Hi moms, I'm 12 weeks pp and really would like to find a bc method that is hormone-free, yet convenient, safe and reversable. My midwife recommended Paraguardm which is a copper IUD. She assured me they've come a long way (my aunt had a uterine preforation from one but it was almost 30 yrs ago) and many women are really happy with them. I know nothing is perfect, so I'd really like to hear if you've had any experience - good, bad, or ugly!
PS: She also assured me that it is not an abortifacient - it actually prevents conception.
I opted for Paraguard because of the non-hormone part and because it lasts for 10yrs. I've had it 3yrs and zero complaints. I didn't not know about taking motrin before the procedure and was miserable with cervical cramps that night, chasing the pain with motrin later. The cramps lessened each day and were gone by 4th day. My periods have been no heavier than when I wasn't on the pill. Good luck!
I almost did the Paraguard, but instead I did the Mirena IUD, I had cousin that did the Paraguard and it caused bad cramping to where she had to take it out. I absolutely love the Mirena, I don't have periods, and its the only birth control that doesn't get me sick, I tried the patch, and I got real sick, pills do the same for me. I have two children, and that is all I want for now, because of how sick I get when I get pregnant I think its called Hyperemesis its to the point I had to have a pick line in both pregnancy's and couldn't hold down food or water. I have a friend and cousin who also has the Mirena and they love it as much as I do. I have had no side effects on the Mirena at all. And this is my second one they only last 5 years.
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N. F
I had Mirena inserted after my son was born, my uterus perforated during insertion. So just because it is better now doesn't mean it's not still a risk! For what it's worth, my doctor said I was her first and only (this was 2 years ago) patient who had this happen, so unfortunately I'm just special. I won't do another IUD after my experience with them.
I was using this method for 2 years until I finally had it removed last year. Before even choosing this option,i did a lot of research and with it I decided to give it a try especially since I was worried about weight gain with the others that have hormones. Anyway,my experience with IUD wasn't pleasant. Sex hurt all the time to the point that it affected my sexlife. They said you may have menstrual cramps for a few months but mine lasted the entire 2 yrs. also,i know this is not proven,but i did gain weight and lost it after having it removed (non scientifically proven). Its different for everyone. Its worth the try though especially since you can always have it taken out
I've had mine for 8 1/2 years and I think it's wonderful. When I hit around the 9 year mark I'm getting a new one just because I don't want to test to see if it really is effective for 10 years :)
I've had absolutely no pain. In fact I can't even tell its in there. There was a tiny "pinch" when inserted, but no lingering pain that I can remember and no problems with excessive cramping.
My periods did seem to get heavier for the first full day of my cycle, but I don't know if that is blamed on the iud or just my body changing after having two kids and breast feeding them each almost two years.
My sister has one too and as far as I know also hasn't had any problems with it.
I honestly don't want something that would give me NO period. I'd be freaking out every month wondering if I was pregnant!
