Getting an IUD before having a child?
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| Mon, 06-12-2006 - 10:10pm |
I have been toying with the idea of getting an IUD for a couple months now. I have been on the pill for about two years, and I have not had any major problems with it but my experience has been less than perfect. Not only is it a little inconvenient, but even after being switched to a lower-hormone pill (my blood pressure was a little high on my last gyno visit) I am still having some trouble with moodiness and a few problems in the sex department (I don't want it or enjoy it as much as I used to). I also don't plan on having kids for at least three more years and would like something a little more long-term.
However, I's pretty young (almost 21) and don't have any children. I have looked into the Mirena IUD and their website says it is intended for women who have already had at least one child. Do most doctors go by this rule? What are my chances of being able to get an IUD, or will I probably be turned down due to my age and the fact that I have never had children?
What about you ladies...if you have or have had an IUD, what were the circumstances, and were you happy with it?

Hi,
The Paraguard IUD (no hormones) has been FDA approved for women without children to use it in the US.
(There is a post about it at the bottom of the board: http://messageboards.ivillage.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=iv-bhcontracept&msg=17451.1)
I had a non-hormonal IUD (different brand because I am not in the US) and it was just fine. One of the main things about getting an IUD inserted is that you should/need to be in a monogomous relationship, as a potential increase in risk of pelvic disease and complications with STDs does rise with an IUD.
Not all doctors feel that women without children should have IUD, so you may have to do a bit of shopping. And also not all doctors are experience with inserting IUDs. The more they've inserted, the better and quicker they are at it (hopefully!).
I liked my IUD and am thinking about getting another one someday. For now I am quite happy with Nuvaring.
Needed: your input!
I got my IUD when I was 20 and I've never had children.
Hi Rebel_joy,
I don't think I'll be much help... But just wanted to let you know that I am 28 (living in VA and no kids) and my DR. refuses to get me an IUD because I don't have kids. I've seen another DR. for a 2nd opinion and she refused as well. SO you are not alone. LOL I'm sticking to BCP for now since I'm not planning on having any kids any time soon yet. BUT would still like to get an IUD some day.
Take care and have a great day!
T-
I have not had children and it was my doctor's idea that I start using the Mirena IUD. (I have a gene that puts me more at risk for blood clots... estrogen is bad.)
I do think many doctors are willing to insert IUDs in women that have not had children... BUT I think most prefer that you are in a monogamous serious relationship. My doctor recommeded that once I got married we would have it inserted. If you are not monogamous or may have new boyfriends in the future, it is not a good idea to have an IUD. You are more at risk of getting infections.
But I do love the Mirena IUD... Its saving me lots of money.... no pill to pop ever day... longterm birth control.... lighter periods... love it!
I plan on trying to concieve in about three to four years.
megan
Thanks for your responses, guys! I guess I am going to give this a try and hope everything will work out for me.
The monogamy issue...well, shouldn't be an issue (if I can get a doctor to trust me, that is). I am in an exclusive relationship, and have been for over two years; we plan on getting married as soon as we can come across steady income and a place to live. I would like to start trying for a family in four or five years, but until then an IUD would make my life much easier.
My first step is trying to find a doctor...I have been getting my annual exam and birth control from the health department, so I am I going to have to find and make an appointment in an actual clinic. Does anyone know if IUD's are available in larger family planning clinics, or should I just skip that and try to find a regular gyno?
I would just see an gynecologist. That's who I see.
Good luck in your search....