Good post peri - some women don't get on with the Mirena and there do tend to be some side effects initially that can be a nuisance e.g. erratic bleeding, tummy cramps, slight sedative effect - but these usually settle within the first few weeks.
If you look under TREATMENTS at the top of this page, in the progesterone section, you will see the info on the Mirena.
As peri has said, the oestrogen patches can be good but pills or Oestrogel are also options. The plus of the Mirena tends to be that there are generally fewer progesterone side effects and most women find there is no bleeding or spotting after the first 3-6 months which can be a big plus.
jorainbow - do set yourself reasonable targets in regard to diet and exercise - if you try to do too much and can't maintain it, then you will feel a failure. peri is taking a very good approach.
I'm a great believer in Mindful Meditation and lots of brisk walking - and KEEP THINGS SIMPLE.
DG xxx