Please Note: Feel free to add comments for others, however, I am no longer personally responding to comments on this post.
I have never liked birth control pills. For one thing, they make me nauseous. Because of this, I took to taking my pill at night. Because of that, several times a week, FOR YEARS, I would have to get back out of bed to go take my pill. Or I would take two the next day. Not good for *several* reasons. One of which was even worse nausea.
Then there's the fact that when I'm on the pill, I often don't get my period. This is considered a plus, and believe me, it has its obvious benefits for sure. Unfortunately, it also completely removes the monthly confirmation that you are indeed, not pregnant. I'm pro-choice, but I'm also pro being on top of these things so that they can be taken care of promptly if that's your choice. No period equaled a home pregnancy test every few months, FOR YEARS.
And they're a monthly expense by themselves.
But most important to me, the idea of taking hormones every day really rather bothers me. I went off birth control pills twice in my life. Both times I can only describe it as having a dampener lifted off me that I wasn't even aware was there. Everything felt a little sharper.
It felt like, when I was on the pill, the angst of PMS was spread out bit by bit throughout the month. So that, I never had PMS when I was on the pill, but I never felt as good - as clear - as I do most of the time without it. It was always a huge relief to not be taking them.
This last time was soon after I moved to L.A. I think I knew I had a long life-adjustment phase coming, and one day, I simply wondered why I was taking them. I certainly wasn't having sex, and I wasn't in any position to deal with dating either. And I was broke. And I hated them. So I stopped.
This time, as the veil lifted, I realized, I didn't want to take birth control pills anymore. Ever. There had to be something else, and in the back of my mind, was a thought of getting an IUD. Which I researched on the Internet, reading websites and bulletin boards.
IUD is an intrauterine contraceptive device. It is a small T that is inserted into the uterus through the cervix by a doctor (it opens into a T after insertion). A microfiber string remains out of the cervix so that you can confirm that it is there and in place. You can't feel a thing unless you're trying to. The kind I have - the one on the right in this picture - is wrapped in copper and provides the most effective form of birth control, without hormones. Yes, it's more effective, and clearly more reliable than the pill. And it works for up to 10 years. Hormone free.
Lest the picture seem too rosy, it turned out that getting an IUD in America was a Herculean task for several reasons. Firstly, IUDs are not popular in the states because of a faulty IUD in the 70s, the Dalkon Shield, which caused several deaths. Basically, IUDs have a bad rap in our collective memory. And because they're not popular, finding a doctor that carries them and does the insertion is a bit of a trick. It was covered by my insurance (completely), but I had to find a doctor who wouldn't charge me up front because he had them in stock already. But now, my birth control is in place, and my monthly expense is $0.
In addition to that, there is a serious concern if you engage in unsafe sex. Because the IUD goes into the uterus with a string that hangs out the cervix, if you get an STD, the chance of pelvic infection increases greatly. The cervix ceases to be a natural barrier. And a pelvic infection can mean that you can't have children. Because of this, doctors in the United States adher to guidelines that IUDs are not recommended for single women, or women who have never had children and would like to. If you engage in unsafe sex - ever - an IUD is not a viable choice for you.
It's hard to argue with doctors about this concern. It's true, and it's serious. I had to be firm that I - a single woman who had never had a child - wanted an IUD, and I wasn't taking no for an answer. I don't engage in unsafe sex, but being cheated on definitely enforced their concern and made me feel like a fool for how confident I'd been when insisting on it. I didn't do anything wrong - in fact, I did everything "right" - and there I was, waiting to find out if one lying man had left me sterile.
It was life-shaking. But I still knew the IUD was the right choice for me. Even though I'm not having sex at the moment, it's something I like knowing is there. Decided. Covered. My choice.
One great thing about it is that if I decide I want to have children, I can go to the doctor and get it taken out and could potentially get pregnant that night. There's nothing that has to leave my system. There's nothing in my system that could harm a baby or me. I like that.
Also, removal is - I hear - much less invasive than the insertion.
The insertion - which I thought would be a breeze - was a little taste of giving birth. The doctor opens the cervix for a split second, the IUD goes in, and although many woman (particularly if they've given birth) feel nothing, I felt the single most exucrutiating pain of my life. And then I was horribly cramped for the next 24 hours. Like I could only lay in bed and groan, and I REALLY should have had someone there to drive me home. I had thought I was going to make my salsa lesson that night! Not so much.
It takes three months for your body to adjust and accept the IUD. It's hard to imagine, but it is particularly susceptible to falling out during this time. I also had THE WORSE PERIODS OF MY ENTIRE LIFE. And my skin went crazy. It was like puberty on crack. For months after I had really bad periods (definition of careful what you wish for), and I thought that they would simply be like that forever, but coming up on one year, I can now report a complete absence of any monthly cramping. Though I am still having a very "healthy" cycle to be sure. And I get PMS, usually one to two days a month, although sometimes it's worse, and then the next month, no PMS. I'm pretty good at telling that that's why I feel crappy, and I just try to lay low if I can. Or I just work through it. The PMS is really a function of not being on the pill, though, as opposed to being a result of the IUD.
And once, the month that I got the IUD, I had a small uterine contraction during yoga class. Yeah, that was disconcerting! But apparently, just my body adjusting and perfectly normal.
I'm sharing this, because I think that IUDs are a really great form of birth control. I went through a lot to get to this point, but I now have a method of birth control in place that effects me not one bit and costs me not one cent and lasts for years until I choose to have it removed. It's not for everyone, but it is an option. A good one.
If you have any questions I can answer about my IUD experience, I am available to you. If you live in Los Angeles, and you're looking for a doctor, I know a great one in Glendale. Simply e-mail me.
UPDATE - I've started an IUD FAQ here.
Tag: iud, birth control
Ahhhh. Here I am, menopausal but nostalgic for birth control. I had an IUD, a 'CU-7'; indeed, a device shaped like the number 7 and tipped with copper. Unfortunately it did not work well for me, but my friends did well with it. For years.
Also, thanks for telling it like it is about your IUD insertion. Mine hurt like a hot poker and then an hour later I had to get on a crowded San Francisco bus for home. The ride from the depths of hell.
And now I'm just a slave to my frequent hot flashes. I do save a bundle on heavy winter clothing.
Posted by: GraceD | August 03, 2005 at 04:24 PM
Hi again, thanks for hanging out with me at blogher!
I also had an IUD, and it did hurt going in, that's for sure. I got pregnant while using mine, but that was probably mostly karma for my mom concieving me while using one in 1969/70. My ob/gyn at the time had a huge practice and I was the only patient she'd ever had it fail on. (yeah, that would be me!)
So, perhaps when you are ovulating you might want to add a spermicide. Or ask your doc. But, yeah, the pill is evil!
Posted by: Jen | August 04, 2005 at 12:19 AM
Wow! How lucky that you were on the front page of BlogHer -- I've been trying to get an IUD for a while now, and just might have my chance this week. I'm hoping for the Mirena, because I'm willing to put up with slight amounts of progesterone in exchange for less period. My problems are a few -- firstly, I have to drive a small distance to get the Mirena instead of the Paragard. Also, I don't have insurance, but Medicaid covers birth control in my state, so I had to wait two months (!!) for my Medicaid application to go through (it just did, and I found that for some reason it's only approved until 2/28 -- yikes). Finally, I have a really irregular cycle, so it's hard to know when to make the appointment.
Until now. Everything seems to be falling into place: I got my Medicaid information on Friday, and I had my pap smear results transferred to the clinic I hope to go to last week. Today, I got my period. I'm calling first thing tomorrow morning to try and make an appointment before this damn thing goes away, since it's like the stars are all aligned and THIS WEEK IS THE WEEK. I think this is the only time in my life I've been praying that my period lasts as long as possible ;)
Anyway, I'm interpreting your post randomly showing up on my computer screen as a sign from the heavens. Thanks for the excellent and comprehensive information!
Posted by: Alexandra | February 13, 2006 at 06:02 PM
Mirena insertion was the equivalent of having Rosemary's Baby! I passed out on the table and when I woke up, I vomited all over the doctor's student apprentice. (Totally embarrasing since my GYN is a hottie and I've been seeing him for 9 years, but nothing compared to puking all over the place.) I have a pretty high tolerance to pain, but this was unreal. For the next 2 days I thought the thing was trying to crawl back out, through my pelvic muscles! Worse than any cramps ever. (I wonder if that's what childbirth feels like?) My hair also started falling out and I gained 20 lbs. in 4 months. Cravings constantly! Doc didn't tell me that! One night I was cramping so bad (cramped continuosly for 4 months) I just took the thing out myself. Hurt for 2 seconds, and wala! No more cramps! I made an appt. with the Dr. to make sure everything inside was okay and to get and RX for the pill, and he said severe cramping, spotting, weight gain, hair loss, moodiness, and acne is perfectly normal for Mirena. Gee, thanks Doc.
Posted by: Julian | February 22, 2006 at 12:48 PM
OMG Julian!!!
YOU PULLED IT OUT YOURSELF!!! That was risky!
I'm sorry you had such a hard time with it. :( My experience was nowhere near that. Insertion was painful, but I felt much better by the very next morning, and although my periods were bad for a while, the rest of the time was fine.
I think your doctor should have been more responsive, maybe? I had a follow-up right away, and they made sure I was doing OK right from insertion.
Posted by: Liz | February 22, 2006 at 01:35 PM
I have had my mirena for 2 years. My experience was worth it. It hurt during insertion but not as bad as labor hahhaha
My periods are great no longer than 3 days but this month i am sick to my stomach, i cannot hold my bladder, i am very moody. i am going to see my Dr. But what are the chances of getting pregnant after 2 years? I thought that it was in the beginning. I surely hope I am not but if I am then I hopes it is a boy seeing as to how I have 3 beautiful daughters. Do you know anyone who has gotten pregnant after having the iud for a few years?
Posted by: mandy mother of 3 | March 06, 2006 at 01:31 PM
I don't know anyone who's gotten pregnant with an IUD, but I do know it is possible.
Posted by: Liz | March 08, 2006 at 04:37 PM
I was just reminded of something: what are the chances of an ectopic or other odd pregnancy with an IUD? Pills should provide some extra protection on that score, though maybe not much.
Posted by: Bill T | March 20, 2006 at 09:03 PM
Hi Bill,
Yes, *if* you do get pregnant when you have an IUD, there is an increased chance of an ectopic pregnancy. Of course, it's also the most effective form of birth control.
Posted by: Liz | March 21, 2006 at 10:08 PM
Wow! Im having the mirena inserted tomorrow, and you guys have scared the begeeses out of me! I gave birth 9 weeks ago, so I hope it doesnt hurt as bad for me! wish me luck, and im suposed to go to work after. My doctor said it wont hurt!
Posted by: Tara | March 28, 2006 at 05:14 PM
Hello Tara,
Don't worry, if you've just had a child it should go right in. You probably won't even feel it. It's way different after pregnancy!!!
Good luck,
Liz
Posted by: Liz | March 28, 2006 at 05:38 PM
It's Tara here, well I had my IUD inserted yesterday, and just to let you all know, it was a breese! maybe it was due to having a baby 9 weeks ago, but the part that hurt the most was the spectulm going in, and if you've ever had a Pap, you know that doesnt even hurt! I had 2 small contractions when she inserted it in my uterus, but trust me comparing it to child birth isn't even right!
Posted by: Tara | March 30, 2006 at 05:19 PM
I have the IUD five year one. and i have had it for 20months and is it possible to get pregnant being on it.
Posted by: brandie | May 12, 2006 at 05:55 AM
Hi Brandie,
There is a small chance of getting pregnant with an IUD, although it is the most effective form of birth control. That said, if you suspect that you are pregnant, it's important to see a doctor right away, as the risk of a tubal pregnancy is increased and must be addressed immediately.
Posted by: Liz | May 16, 2006 at 07:44 PM
I just wanted to say that I've had a copper IUD for 8 years and love it!
I got it inserted in 1998 after I found my then-husband, now ex-husband, flushing a weeks worth of birth control pills away, hoping I wouldn't notice and I'd get pregnant. I was lucky, when I went to my GYN to explain the problem and find a solution, she suggested the IUD - and it had a side benefit of not having hormones (I was reacting badly to them). I had it inserted that very day. One thing I have to say about the IUD - it's tough to tamper with it without the user's full knowledge!
I did not fit the normal "guidelines" that most doctors have for IUD users, however, those guidelines aren't set by the FDA, but the doctors themselves. I didn't (and still don't) have children, I'd never had a pregnancy, and I was just 25. But, it's one of the few reliable methods of birth control, it's pretty much tamper-proof, doesn't have hormones (if you choose the copper one) and doesn't have any latex (I'm allergic). I'm glad my GYN was so open-minded and knowledgable. She was an IUD user, as well.
Me catching him tampering with my pills was the first step in a long list before I left in 00. I got married in 02, to a great and fantastic man. While other IUD users I know complain about checking the string, he and I have made it a monthly "play date", as we believe birth control isn't the sole responsibility of one, but both partners of marriage.
I love my copper IUD. I've met a lot of resistance to them in the 8 years I've had mine. After visiting 6 different GYNs in AZ, I finally found one that didn't insist I have it removed immediately. Once, on my first visit to my new primary care doc, she told me she wouldn't treat me until I had it removed. And the doc was a woman! I realize the Dalkon Sheild has poisoned many minds against the IUD, but it's been 20 years! With all the technological advances, can't doctors educate themselves and learn that advances have been made?
Since it's good for 10 years, I'm starting the search for a doc here in MD that will insert the Paraguard, the copper IUD, in 07 when my time is up.
Good luck to me... and to all others that are thinking about getting an IUD, here's a great informative, up-to-date site:
http://www.plannedparenthood.org/pp2/portal/medicalinfo/birthcontrol/pub-contraception-iud.xml
Posted by: Michelle | June 08, 2006 at 07:12 AM
Michelle,
What a ridiculous struggle you've had. Sigh.
Particularly when they want to insist on removal. That happened to me after I was cheated on and had to see the other doctor in my office for emergency blood tests, when my doctor was out of town. She wanted to take it out, and I had the strongest fear that someone would just remove it while they were getting all the samples they needed. It definitely added to my sense of violation.
She made me sign a paper that I had refused to remove it against doctor recommendation.
I just went for my annual, and my doctor was like, "What's this?" when he saw the paper. When I told him, he was like, "phfft." He shook his head and told me that it was fine.
Posted by: Liz | June 08, 2006 at 07:50 AM
Thanks soooo much to everyone who posted such good info. I am giving birth in seven weeks and I too will have an IUD inserted. Thanks to all of the truthful females!! I feel this type of info is vital good or bad. Glad most reports were good.
Posted by: Geri | June 20, 2006 at 01:21 PM
I am glad I came across this. I went to have my copper IUD inserted today. A resident Doc was doing it at first and could on get to a "6" measurement so the main Doc stepped in. The resident was causing me a little cramping but nothing I couldn't handle. I've had two kids and a D&C from a miscarriage. Both my kids were C-sections though. Anyway, the main Doc caused WAY more cramping and all the sudden a horrible sharp pain. They perforated my uterus! Now that crap hurts! Had they not done that, I think the pain of the regular IUD insertion would have been manageable. Anway they didn't put it in today due to that and I'm supposed t go back next week. Trying to decide if I want to show up for the appointment. I'm freaked out now.
Posted by: Katherine Parker | August 01, 2006 at 10:15 PM
Katherine, I'm so sorry that happened! I have to say, your doctors sound like idiots, but perhaps there was some valid reason your insertion was so difficult. I've never had children, yet my doctor simply dilated my cervex and slipped it right in.
Were you getting a Mirena? Last time I heard about a difficult insertion it was a Mirena IUD, not Paraguard.
Posted by: Liz | August 02, 2006 at 08:12 AM
I am thinking about the IUD but hearing these stories scare me. I have a high tolerance for pain (I have 6 tattoos) but it still sounds so freaken scary. IF you take pain killers will it help with the insertion process?
Posted by: Ann | August 06, 2006 at 08:03 AM
Here is my story with the paragard.
I started the Depo Provera shot on August 2005 and by April 7 2006 I had gained 20 lbs. I was on the pill before that and it didn’t work. I tried Ortho tri cyclen, Desogen, Mircette, Yasmin.. so many. I decided hormones were definitely not for me. At the time, I was working at Planned Parenthood and asked one of the ARNP what types of non hormonal birth control was out there. From the ones that she told me the IUD was the only one I liked the most. At the beginning she didn’t want to insert it because I was only 21 and never had children. But I convinced one of the ARNP to do it. Since I worked there I had a discount.
On April 8 I got it in. It was a nightmare. I thought it was going to be easy but it wasn’t. I felt like I was giving birth. Not only that but since I was getting off the Depo Provera shot I started bleeding a lot. I tried to regulate my period with pills but it didn’t stop the bleeding. I bleed for 3 months and the cramps were horrible. I finally got my first normal period. Let me tell you that I love the IUD and wouldn’t change it for anything. I went through 3 months of pain but it was because I was bleeding everyday as a consequence of leaving the shot.
Now I feel stable, I feel that I control my body not the hormones. I love it! It feels great!
I strongly recommended. It is peace of mind! You don’t have to remember to make an appointment for the shot or to buy the pills or to take something everyday.
I have lost 12lbs and counting since I left hormonal birth control.
Posted by: Nana | August 07, 2006 at 11:56 AM
I am interested in getting an IUD, but am very confused as to which one to get. I just had a baby about a month ago and was very excited to hear about the IUD cause I have always had trouble remembering to take the pill. I figure this would be good for me. Having a 4 year old and a newborn I know I would definetly not remember to take the pill this time everyday. But after reading so many things on these im not sure which one to get if any. I was looking more towards the mirena one cause I liked the thought of the short light menstrual cycles , but I have read a ton of bad stuff about it like that it causes hair loss, weight gain, back, leg and joint pains, really bad mood swings, loss of sex drive, etc. So now I am checking out the copper one and havent really found anything bad about that one yet. The only thing I didn't like was the longer heavier periods. Any comments or suggestions?
Posted by: Debbie | August 08, 2006 at 06:10 PM
Ann, Talk to your doctor about painkillers. My thought is yes, and I do believe they told me to take a couple Tylenol before I went in.
Debbie, I love the copper IUD, but I do have a full 7 day period. I wish it were at least a few days shorter, to be sure. No hormones was the whole point for me, so that was my choice. I wanted to get my period and have a normal cycle.
Nana, I'm sorry you had such a rough transition! That sounds worse than most - definitely worse than mine. You do echo a sentiment I hear a lot, though, and feel myself. What was three to six months of adjustment when we're talking about ten years of worry-free protection with no hormones and easy removal if you decide you want children?
For me, I feel like it was totally worth it!
Posted by: Liz | August 09, 2006 at 09:14 PM
I am contemplating getting an IUD in the next couple weeks. My doc is against it since I haven't had kids but I am determined. I was using the Nuva Ring which did major damage to my skin and have also used Yasmin which had way too many hormones. I am thinking of using Mirena instead of ParaGard...any comments? My doc said that using Mirena will make the cramping less and the periods lighter to non-existant. I am nervous now having read the above message regarding hair loss and weight gain. The pamplet doesn't say anything about either of these side affects. I can handle taking the pill every day, I just can't handle the weight gain! Maybe I should hold off on the IUD and try another pill first...any recommendations? Moodiness and weight gain are my two main concerns...
help!
Posted by: Amber | August 15, 2006 at 10:48 AM
Hi Amber,
You know, I'd maybe try a more IUD-pro doctor first. I can't really speak too knowledgably about the Mirena, because it's not the kind I have. I do have a friend who has one, and we've not talked about it recently, but I can confirm she still has hair and is skinny as ever!
Mirena is likely going to feel like taking the pill because it's hormones like the pill, but you don't have to remember to take it, right? So I'd say, go for it. It's the same as trying a new pill except if it works out, yeah, IUD! And if it's a disaster, it's easy to remove, unlike Depo shots, for example, that you have to ride out if you have a bad reaction.
Good luck!
Posted by: Liz | August 16, 2006 at 09:52 PM
I have a question for those of you with a copper IUD. Since having mine put in Jan 2006, and stopping nursing a new baby, I have had only one period. I have to admit it was the heaviest period of my life! Does this taper off or are they always going to be this heavy?
Posted by: Steph | August 20, 2006 at 06:39 PM
I had a copper IUD inserted about two months ago. I love it! I had similar experiences to some of the other ladies above. Insertion was painful (a short sharp pain) and I had horrible cramps for about 4 days after. Luckily I didn't have doctors discouraging me from getting one. I'm living in South Korea where they are extremely common. I'm told that IUD's are one of the most common forms of birth control in Asia! My period was about 3 weeks late in the first month, which had me and my fiance extremely worried as you can imagine. All was fine though. I went back to the doctor twice to make sure it was in the correct position - this is routine here. Once a few days after insertion and then after my first period. My cramps are worse, but I'm hoping they go away as time goes on. The length of my period is the same (though I hear for many women it gets heavier). The doctor said that I should get it checked annually, but other than that it should be fine. It's really comforting to know that there are no hormones in my body. My only concern now is that I have to go back to using tampons and pads as opposed to the Keeper (which I also love). I have heard that it's not supposed to affect the IUD position, but until I can discuss it more thoroughly with a native English speaking doctor I'm going to avoid it - it's not worth the risk. I also love (as does my fiance) not having to use condoms, which trigger yeast infections!!
I would recommend a copper IUD to all women who want a safe form of birth control without the hormones. My aunt used one before, between and after her two pregnancies (in the 1970's) and highly recommends them as well! She says the technology even in the years she used them has made the IUD's better and she never had a problem with them.
I hope more women spread the word about this great invention. It's simply another example of how nature provides us with everything we need.
Best,
Tab
Posted by: Tab | August 20, 2006 at 06:45 PM
Answered Steph directly, but forgot to post it here - basically, suggested she speak to her doctor if she's only had one period.
Also: With an IUD it is EXTREMELY important to see your doctor if you skip a period as you may have a tubal pregnancy which must be dealt with immediately.
Tab - totally identify with the tampon fear! I used pads for the first few months, which was so horrible I finally had to go to tampons - and I've never had a problem, not one, not even close. I continue to be careful when I remove them, but it's never been a problem.
Posted by: Liz | August 23, 2006 at 05:54 PM
I had my mirena inserted on 8/17. That day the cramping was horrible and then it got better the next day. On the morning of 8/20 i woke up having horrible cramps on the right side of my abdomen, i assumed it was part of the experience. The cramps faded and now i only have cramps in the morning or when my bladder's full. I was worried about infection, so i saw my doctor this morning, she said everything looked fine. So my question is, does the cramping ever just stop and how bad is this acne thing?
Posted by: Tracey | August 24, 2006 at 01:08 PM
Well I just found out today that I am indeed pregnant! I currently had the Paraguard which was inserted a year in a half ago. I got the IUD 6 months after my daughter was born. I can NOT believe I am pregnant. I am not sure the status of the pregnancy yet... my OBGYN had me take a blood test to check my Hormone levels and I will meet with him tomorrow however they make is sound as if it has to be a tubal pregnancy or that I will miscarriage. This is by far a diffucult situation. I also read even if things seem well there is a higher risk for birth defects. I will post more when I get results tomorrow.
Posted by: Tish | August 29, 2006 at 07:45 PM
Tracey,
The acne thing was bad for me, but it varies person to person, you know? My cramping got better and the acne went away within a few months. And at a year, the cramping completely disappeared. Also, my period stabilized at 7 days like clockwork, although it was early last month. So no relief in the length, except that it was 10 days for the first few months, so 7 is better than that!!!
Tish, I would love for you to post an update! I think it must be that you will miscarry or require surgery if it *is* tubal. If it is a regular pregnancy, I believe they just leave the IUD in and monitor. Life and surprises, eh?
Posted by: Liz | August 30, 2006 at 02:26 PM
Well I am in a bit of disbelief... I had an ultra sound today which confirmed I am 6 wks pregnant, and they baby is in the womb.
I guess somewhere along the way my Paraguard slipped out of the uterus and is now sitting in my cervic! I guess this is more common then you think it is. The chances are even higher after you have vaginal births... shocking enough for me I had c-sections with both of my children. I find this a little upsetting considering the fact that I faithfully check my strings and they are still inplace. I am having the IUD removed tomorrow and the risk of any serious problems is very low considering the fact that the IUD is so low. As much as it is a relief I am still upset over that fact that I thought I had the best birth contol method and the fact that I had no idea there was a problem. I think it's a great method but atleast when you use other methods you have more of an idea that you missed a pill or were late getting a shot.
Well I am going to continue the prenancy and have 3 kids now ahhh... lol! When this one is delivered and I making sure those tubes are tied.
Posted by: Tish | August 30, 2006 at 08:23 PM
So my cramps for the most part have subsided unless i have a really full bladder. Then at which point i can relieve the pain. I am really iffy about feeling for the strings. Right after my last check up, my doctor told me where to feel and when i got home i just couldn't do it. I am terrified that it's not in place. Any ideas on what i'm doing wrong? Also one day this week, 12 days after insertion i started my period, but after 14 hours it was gone. i asume it was just break through bleeding. Am i wrong?
Posted by: Tracey | September 01, 2006 at 10:33 AM
Hi Tish, It is stressful to get that surprise, I'm sure. The IUD is the most effective form of birth control, but yes, no method is 100%. I am curious if it is statistically less effective after pregnancy, I wonder if there's been a study?
Tracey, Don't panic! First of all, some break-through bleeding is normal in the first couple months. As for the string, I find it is hard to feel at certain times of the month, however, the way I check mine is to put my finger at the opening of the cervix where the string comes out. It's got to be there, you know? And then I can feel it between my finger and my cervix. Hope that helps! Hang in there, you *will* feel better.
Posted by: Liz | September 01, 2006 at 02:08 PM
Thanks for the reassurance. I think i felt the string. So my anxiety has settled. Thanks again.
Posted by: Tracey | September 06, 2006 at 08:16 AM
I Have had my the mirenea IUD for a week now, and its not bad at all. For the first 3 days I had bad cramps, but its ok so far. I'm really concerned about how my period is going to be, I guess its different for everyone.
Posted by: Tiffany | September 07, 2006 at 07:37 AM
The problem that I'm concerned about with IUD is I can't feel the string? Does that mean that its miss placed? I don't go see my doctor until 9/27. Maybe its because I have had it only for a week.
Posted by: Tiffany | September 07, 2006 at 07:42 AM
California women should watch for illegal IUDs.
Heard it on KPCC this moning and it is confirmed in the http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/california/la-me-iud10sep10,1,87681.story?coll=la-headlines-pe-california>LA Times and http://news.google.com/news?hl=en&ned=&q=iud&btnG=Search+News>other papers.
The LA times link will die after today unless you have an online subscription. But the others should be good for a while.
Posted by: Bill T | September 10, 2006 at 12:30 PM
I got an IUD a couple of months after my second child. I've never done any other birth control. It didn't hurt being inserted at all. Took less than 20 mintues.I had no cramping, no problems at all.I couldn't feel the string and husband couldn't either. One factor was that I had had two kids already which makes it easier for some. My menstrual cycles became extremely lighter and my severe pain that I normally have with my cycles were no more. I also spotted inbetween cycles.I kept it in for almost 3 years. Recently(four days ago) I had it removed because we are going to bring a third edition to the family.It took a few minutes to take it out and it didn't hurt.
Posted by: rell | September 12, 2006 at 02:53 PM
Hi, just wondering if anyone has ever had PID, because of having the IUD. Also wondering how long it took u to get pregnant after having Mirena removed. I'm attemptong to remove myself, have been waiting for OBGYN appt forever.
Posted by: Lilly | September 14, 2006 at 08:20 PM
okay first of all i am 20 years old with 2 kids already i have had an IUD in for about a year and a half. i went for my yearly back in June i was concerned that i still hadn't got my period, my doctor told me everyting was fine and that is was just the IUD so i thought nothing of it. well in august i started to feel like i was pregnat again so i called the doctor and sure enough i was i was almost 4 months along. what a suprise for me, and the doctor for that matter. I am really worried and so is the doctor because he cant take it out because of how far along i am the doctors in Toledo,OH wont even take it out. so i have a huge risk of going into early labor and at anytime. i just thought i would share my experience with everyone, and hope no one has to go threw what i am going threw
Posted by: Amber | September 16, 2006 at 10:59 PM
Hi Amber,
I am concerned by many things in your comment. First of all, when you told your doctor you hadn't had a period he should have given you a pregnancy test IMMEDIATELY. There is an increased risk of tubal pregnancy when you get pregnant with an IUD, and this endangers you if it occurs. So the fact that he didn't give you that test concerns me deeply.
As for the IUD staying in during pregnancy - another side effect of his not finding out you were pregnant earlier - it is standard practice to leave it in if it can't be removed safely. It may increase risk of miscarriage, but many babies are born without complications.
It is perhaps unfortunate that you became pregnant with an IUD, but it is 100% your doctor who screwed up back in June. Honestly, I am appalled that he blew you off and didn't give you a pregnancy test. If you had a tubal pregnancy and complications, I do believe you would have grounds to sue.
Posted by: Liz | September 17, 2006 at 09:39 AM
I love my IUD. I'm 24 with two kids and my husband was sick of my hormones with the depo. It hurt like crazy being put in. I had irregular periods for 5 months. I bleed heavy every 3 weeks 7-12days at a time. After that I was fine. Regular and less cramps. Scary at first, but definitly worth it. Especially if your not ready for a baby.(again!!)
Posted by: Amber | September 17, 2006 at 02:59 PM
hi its me again. there are alot of things the do concern me about everything that is going on. 1st is the fact that the IUD is still in thank god it is outside of the sac and not in with the baby. it still scares me though. another thing that scares me is the fact that i can and probly will go into labor early. if the baby does some how get harmed by the IUD, or me then i will be sueing the doctor for not doing anything back in June. im just glad that everything is going fine so far, but i am about as prepared for the worse as i can be.
Posted by: Amber | September 17, 2006 at 09:13 PM
Hang in there, Amber! (the pregnant Amber!)
Chances are, everything will be fine. Sending positive thoughts...
Posted by: Liz | September 17, 2006 at 09:17 PM
thanks Liz
and to everyone else i will keep u all posted on how things go for me
Posted by: Amber | September 17, 2006 at 09:26 PM
Will someone respond to me?
Posted by: Lily | September 18, 2006 at 09:27 AM
Hi Lily,
Sorry I missed your comment somehow. First off, DO NOT REMOVE YOUR IUD YOURSELF! OMG, that is not a good idea. It must be removed by a medical professional. Surely you wouldn't risk injuring yourself!
As for pregnancy after you've had a Mirena, I honestly have no idea. I know Mirena releases hormones, so I suspect you would want to allow a time for those to clear your system. With birth control pills, I know it's more than just *when* you can get pregnant after you go off them, it's also how long they take to totally clear your system.
There is increased risk of PID with an IUD, but I myself have not (thankfully) had any experience with that.
Posted by: Liz | September 18, 2006 at 11:51 AM
Thank you so much for getting back to me. I finally have OBGYN appt tomorrow. I'm going to have IUD removed, hopefully get pregnant awhile later. Also I can't even feel the strings of the IUD, I hope I'm not just going crazy!! Anyway thank so much agian
Lily
Posted by: Lily | September 19, 2006 at 06:48 PM
I went to get an IUD today, I was really excited. I've been off the pill for 2 1/2 years and my husband and I have been practicing Withdrawl during this time but wanted something more intimate/trustworthy. Well, it didn't work. My cervix was too short and they were afraid of expulsion (I have not had children). They even ultrasounded me but in the end (with 3 doctors in one intern all up in my stuff!) decided against it. They fussed for about 45 minutes-gave me 2 Ibuprofen tablets before and a shot inside for numbing. Honestly, felt cramping but certainly not terribly painful at all. I was worried after all the posts but it wasn't that bad. The shot stung a little and after half an hour I was over it but far from the pain I was expecting. Doctor is doing some research on case studies of the short cervix and calling my back in a week for the final decision. They did mention that there is a smaller one available to women in Canada who have not had children and it only costs $40.
Posted by: Heidi Powers | September 20, 2006 at 08:41 AM
I hate my IUD. I got it at Planned Parenthood.. and not only did it hurt more than ANYTHING being put it.. but I am experiencing debilitating cramps, and unbelievable hot/cold chills thing.. nausea.. and a headache. It's the worst. I am so close to ripping it out myself. I would not recommend it at all.
Posted by: IHATEMYIUD | September 22, 2006 at 12:36 AM
How long has it been? It sounds like you just got it. Surely ten years of birth control is worth a couple bad days???
Sorry you're feeling so icky. :(
Posted by: Liz | September 22, 2006 at 10:41 AM
For anyone who has just gotten and IUD give it up to 3 months for your body to except this intrution! The cramps were horrendous when I got mine. Ask your Doc. what kind of pain management you can do. I was taking tylenol and ibprofen on top of each other(Doc.s orders). After your body calms down you should be fine. If not ask your Doc. Your period on the IUD is heavier(not for everyone), cramping is a little more. That is normal.
Posted by: Amber | September 23, 2006 at 12:59 PM
i got my iud put in on the 21 of sept i am still bleeding well spotting and i would like to know how long it lasts and also i can not feel the strings and i bf will not look because of the blood afraid he will faint dr dont have a app for me untill nov
Posted by: kapri | September 27, 2006 at 12:16 AM
Hi Kapri,
I find that it is indeed more difficult to find the strings when you're bleeding. Something about that new, space-age string material.
I would suggest hanging in there a couple more days and then see if you're still spotting. If so, maybe give your doctor a call. In fact, if you're worried, you can call right now!
But don't panic. For me the whole area was sensitive for a while. Your body should adjust, it just takes time. Hang in there!
Posted by: Liz | September 27, 2006 at 08:14 AM
I had a little girl on 8/23 and my doctor asked me what kind of birth control I wanted, I said something that is hassle-free and something I wouldn't have to worry about taking everyday, so he said either Depo or IUD any suggestions?
Posted by: Amanda | October 04, 2006 at 04:20 PM
I am very curious after 2 years with my IUD. I am now pregnant. The doctor advised to immediately remove the IUD which may cause a miscarriage. My concern is what are the percentages of a child coming out normal. Whats the percentage of miscarrying? Am I jeopardizing my life? I did get confirmation It is not in my tubes its in my uterus. Any comments please.
Posted by: MICHELLE | October 06, 2006 at 10:11 AM
i would think that you would be fine, i know your not supposed to keep using birth control when your pregnant though, i was using the patch during my first pregnancy, but i had a miscarriage it would probably be a good idea to ask your doctor for more information other than the fact that you could have a miscarriage there is still a strong possibility that you wouldn't.
Posted by: amanda | October 06, 2006 at 01:02 PM
Hi. I had my first IUD for 1 year and got pregnant. I have 3 kids and live with my boyfriend. We decided not to have any more kids, so I got the shots in my butt to abort. (incidentally, I also very gently pulled out my own IUD bc I had such bad cramping.) They did not work at first, so I ended up taking pills as well. All in all it was about a two week process. I had a different kind of IUD put in right after. MY doc said it is from Sweden. It feels so uch better then the other one did. less cramping and I don't feel it inside me all of the time. But this morning I realized I cannot feel the string. Luckily I have a follow up tomorrow. I have to say my doc is amazing. He did not charge me for this IUD bc he felt so bad that I got pregnant. I really want this to work bc I will not take hormones and my boyfriend and I have a very active, healthy sex life. We are however being more careful now when I ovulate.
.
Posted by: Sarah | October 08, 2006 at 11:57 AM
thanks that helps alot though... i just have the one little girl and im really not in a hurry to have another one anytime soon. I absolutely love my baby but i dont think i could handle having another one especially since i found out that i had pre-eclampsia when i was pregnant with her and they told me that there was a 40 percent chance that it could happen again in my next pregnancy...so i hope to god that this IUD works when i get it done, Im having the minera one done sooooo its our last resort, we really couldn't handle another pregnancy just to find out that we could lose it you know? But i sure hope it works they said that it worked pretty good so i hope that it lasts the five years it said that its supposed to !!!!
Posted by: amanda | October 09, 2006 at 12:59 PM
I was fitted for an IUD after I had my 2nd child. I was informed that since I had already had children that this would be "safe". 5 months after I had the IUD inserted, something just didn't feel right so I went back to the doctor. He assured me that everything was fine and the IUD was still in place. 2 months later on New Year's Day no less, I was rushed in for emergency surgery as it was discovered that I had an ectopic pregnancy and it had ruptured. Death was only a few hours away for me as I had bled out for hours before this was discovered. I did recover after many blood transfussions and I lost my left tube. I had no idea I was pregnant as my doctor assured me everything was fine and I continued to have my usual menstrual cycles. I would NEVER recommend an IUD to anyone. I went on Depo for 8 years and loved it. I have tried pretty much every form of birth control (other than Norplant) and can say that Depo by far is the best & MOST reliable form of birth control out there today. Only drawback is if you are wanting to start a family in the near future, you should stop Depo at least 1 year prior first.
Posted by: Leaha | October 10, 2006 at 06:48 PM
Leaha,
I'm sorry that you had such a horrible experience with your IUD. Like many things, there are risks associated with IUD use, and clearly yours is the worse case scenario, particularly since you got your period while you had an ectopic pregnancy.
I personally had a friend who had to drop out of college for a semester because of Depo. Because it is a shot that last 3 months, if you have a complication you are basically screwed. The guidelines for Depo, at least when I looked at them many years ago, state that if depression runs in the family you should not take depo, but I personally asked an OB-GYN about that and had the concern completely brushed off as trivial. And yet I knew someone personally who had to drop all her classes.
What happened to you is horrible, and I'm so glad that you made it through OK, but the truth is, many things we do in life come with risks to be evaluated. I have considered the risks associated with the IUD and have chosen to get one.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Posted by: Liz | October 11, 2006 at 09:27 AM
I had my IUD fitted about 6 weeks ago and just started my 2nd pd on it. Other than the heavy bleeding (which was a little more than I'm used to) I have had none of the horror stories that I've read about. I went for my follow-up and my gyn told me that the threads have gone up into my cervix. He was able to check it by poking around inside my cervix (which was uncomfortable). I'm not feeling good about having it since I can't check it myself. I am seriously considering having it removed and getting a tubal which was my original plan. Does anyone have any advice or comments to share about my situation?
Posted by: ali | October 11, 2006 at 02:44 PM
I got my IUD inserted about 6 months ago. I have had the most horrible acne (makes teenage years look like a breeze), my hair is falling out more and have pelvic cramps every once in a while(no biggie). My major concern is the fact that sometimes after sex, I will bleed. Twice now it has been alot of blood but other than that, there is just a hint of blood. Has anyone else experienced anything like this? I would just go to the doctor but my insurance has been cancelled and I dont have the money to see a doctor. Regardless, I am so relieved that other women are experiencing bad acne problems and hair loss. I was starting to get really worried.
Posted by: Mary | October 13, 2006 at 02:40 PM
Update: I was going to call my gyn tomorrow about removing my IUD and getting another one with the strings cut longer. I decided to try checking it one more time today. Lo and behold, I could just barely feel the ends of my threads. So it is still in place after all. My threads were cut very short, so I guess that my best shot at checking is at the end of my pd when my cervix is in a lower position. Other than the heavy bleeding during my pd(which seems to last about two days) I haven't experienced any of the horror stories that I've seen posted. I've only had it for about seven weeks so I think I will try to stick with it a little while longer. ;-)
Posted by: ali | October 16, 2006 at 06:13 PM
i am having an iud inserted today and im scared so i dont know what to expect my doc hasnt even told me how their going to do it.....can i get a heads up on what to expect?
Posted by: amanda | October 23, 2006 at 10:41 PM
Hi Amanda,
I would recommend taking some Tylenol or something before your visit. And then talk to your doctor before the insertion about what to expect. It's almost exactly like a regular exam, but with one extra step. The doctor should talk you through it and it should take just a few moments to insert.
Good luck and deep breaths! :)
Posted by: Liz | October 24, 2006 at 12:22 AM
Mary, If you're having a lot of breakthrough bleeding, you really should check in with a doctor... maybe a walk-in clinic or a Planned Parenthood?
Posted by: Liz | October 24, 2006 at 12:24 AM
Thank you very much for the info i think that i will give the IUD another try hopefully the tissue goes away within the next month. It really hurts so I will take the tylenol. Thank you again, amanda
Posted by: amanda | October 24, 2006 at 10:14 PM
I have had a paraguard copper T for a year and a half now, and after the first few months I started having a very regular, heavy 7 day period. Now this month, on the October 24th I had my period but it was a lot lighter than usual and then it tapered down to nothing after 5 days and then a day later I'm having just a bit of light pink blood. The whole year and a half my period hadn't changed a bit and now this. What do you think it might be? Yes, I am sexually active and my significant other and I don't use any other forms of BC but we've both been tested for STD's. I use a veterans medical center and they usually make you wait a few months for an appointmene--and tell you to go to the ER if it's serious but I'm not sure I want to drive 120 miles because it may be nothing, but I'm a little worried right now. Any ideas?
Posted by: Jolene | October 31, 2006 at 08:11 AM
Hi Jolene,
Well, I would recommend giving your doctor's office a call and seeing what they thing, but I think perhaps you just had an abnormal period this month. I had something really stressful happening in October and I got my period two weeks early and it just went on and on, really light, like you say. It eventually (thankfully) stopped, so I'm hoping next month will be back to normal, although who knows WHEN it will come - back when it would have had October been normal or earlier now?
Yeah, I wasn't sure if I should call/go in either, but since it did come RIGHT after the really stressful day, I decided to chalk it up to that and wait and see how next month goes.
Posted by: Liz | October 31, 2006 at 10:46 AM
Thank you so much for the advice. I did call my docs office a couple hours ago and they're setting me up with a gyno here in my town so I don't have to drive 120 miles
Posted by: Jolene | October 31, 2006 at 12:17 PM
I am so glad to have finally made the connection between my hair loss and the Mirena... BUT CAN ANYONE TELL ME IF I HAVE IT REMOVED, WILL MY HAIR COME BACK?????????? I am nearing 40 and have always had long, thick hair...I have lost about 1/2 of my hair~NO JOKE~and I am consumed with worry that it is permanent! Please tell me it grows back????
Posted by: Christine Herndon | October 31, 2006 at 03:07 PM
I have been on various forms of birth control for the past seven years (orthotricyclin, the patch, and now the ring). The patch sucked, the pill was ok but annoying and the ring is great. HOWEVER...I want off hormones. My mother suffered a stroke at the age of 37 after getting her tubes tied (to all you women thinking about tubal ligotomies, don't do it!!! It is a surgery with all of the big risks... your man should be snipped. It is much less dangerous and less risky. Anyway, getting her tubes tied didn't work. I came around two years later.) Hormones are a risk I don't want to take anymore. So I have been thinking about an IUD. I live in San Francisco. Does anyone have any suggestions for who to go to? I am going to a new doc tomorrow to get my yearly and talk about it. We shall see.
Posted by: Elizabeth | November 03, 2006 at 12:18 AM
hey... I've had the IUD (hormonal) for a little over a year. Pleased to announce no period and my hair is still in place. However I have gained almost 50 pounds!!! I am freaking out. Has anyone else experienced this???
Posted by: Sara | November 07, 2006 at 11:25 PM
I just had my Mirena IUD removed two days ago, but not because of any problems, simply because my husband and I would like to get pregnant now. I laughed so hard reading these posts because I thought I was the only person on earth who thought they were literally going to die during insertion. I have never had a child so I was completely unprepared for the pain. And all of the websites that I had ready had said mild to moderate pain. I can handle mild to moderate. I could not handle pain that was not on the outside, but felt like it was coming from the inside and tearing it's way out. I scared the crap out of the little girls in the waiting room who thought the screaming was from a pap smear (it was their first ever pap smear.) And I drove myself home. That was hilarious. When I got home, I went immediately to bed and woke up massively sweating. I figured that I had a fever and was dying. As luck would have it, my AC decided to break that day.
While I have had some heavier periods and acne like never before, I would have to say that the benefits FAR outweigh any of the drawbacks. I must mention that when I say acne like never before, it is because the most acne I have ever had is maybe 1 zit a month. During the first few months on the IUD I had about 4 zits a month. So it wasn't crazy, but crazy for me.
I'm wondering if anyone has any stories about getting pregnant after an IUD has been removed. I'm hoping to get pregnant in the next two months and have been looking for info about the lining being thinned by IUD's. I had mine in for 5 months. Thanks for any help.
Posted by: Jen | November 09, 2006 at 04:18 PM
Thank you for hosting this forum! Although the facts from Planned Parenthood, the patient information docs from Mirena and Paragard, and the info sheet my doc gave me are definitive, these personal accounts reflect the stats and give meaning to them. Thank you all for sharing them! My recent experience also seems typical:
I just had the copper IUD inserted yesterday. I had intense but very brief cramping when it was inserted. Since then I've had the kind of heavy cramping/weak legs I get the first day or two of my period.
My doc and his info sheet indicate this cramping will subside in a day or two, and it is reassuring to see this confirmed on this forum. This seems a teeny-tiny price to pay for 10 years of BC. And although it is not perfect (there is a less than 1% chance of pregnancy and a high chance that that pregnancy is ectopic), it has the highest effectivity rate around.
So far my only regrets with the copper IUD is that I didn't get it 10 years ago! I had tried hormonal methods but never liked the side effects (weight gain, moodiness, constantly slightly pms-ing), so my husband and I fussed with barrier methods, can you say "kill joy"? I'm so happy to have learned about the copper IUD. Yeah for reproductive technology! Yeah for the internet! Yeah for EG! :>
Posted by: Arla | November 11, 2006 at 04:01 PM
I have read all the comments about Mirena, but I am currently going through something that I can't seem to find anywhere on the internet. I have had my Mirena IUD in for 10 years, and it's time to change it out. For those considering it, nothing beats not having to remember the pill!!! I didn't realize all of the side affects, but I guess that really does explain a lot of issues and problems I've had over the years. But here's the kicker, I go in to get it removed & replaced...my doctor pulls the string...the string breaks!!! Now what?! My doctor says this has never happened before and doesn't know what to do...not very reassuring for the person in the stirrups!!! My doctor told me the only way he knows of to get it out now is to put me to sleep and basically do surgery, WELCOME TO MIRENA HELL!!!! I'll keep you posted on what happens from here...
Posted by: Stephanie | November 17, 2006 at 08:09 PM
Hello recent commenters!
Unfortunately, I don't have any personal information about Mirena to share, since I have a Paraguard.
Stephanie, Mirena isn't good for ten years, is it? I thought Mirena was only for five? So sorry about your troubles with the string. That truly sucks; I hope it's not too much trouble to get it out.
Posted by: Liz | November 19, 2006 at 07:41 PM
I'm seriously considering the Paragard as the contraceptive pill makes me feel constantly sore and irritated down below. However I heard that the IUD can trigger off yeast infections. Has anyone experienced this? I really like the idea of an IUD but I don't want to get it if I'm likely to experience a lot of yeast infections - I'm tired of feeling so sore and uncomfortable all the time !
Posted by: Teresa | November 20, 2006 at 07:39 AM
I have never had children and decided to get the Mirena IUD for several reasons. At the age of 16, I started using birth control pills and did so off and on, trying lower and lower dose pills, until my early 20's. I stopped taking them when I learned that there was NO bcp that I am not sensitive to - I experienced heart arrhythmias, contant fatigue, etc. Then, I tried the sponge...loved it and had no problems, but then product became unavailable in my area (my obgyn said it was temporarily taken out of production.) Then, in my late 20's, I tried the Nuva Ring for three months, which was worse than any bcp that I had ever tried. The hormones in it made me feel ill and lethargic at all times, and I developed dangerous heart arrhythmias. So, for the last several years I had been using spermicides, but had to quit due to severe chemical burns around my vaginal and rectal areas. My dermatologist had never seen anything like it...how embarrasing. In some individuals, repeated use of chemicals create sensitivities. As soon as I was healed from the burns, I decided my ONLY option is an IUD, or my husband could get a vasectomy. Some studies show that men have an increased risk for prostate cancer, so I decided to try the IUD first before I would put him at risk, assuming there is one. So, here is my dilemma...I had the Mirena IUD inserted approx. 35 hours ago. I only experienced about 4 seconds of sharp cramps. The doctor told me I had tolerated it very well, especially considering I did not follow their recommendation of 800mg of ibuprofen. But, as soon as the procedure was over, I had the worst cramps ever. I tend to get cramps so severe for one day on my period that I sometimes can not go to work, however the cramping after the IUD insertion was far greater. If I knew that cramps could be so painful and limiting, I would have found a driver for the day. These severe cramps only lasted about three hours. I woke up this morning feeling great. But, here is my PROBLEM...as I was performing light housekeeping duties, it felt as if a hook/claw was trying to rip it's way out of the lower right side of my abdomen. I dropped to the floor since the pain was UNBEARABLE...I feel for anyone else that had to experience this. When I realised that anytime that I moved my legs in the slightest bit, the ripping sensation grew stronger and stronger. I am highly tolerant of pain, and I shocked myself as I was crying out. I could only pull myself with my arms to get to the phone. Since it was Thanksgiving morning, my obgyn was closed, I had to contact the on-call obgyn. She told me to check for the IUD strings, and that if I did not feel them I would need to go to the ER. She said that I should not be having any pain ONLY cramps. I checked for the strings and found one of them so I figured I was safe. It bothered me to have to do this since Mirena gives strict guidelines not to insert ANYTHING in the vagina for up to 72 hours (not even baths are acceptable). Anyhow, I have been eating Advil liquid gelcaps so I can continue to cook for family. It is now ten hours since the first ripping sensation, which has been coming and going all day and night. My family just thought I was sick. MY QUESTION IS THIS: Is this ripping sensation what some of you are calling cramps? I assume either my body is trying to expel the IUD, the IUD is perforating my cervix, etc., or this is really cramping that feels like the tearing of flesh that will subside in the next day or so. Anything will help...thank you much in advance!
Posted by: Jen | November 23, 2006 at 07:55 PM
Teresa, I don't think yeast infections are related to IUD use, but you should ask your doctor.
Jen, I'm not sure about a "ripping" sensation. It did hurt in different ways than just cramps for a few days after I got it, and I did feel like I could feel it at times, which was very uncomfortable. Please continue to communicate with your doctor about your pain. Also, I'm surprised that you went with Mirena considering the birth control problems you've had. I would have thought a copper IUD with no hormones would have made more sense considering your previous complications.
Posted by: Liz | November 24, 2006 at 07:38 PM
im still bleeding after inserting the IUD for four days ,is it safe?how long should we rest after inserting IUD?i had the copper one..
Posted by: louda | November 28, 2006 at 02:40 AM
This is maybe a little out of the ordinary considering I've read all of these blogs.
I have the Mirena IUD, (which was a cinch to have put in and have had no problems with what-so-ever.. love love love it--have two children)
But it's been five years and its time for it to come out, I am in NO financial situation to have it removed this month, (my husband has been unemployed for almost 2 months)
I've desperately searched the net and have found nothing regarding "not removing your IUD (ha), which sounds corky I know. I'm wondering is it less effective if I waited a few months to remove it? or is it dangerous to not remove it?
Give me some feedback girls!!
Posted by: Nikki | November 28, 2006 at 02:14 PM
I have had my Paraguard IUD in for almost 1 month now and tonite I had a little scare. I hadn't checked for the strings in a little while and when I went to "look" for them, they were nowhere to be found. The whole thing seemed pretty weird so I checked one last time, and there they were just barely poking out of the cervix... Why after only a month did one inch of string turn into one millimeter. I am calling my gyn tomorrow, but it is definitely disconcerting. I know someone said that they tend to be easier to find at certain times of the month, but I don't want it to just be floating around in there.
Posted by: Dani | November 29, 2006 at 10:17 PM
I just wanted to add my two cents/IUD experience. I had an IUD inserted today. I have never had children and chose the Paragard IUD because I wanted something without hormones.
I had read this page before the procedure and kind of got scared by all of the posters who had had painful experiences.
Mine was NOTHING similar to these, the IUD insertion was uncomfortable but certainly not what I would call painful. It was just like most of the literature said . . . it felt a lot like bad cramps. I still have cramps now but they're nothing unbearable.
Here's what my doctor did: first of all, they insisted that I have it inserted while on my period. The reason for this is the cervix is easier to work with during the period. Second, I was referred to a women's clinic to have the IUD put in by a doctor who does them fairly routinely. The doctor numbed my cervix with novocaine before sounding it and inserting the IUD. I could hardly even feel the shots in my cervix. I don't know if the other women here had the luxury of novocaine during their insertion, but it really made mine a piece of cake! The worst was definitely the insertion -- it felt like extreme cramps -- but it was over after a few moments and subsided into just regular ol' cramps.
Although it just happened today, overall I'm very pleased with the procedure. It was nothing like the pain I had expected and I couldn't be happier about 10 free years of birth control courtesy of my insurance company. I wanted to post this to reassure anyone who may have been reading this and getting scared as well. It's not so bad, and if you're seriously thinking about an IUD, I would strongly recommend the novocaine during the procedure!
Posted by: Arielle | November 30, 2006 at 05:26 PM
To Louda...I know the Mirena is supposed to be replaced after 5 years but I think that's because the hormones are used up. I imagine it's still effective anyway without the hormones. The hormones thin the lining and increase the mucus plug in your cervix. If it were me I'd just leave it in until I got back on insurance.
For the list in general...
I got a Mirena four months ago and will be having it removed...in the next few days I hope. I'm even thinking of removing it myself. I like an IUD so plan to replace it with the traditional copper if my insurance will help out. I'm so glad Louda has had a good experience with the Mirena but I don't recommend it. The side effects for me are not worth it: weight gain, bloated (I wake up in the morning some days looking 5 months pregnant!), worse PMS, fatigue (I keep falling asleep at inappropriate moments like business meetings and management classes!! I cannot stay awake!)feeling full all the time, feeling hungry all the time, and GERD. The GERD (acid reflux) starts as soon as I eat in the morning and sticks with me the entire day. I'm a singer and the acid is starting to affect my vocal chords. But the GERD came on gradually. I've been feeling it for four weeks now, off and on at first, and now constantly. The only time I've ever had heartburn/GERD symptoms was during my pregnancies. I figured it just had to have something to do with the Mirena and did some research online and finally found a medical journal site that said progesterone relaxes the flap that keeps stomach acid from creeping up your esphogus. I found a forum where tons of women are posting their nightmare stories with the Mirena and was so happy to find I wasn't crazy, that many other women were dealing with the same side effects and some women suffering much much worse than I.
I love not having much in the way of periods (pre-Mirena they lasted 10 days, though light most of the time...I have fibroids) and completely spontaneous sex, but I'm done. It amazes me that the doctors believe that the hormones only have a local effect and not your whole system. That's what both a naturopath at Bastyr in Seattle told me as well as my nurse practitioner. "Oh, no, your body doesn't think you're pregnant, not enough hormones." And "The hormones only act on your uterus and not the rest of your body, they act locally!" And what was I thinking believing that!? Anything you introduct into your body, especially chemicals, is going to travel throughout your system because it's absorbed into your tissues and transported by the blood. Amazing.
Traci
Posted by: Traci | December 02, 2006 at 05:55 PM
I had the Paraguard put in 6 days ago. I also had pain worse than anything I've ever felt (no, I haven't had kids - and am not keen to if labour is anything like that!) Don't try and be brave and not take Tylenol beforehand. Jen, I can definitely empathise with the "ripping" sensation. And I've still got some bleeding, well over a week since my normal period started. I guess it's just from the IUD, but if it's still around in a few days I'm going to go back to make sure everythings okay.
Posted by: Sara | December 03, 2006 at 07:27 PM
I forgot to mention/warn people considering getting an IUD... as part of the procedure, they have to measure your cervix. She was having some trouble doing this and asked me to cough - big mistake to actually comply! OMG! This was the first time the horrible pain ripped through my body. The second time was inserting the actual IUD. If it had gone on for 1 second longer I don't think I would have stayed conscious. Anyway, moral of the story is take Tylenol prior, and don't cough when they tell you to! Good luck to you all xx
Posted by: Sara | December 03, 2006 at 07:35 PM
I just got a Mirena IUD placed in today... so far, so good. I felt the insertion, but it was definitely nothing more than a mild cramp. (I did take 800mg Ibuprofen a few hours before insertion) No cramping since... (they did give me Vicodin, just in case) I am excited... as long as I don't put on weight, as many seem to have. I have already gained enough weight over the past year :) I am at a university, and it is covered with our health insurance... only cost me 20 bucks for 5 years of birth control!
Posted by: Lexi | December 05, 2006 at 12:26 AM
i have decided not to get an IUD after all i think that i will stick with deprovera or some other form of the pill i have to say that my labor was less painful than the insertion of the IUD and i will not be experiencing pain like that again if i can help it. They didn't insert it right the first time so i will be taking that as a sign not to have it done. I would rather have another kid than go through that kind of pain...
Posted by: amanda | December 06, 2006 at 03:17 PM
I'm supposed to be having a Mirena IUD inserted next week, but you guys have me scared! Acne, weight gain, hair loss, cramps, yikes! Do most women who get these side effects get them because of the hormones? I have never been hormone sensitive. I am 36 and have never had a baby. I was on the pill for 20 years with no problems whatsoever. Last year I began having long, heavy periods (they were always short and light before). It turns out I have a medium-sized uterine fybroid that's causing the heavy periods. My doctor had me try the Nuva Ring, which is okay except it really didn't help my periods and I'm always afraid it's going to fall out (it has come out accidentally twice in 3 months). So she suggested the Mirena. She (my gyno) has one and loves it. SHe said it is the most likely thing to stop these heavy periods. But what about those crazy symptoms? Since I've never had problems with hormones before, am I less likely to suffer the weight gain, hair loss, etc? Also, I've lost 80 lbs. over the last couple of years so I'm quite concerned about weight gain or inability to lose weight! As for insertion pain, after reading many stories I'm really nervous. I plan to take 800mg advil AND a Xanax (for me, anticipation of pain gets me so tense it makes the actual pain even worse sometimes, like during dental work). Also, I've never had cramps before, will I be able to go to work and to the gym?
Posted by: Michelle | December 13, 2006 at 12:12 PM
I too am currently in the IUD dilemma. Do I get the Mirena or the Paraguard? If some one could please offer me any feed back to these 2 questions it would be greatly appreciated. I can take hormones O.K. but I don’t like the way they make me feel so I’m a little nervous about the Mirena. My question is please from both users of a Paraguard and the Mirena- Dose either one effect your libido? I want to keep that monthly hormone fluctuation (yeah PMS Sucks!!! But Ovulation is Awesome). My Dr. says that Merina is only local and doesn’t affect your ovaries. Since the Paraguard has no hormones I know that they wont but I’m really sacred I’ll have like 20 day periods and soak 20 pads a day or you have an increased chance of getting pregnant at ovulation! I’m 27, have 1 child who is now 6, Regular 28 day cycle since day 1which I wouldn’t consider too heavy (on heaviest 2 days- I’ll use about 5-8 pads a day) and always no longer than 5 days. So any feedback to libido and sex drive (both IUD’s) or persons with normal menstrual functions (No cysts, fibroids or excessive bleeding, ect.) as to side effects to both will be greatly appreciated! Thank You
Posted by: TiffanyS | December 13, 2006 at 10:26 PM
Hi Michelle and others,
I just got back from the OB-GYN office after trying to have the Mirena inserted. Apparently, the shape of my cervix created problems and after at least a minute of severe painful cramping, she declared she couldn't insert it. She wants me to come back while I have my period since it's supposed to be easier then. I had a copper IUD for ten years and had it taken out about 1 1/2 years ago. No problems with sex drive or infections, just pretty crampy and long, intense periods. I was trying to avoid this by using the Mirena. However, I am not sure I want to risk weight gain, hair loss, etc. It's a trade off, I guess... Crampy, long periods vs. issues with hormones. Has anyone experienced trouble with not being able to get an IUD inserted?
Posted by: Anonymous | December 14, 2006 at 01:04 PM
Hi,
This has been very helpful to read all these posts. I am 39. I was on the pill for 20 years straight. i never had a problem, but turning 35/36 and then I had some prehypertention. then I went off the pill, I wasn't having any sex..so for a year..that was fine. But then I started to date and Now I am in a relationship. So I opted for Paraguard. I do not plan to have children, don't want them, but have read too much about the 1% Maybe factor, so I didn't do the tubal ligation yet. If for some reason my IUD doesn't work..i will reconsider. I hope it works fine. So here is my commentary
Anyway. Paraguard. Funky insertion...hurt, unfun, nearly passed out, had to stay at office for 45 minutes, (had it on 5th day of normal period) After that it was fine. I could feel it was there, even though they said you can't feel it. So for another 2 days I bled, then it stopped. I spotted 2 days this month and I am now into my first IUD period. HM. Heavy!! I have read on several sites now that a REally heavy period is having to change tampon every hour. Mine isn't that much, but for me...usual period. (before IUD) I could use 5-6 tampons for the ENTIRE period. I wouldn't wear them to bed, because..I was horizontal and flow was not too heavy and bathed in morning. Anyway. I started this 2nd period on day 21, which I thought was early..and it was light for Sunday, Monday and then Tues and Wed it was this really heavy period..bright red blood. So As I am understanding...when I go passed 7 days...then I can concern myself. I need to give it a little time for my body to adjust. Other than that..I like it. Good so far. Has anyone else had this heavy period. Maybe mine was light for all those "pill" 20 years and my natural cycle for that "unpill" year was just medium. Maybe other women have this heavy flow all the time. there is no normal...any commentary. Thanks
Posted by: Seri | December 21, 2006 at 12:07 PM
Hey Tiffany,
I just wrote but as for now being able to have it inserted. Well I learned that my uterus is really really tipped toward my stomach (antiverted??) and they had a hell of a time getting it in there. Because it wasn't just straight on. They said, (because they actually did a sonagram to check that it was in there) that it's the most antiverted uterus they had ever seen. All I know is that it made the insertion, really tricky. the first one, they tried popped open before going in and the second one..was like "Oh OW!!!!" And then..I felt all barfy and like I had to pee and poo all mixed together with nausea, cold sweats and all that. Maybe your uterus is in an odd position too?
Seri
Posted by: Seri | December 21, 2006 at 12:13 PM
Well I went ahead and had the Mirena inserted this morning, and after all that worrying about it being painful, it was a breeze! I was so scared from reading so many horror stories that I took a Xanax and 800mg ibuprofen an hour before. I did deep breathing throught the whole insertion and I barely felt a thing. My doctor told me what she was doing each step. There was a little twinge when she measured my uterus, then a slightly larger twinge when she inserted the Mirena, but no big deal at all. And the whole thing only took about 5 minutes. I can feel that something is a little different down there, but I don't feel crampy or sick or anything (yet). I'll keep you posted.
Posted by: Michelle | December 22, 2006 at 08:26 AM
Just wanted to give an update. Well, after my long and heavy 7 day period, it's now over. I did speak with my doc and she said because my uterus is SO tilted and that the insertion was so funky, that she is not surprised that this first period is heavy. She told me to take Ibuprofen to help bleeding (she gave me explanation that I can't recall) and also to take an iron supplement and gave me telling signs in case I was becoming anemic. So..I am happy to announce that i lived through the heavy period. For someone who has never had one..I guess i had NO idea what it was like and assumed that something was wrong. After much research, I am fine, but it was alarming. I have learned much. Thanks for all who have written in weeks past, it was very helpful.
Seri
Posted by: Seri | December 26, 2006 at 05:51 PM
Well my Mirena has been in 11 days so far and I've had no cramping or pain. For the first week, I had a slow trickle of blood (it was inserted during my period, supposed to be less painful), but nothing that a liner or 2 a day couldn't handle. And after almost 20 years on the pill, I can finally stand to have my boobs touched! Yay! They always used to be so sensitive, but no more. So as long as my hair doesn't start falling out and my weight doesn't skyrocket (I weigh the same as on insertion day despite eating like a pig during Christmas vacation), I'm giving it 2 thumbs up!!!
Posted by: Michelle | January 02, 2007 at 07:33 AM
I HAVE HADE A MIRENA FOR 2 YEARS. HAIR IS REALLY THIN.AM WONDERING IF THE COOPER IUD WILL DO THE SAME?IF NOT DOES ANY ONE KNOW OF ANT METHOD THAT WILL NOT GIVE YOU MELASMA?AS FAR AS BITHCONTROLL PILLS GO.WILL MY HAIR GROW BACK ONCE I TAKE THIS IUD OUT?
Posted by: JOANN | January 19, 2007 at 01:52 AM