wondering??

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-30-2004
wondering??
3
Sun, 09-26-2004 - 1:27am
I heard that the copper IUD prevents implantation, and the mirena prevents fertilization. is that true? if it is, does that mean with the copper one you get pregnant, but the egg has nowhere to attatch, isn't that abortion? I'm very uncomfortable about this idea. please let me know if this correct info. Thanks.
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-21-2003
In reply to: arbywan
Sun, 09-26-2004 - 1:42am
I believe there is an argument that the IUD does something to sperm so they can't attach to the egg. In my opinion (and I'm sure others feel differently), if you believe its wrong to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg there just isn't enough evidence out there to use an IUD. I'm sure someone else here can give you arguments for using it, so hopefully hearing both sides you can make up your mind. FYI, the pill has the potential to do the same thing. Again, there are arguments over whether this can be proven. But for me, the possibility is enough (as tempting as it was...)

If you decide the IUD or even the pill isn't for you, I highly recommend reading Taking Charge of Your Fertility. I'm happily using it as my method of birth control. And fertility awareness is flexible and can be used with or without other methods to increase effectiveness. At first I felt like I was kind of resorting to using this method, but now I'm so happy with it I wouldn't choose any other.

I hope that helps!
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-30-2004
In reply to: arbywan
Sun, 09-26-2004 - 2:05am
thanks for the info. a little background, i am exclusively brastfeeding my 10 1/2 month old son and have only had 1 warning period and 1 true period starting in july. i want to go non hormonal because i don't want anything to affect my supply, ds doesn't take too well to solids yet. but i am also leaning heavily towards mirena because it only has progesterone, and really do not want a period at all if i can. does any one else know if the copper one causes more problems than mirena? TIA.
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-15-2003
In reply to: arbywan
Sun, 09-26-2004 - 8:01am
I used the copper IUD and loved it. It did increase my bleeding, but it was still the best method of birth control I've ever used. I put together a summary of information about IUDs which is under the FAQ section of this board, if you are interested in reading it. Both types of IUD have their pros and cons. The copper mainly increases bleeding and cramps. The Mirena's biggest complaint is irregular bleeding and spotting between periods (only a fraction of women actual have no bleeing with Mirena). As far as the fertilization/implantation issue... current evidence suggests that both types of IUD work MAINLY by preventing fertilization. However, there is the possibility that in the rare case that it does occur, implantation could be prevented by the IUD. I have an article that estimates the rate of post-fertilization losses caused by the IUD, and, while I don't have the article handy at the moment, I do remember that the number is very small and it is similar to the losses one would incur naturally by not using reliable birth control. If you want more information, let me know and I can try to locate the article. We are currently building an addition on our house, so everything is in temporary disarray. Good luck on your decision, and let me know if you have any further questions.