Paragard IUD

I've had Paragard for about a year now. It hurt when it was inserted, but that probably has something to do with when I got it (2 months after having my son). I think I was still a little tender in that area. At first I didn't have a period for a while because of nursing, but when I did, it was really heavy. I couldn't use tampons unless I changed them every hour, so I used overnight pads instead for the first couple days. I also had cramping and spotting in between periods. There were a few times I thought I was pregnant again because my cycle is all over the place, but that could also be because I am nursing, or because my body usually takes a while to get back to normal after having a baby.

The last two cycles have not been as heavy, and I was able to use tampons. My cycle is still all over the place, which is normal for me one year after giving birth. Once my body has gotten used to the IUD, I really like it. I like how I don't have to think about taking a pill every day or how the pill makes me feel pregnant all the time or having to keep back up birth control on hand in case I forget to take the pill. I also haven't really worried about being pregnant, except at first when I was getting used to it. I also like that I am using no hormones that may or may not interfere with nursing or my cycles. At first, I hated Paragard, but I gave it some time, and now I love it. Good luck with what ever you choose.

I've had Paragard since November. I am pleased with it, but I am still clinging to the hope that my periods will get lighter. They've always been heavy, but now they are insanely heavy...but seem to slowly be improving month to month. My biggest complaint is that I spot a lot more than I used to. I spot on and off for 3 days or so, then heavy, heavy flow for about 4 days, then spot again for another 5 days or so. It can be frustrating (or a great excuse - whichever way you like to look at it!! LOL).

Compared to oral contraceptives, the diaphragm, or condoms, I'd take Paragard any day. The whole procedure was painless...just slight cramping.

Hope this helps and isn't "too much info" ;)
A.

I had inserted last August, same reasons as you. At first I loved it, thought it was great. But it seems the longer it's been there the more spotting I've had. I thought it was supposed to spot in the beginning then get better over time, but it's kind of been the opposite for me. As well as my periods have been a LOT heavier than they were before. I've been tempted to have removed, but don't know what I'd use instead as I prefer it to be hormonal free.

E.; depends on what you feel is right most feel any birth control is right but if you do your research you find IUD's can be abortive, depends when you feel life begins, just something to consider if you feel strongly about it, life is so hard and full of challenges, the important things in life are to be happy , so do what you can do to find that happiness, and may you have a wonderful day , D. s

I've had it for three years now and LOVE IT. You'll be a little crampy after the insertion, but that only is for a couple days and your doctor should give you some pills for pain if you ask.

I had paragard inserted while breastfeeding as well and had it removed six months later. I was spotting for over three months straight and was exhausted (I think from the constant bleeding.) Once it was removed, I felt so much better. For me, it just wasn't the right choice at the right time and I am not sure if I would ever try it again. I think it just takes some time (longer than I liked) to adjust to your body, so if you are willing to trudge through the beginning stuff, it might work perfect for you...no worry about daily pills, etc. Good luck in your decision!