne, it might be rosacea. {removed}

nope, not rosacea

you think I should go to an allergist?

you are right - it does not make sense that this is from the iud - since I had it put in 7 months ago and did not have any problems....but I am at my wits end - I cannot even go out in public it is so embarassing - I do not know what to do

Have you tried a dermatologist? You shouldn't have to put up with it if its bothering you that much.

yep - I went to 2 seperate dermatologists last week.

they said it is either - stress related acne, or relted to my nursing (maybe I'm getting my period?!?) - but I never had this before - this is my 6th child! - could be from the iud, I guess, but my ob does not think so - he did blood work last week too - estrogen was low - but everything else was normal.

I NEED TO GET RID OF THIS!!

I think erythromycin might be safe while breastfeeding. Maybe you could ask for that?

I have the Mireana IUD and I was told and also read that acne is a major side effect. I have had my IUD since July and I just started to have acne problems-not bad-but definitely totally out of the norm for me.

hormone levels can change after having a baby (congrats by the way :) ). I use a topical lotion b/c I got adult acne when I turned 24 (also had a lot of stress). It is called: Sulfa sodiumcetamide 10% sulfa 5%. It really cleared up the cysts I was getting as well as made my face very clear. I get the occasional zit, but usually when I should be having my period (I don't cause I am on depo). It isn't expensive, so you can give it a try and see if it works for you. It is in a green and white tube and I only pay a 10$ copay. See if your doc will prescribe this for you.