Cons to copper IUD??
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Cons to copper IUD??
| Fri, 07-02-2004 - 3:26pm |
A recent discussion has posed a question in my mind...what are the CONS to the copper IUD? I'm in the group of folks with low libido due to BCP, and I think that it's also the cause of my depression, which I'm taking Wellbutrin for. (And side effect of wellbutrin...you guessed it! Low Libido...which is one of the reasons I'm DEPRESSED!!!) I feel like I've been in the same spiral for a few years now. I went off the BCP about 5 yrs ago for a bit...libido back...and BOOM...preggers! Oops!!
My "little blessing" is 4 yrs old now...and I'm now deep in the spiral again. The copper IUD sounds awesome...no hormones, which I think is the cause of most of my problems. Unfortunately, pregnancy isn't a solution!! LOL
Any suggestions on locations for info on the copper IUD, or anyone out there have good and/or bad (particularly bad) experiences to share? I know that my mother had an IUD when my 31 year old brother was a baby. She ended up with bleeding and complications (not sure exactly what), and ended up having a hysterectomy. I'm not crazy about that option.
Help!! :o)

I had a copper IUD and it was nice to not have the hormones in my body and it was nice to not have to think about birth control. My libido went WAY up after I went off the pill, and I didn't even realize it was low until I didn't have the hormones in me anymore. I had my IUD for about 2 years. The reason I had it removed was because my periods got very long, heavy and clotty (one of the side effects mentioned by Paraguard is longer, heavier periods for the first few months, but mine got worse over the two years I had it, not better). I dreaded my period every month, so I decided to get it taken out. But other than that, I didn't have any problems with it. Lots of women use the copper IUD and don't have horrible periods like I did, so I think it just depends on the person.
Here is some safety information from Paraguard's website (http://www.paragardiud.com/):
ParaGard® T 380A does not protect against HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases. ParaGard® is recommended for women who have had at least one child, are in a stable, mutually monogamous relationship, and have no history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women with a history of PID should not use ParaGard®.
Some serious complications that have been associated with intrauterine contraceptives, including ParaGard®, are:
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Perforation of the uterus
• Expulsion (where the contraceptive falls completely or partially out of the uterus)
The highest risk of PID is shortly after placement in the uterus, usually within the first 20 days. PID can cause permanent blockage of the tubes, sterility, ectopic pregnancy, or, in infrequent cases, death. A decision to use ParaGard® T 380A must include consideration of these and other possible risks. If you currently have or have ever had PID, you must not use ParaGard®.
The most common side effects of ParaGard® T 380A are heavier, longer periods with increased cramping for a few months after placement; some women have spotting between periods. For most women, this typically subsides after a few months. If you ever miss a period, call your healthcare professional without delay.
Good luck with your decision,
Lisa
Thank you so much! I'm on my way to check out that website....
Teresa
So, I had him insert the copper T IUD last year. I LOVE IT! I mean, the placement was easy - it took just minutes with very little discomfort (like a pap smear). I knew the cons were heavier periods, spotting and cramps. My dr. told me to give it at least 6 months before I make any judements on it. The 1st period after insertion was horrible. Heavy bleeding, major cramps, etc.. The next cycle was still bad, but not quite as bad. Well, a year later, and each cycle has gotten significantly better as my body adjusted and now my periods are basically what they were before the IUD. I hear this from a lot of friends who have the IUD as well. I'm so glad that I did it. I feel nothing - I don't have the terrible mood swings from the pill or the headaches. I don't have to remember to take that pill everyday and sex is SO much more enjoyable when I'm not worried about BC.
I have 2 kids and am done, but not ready to do anything permanant.
My Dr. told me that the IUDs are very safe and not like the ones our mom used years ago. My sister has had hers now for 5 years - no problems.
I hope this helps. I wish I had done the copper IUD sooner. :-)
Insertion was painful but only lasted a minute.
I really love not thinking about it. My sex drive is SO much better with out BCP. We are not sure if we will have kids so this was a perfect option for me. If we decide to we can take it out, but in the mean time no worries!
Good luck on your decision.