C.Q.
I had the Paraguard IUD for many years before I had my 2nd baby because I like the fact that it had no hormones. But... I hated that it made my bleeding really heavy and my cramping as intense as labor pains. Not everyone has those side effects but I did and I've heard many have.
After I had my second baby I immediately learned back toward the paraguard because I really had trouble with hormonal birth control methods before I had my kids.
But, because of my heavy flow and hoorible cramping I was really urged by my doctor to try MIrena, the hormonal IUD. After talking for a while about the possible side effects like lower sex drive (which is not common), irregular periods, and all the other normal ones, she told me that mirena reduces the risk of uterine cancer, (which runs in my family) and will make my periods stop after a year.
I though. COOL!!! I havent had a period all this time anyways so how cool would that be!!! She said it would prevent cramping, which it has, and now my daughter is 5 months old and though I have had pretty irritating but light spotting off and on since I got it 3 months ago, its nothing compared to the times when I was going through a tampon every half hour and cramping so bad I needed vicoden just to get through it.
As hesitant as I was, I really like the Mirena and REALLY love not having to worry about a pill, a ring, a patch, or a period.
hope this helps!
And remember..... I always appreciate advice from other parents but I believe that you always need to remember what is ultimately right for you as a parent. Consider the advice, but take it grain of salt, and use your knowledge to decide the right course of action for you. Even if everyone else doesn't agree with you. ;)
Good luck!