Is the IUD a good form of Birth Control?

Question

I am 25 years old, and married. So I am in a very monogamous relationship. Six years ago, I was on the pill which caused a blood clot and I spent two nights in the hospital. After that my doctors wouldn't allow me back on the pill, my next option was Depo. After a horrible experience with that I spent the next four or five years using condoms. I was told a few years ago that the IUD wasn't a good option for women who haven't had children yet, but am hearing conflicting information now.

I would love to hear from anyone who has had the IUD, if you liked it or not and why? From anyone who has had it before having children and if you were able to conceive once you had it taken out? Really anything anyone is willing to offer!!

Thanks!!

Answer 1

IUD's are still not recommended for people who've not had children, although there are some "authorities" who say its ok now. Many (like Mirena) have hormones - similar to the pill - embedded in the plastic, so if you've had clotting disorders, this may not be the best choice. The alternative is a copper IUD and this can cause a LOT of side effects.

Personally, I had an IUD inserted when my son was 3. It was absolute HELL ON EARTH for 5 months - horrifying cramps, severe bleeding, irregular periods, and pain during sex/orgasm. I eventually had to have it surgically removed because it perforated my uterus. I cannot in any good conscience recommend it as a form of BC.

If you're looking for a different method besides condoms, talk to your doctor about Lea's Shield. Its a barrier method that is inserted into the vaginal canal before intercourse (like a diaphragm) but the efficacy rate is supposed to be better, and it's a one size fits all device, so no fitting is necessary. Its something to consider....

Answer 2

i have the iud because i was always forge ting my pills. That's the good thing about it. I got pregnant with the pills. Now my periods are almost nonexistent. I have a coworker who had the iud and wanted another child, took it out and a few months later she was pregnant. The only disadvantage i can think of right now is that there is a string coming out of your uterus and your man might be able to feel it. But other than that i recommend it. It is worth none having to worry about anything.

Answer 3

I had an IUD after my first child was born. I couldn't take the pill I got migraines from them. I used the IUD for 3 years, after having it taken out I conceived my second child in less then 2 months of having it removed. It was the best form of birth control I tried other than having my tubes tied after my second child.

Answer 4

I've heard of cases where you can get pregnant even with the IUD, and then you have to get the IUD removed, which is very dangerous. You might want to consider natural family planning, which is very effective when used correctly. I know people who have successfully prevented pregnancy for many years. One book that has been recommended to me is Taking Charge of Your Fertility, by Toni Weschler.

Answer 5

One thing you should think about: if you want something that is strictly contraceptive (not just birth control), don't use an IUD. They don't prevent conception, but prevent implantation of the conceptus by causing irritation to the uterine lining.

Answer 6

I have the Merina, I love it. I have had 5 kids and do not plan to have any more. It wasn't painful for me at all. I had spotting off and on which was more annoying then any thing. I no longer have heavy painful periods or PMS.

Good luck with your choice!