Anyone got any advice on copper vs hormonal IUD's?

Answer 1

Hi,

I looked up some information for you. An IUD (intrauterine device) can be a very effective method of birth control, and as you mentioned, there are two types. I have several links provided for you, but I invite you to look at this information also.

First of all, from Yahoo! Health:
Treatment Overview

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-term birth control method. 1 Unlike IUDs that were used in the 1970s, present-day IUDs are small, safe, and highly effective.

An IUD is a small, T-shaped, plastic device that is wrapped in copper or contains hormones. The IUD is inserted into your uterus by your health professional. A plastic string tied to the end of the IUD hangs down through the cervix into the vagina. You can check that the IUD is in place by feeling for this string. The string is also used by a health professional to remove the IUD.

Types of IUDs

Levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD. The levonorgestrel (LNg) IUD, also known as Mirena, releases levonorgestrel, which is a form of progestin. The LNg IUD appears to be even more effective at preventing pregnancy than the copper IUD. Also, unlike other IUDs, it may decrease the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The LNg IUD is effective for at least 5 years.
Copper IUD. The most commonly used IUD is the Copper T 380-A. Copper wire is wound around the stem of the T-shaped IUD. The Copper T 380-A can stay in place for at least 10 years and is a highly effective form of contraception (less than 1% chance of pregnancy in the first year, and the chance gets lower with time). 1

The second link is for Planned Parenthood, which also provides good information for you. Here is some of the information that may be pertinent to you:
The Basics

The letters "IUD" stand for "intrauterine device."

IUDs are small, "T-shaped" contraceptive devices made of flexible plastic. IUDs are available by prescription only. A woman and her clinician decide which is the right type for her, and the clinician inserts it in her uterus to prevent pregnancy. Two types are now available in the U.S.:


ParaGard (Copper T 380A) — contains copper and can be left in place for 12 years

Mirena — continuously releases a small amount of the hormone progestin, and is effective for five years

How IUDs Work

Both kinds of IUDs work by preventing sperm from joining with an egg by affecting the way they move. The hormone in Mirena increases effectiveness. It thickens cervical mucus, which provides a barrier that prevents sperm from entering the uterus. It also prevents some women's ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation).

IUDs also alter the lining of the uterus. In theory, this may prevent pregnancy by preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg — but this has not been scientifically proven.

IUDs have a string attached that hangs down through the cervix into the vagina. A woman can make sure the IUD is in place by feeling for the string in her vagina. A clinician uses the string to remove the IUD.


Effectiveness

The IUD is one of the most effective reversible methods of birth control. Of 100 women who use ParaGard or Mirena, one or fewer will become pregnant during the first year of typical* use. Fewer than one will become pregnant with perfect** use. Fewer pregnancies occur with continued use.

It is very important to remember that the IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Use a latex or female condom with the IUD to reduce the risk of infection.

*Typical use refers to failure rates for women whose use is not consistent or always correct.
**Perfect use refers to failure rates for those whose use is consistent and always correct.


Advantages

IUDs are the most popular form of reversible birth control in the world. More than 85 million women use them.

IUDs may improve a woman's sex life. There is nothing to put in place before intercourse to protect against pregnancy. Some women say they feel free to be more spontaneous because they do not have to worry about becoming pregnant.

ParaGard does not change a woman's hormone levels.

Mirena may reduce menstrual cramps and flow. Average flow is reduced by 90 percent. Flow stops altogether for about 20 percent of women within one year. Reduced flow may reduce iron deficiency anemia.

The ability to become pregnant returns quickly when IUD use is stopped.

Good luck, and I hope this helps!

Answer 2

WELL I HAD THE HORMONAL IUD FOR A COUPLE MONTHS AND IT CAUSED MY WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT TO GO UP WAY TO HIGH SO THEY HAD TO TAKE IT OUT BEFORE I GOT REALLY SICK.