Choices other than the pill

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-17-2005
Choices other than the pill
4
Thu, 03-01-2007 - 8:29pm
Hi,
I've been on the pill since I was 18 (I'm 21 now) and really have not had any problems with it, I started with yasmin and moved to seasonale, no spotting or anything like that and no periods which is the real reason I love seaosnale so much. However, I feel like it might have some impact on my libido. I want to switch to something non-hormonal to see if I can get some improvement with it. What should I chose that's reliable and not really messy?
Also, if it makes a difference I'm in a exclusive relationship w/bf of 3 years. And probably going to go to the doctor soon.
Thanks a lot
iVillage Member
Registered: 01-26-2005
Thu, 03-01-2007 - 10:53pm
some girls on here use the patch....or the ring (nuvaring)....I had the mirena IUD for about 3 years and loved it-for some women it can make your periods very light or stop them all together after some use...there's the copper IUD (non hormonal)....I'm sure someone else can chime in here and give you some more options...good luck....
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iVillage Member
Registered: 06-17-2005
Fri, 03-02-2007 - 7:13pm

I've looked around and would be interested in the IUD, but my question is, is okay for someone my age (21) to use it? Do you have to have had a baby before you could use it?

Also, does it hurt after the doctor puts it in?

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-18-2006
Fri, 03-02-2007 - 7:32pm
You might have a hard time getting a doctor to put one in. A lot dont like to do it because it is harder to do in women who havent ahd children and this is why. After you have had a baby your cervix is natually open all the time, but if you havent your cervix is very tightly closed and to put in the IUD they put a little straw liek thing into your cervix, then they take the IUD(which is T shaped) and bend the two "arms" downs and it slides through the straw into your cervix/uterus. It also last for about 5 years so if you wnat babies in 2-3 years i would suggest somethign less long term.
iVillage Member
Registered: 05-18-2006
Fri, 03-02-2007 - 11:01pm

I have the Mirena IUD. Some doctors will put it in women who haven't had a baby. Some won't because of the likely hood of spontaneous expulsion is higher if you haven't had a baby. I had mine put in at my 6 week check up after I had my son, I'm 24. It was uncomfortable to have put in and I had cramping for a day or so and some spotting. Getting one does cause irregular bleeding though for up to 6 months. It's good for 5 years and if you keep it at least 2 it's cheaper then the pill but more expense up front so check with your insurance to see if they cover it.

The Mirena IUD has some hormones in it but they are localized and less likely to cause side effects. It doesn't stop ovulation in all women it just stops implantation. If not having a regular period would make you nervous it may not be for you. Some women stop having periods all together on the Mirena.

If it's something your interested in I would definitely talk to your Gyno about it.

-Mel