[kristenlynn]

Here's a bit of medical history explaining why I want Paragard at my age rather than just taking birth control pills..
I'm 18 years old (I know, really young to be considering these things) and have been dealing with endometriosis since my periods started when I was 13. I've had two laparoscopes done for it- the first one accomplishing nothing and the second removing huge amounts of endo as well as a few small ovarian cysts. My gyno said the cysts were so small they didn't even require removal, but since she was already in there she did it anyway. I've been to the top specialists in the nation for endo and fortunately the treatment is working. My most recent doc said that he had seen very few cases as severe as mine, and never anything remotely similar on someone my age. I'm on daily Lupron injections (which are amazing, btw. Almost no side effects. I was on the monthly Lupron previously and it was torture). They are controlling all but a tiny amount of cramping.

Because of the Lupron, however, I am unable to take hormone based contraceptives. My boyfriend and I have been together for a year and are both free of STIs. We are very committed and not at risk of contracting one. We use condoms, but I would really like a back up birth control just in case (I can't take Plan B). My gyno said that Paragard is pretty much my only option due to my medical history.

I was hoping y'all could tell me some of your tales of having Paragard. I'm interested, but I have heard some horror stories (specifically based on insertion). I'm iffy and hoping to make a decision soon.

Thanks y'all!

[HollyHUC]

The insertion was no sweat. It's what came after that really sucked. See my thread - https://www.womens-health.com/boards...-tell-you.html

[Jayla2251]

I had it put in, worse pain Ive ever had. Didnt end up working out, and it's not cheap at all!

https://www.womens-health.com/boards/birth-control/25168-copper-iud-pain.html

[Chloesmama]

OK, so Paragard is actully horrible. I cant believe a DR would suggest that for someone who has Endometriosis. Paragard makes bleeding/cramps/periods worse. I also cant have hormones, i had a Pulmonary Embolism (blood clot in the lung) from birth control pills. I work for a Pharmacy and i see alot of women being prescribed Mirena, even with conditions like endometriosis. Mirena stops bleeding and cramps, the hormones in the Mirena only stay in the Uterus, very small almost none got into the blood stream. I currently have the Mirena, and let me tell you its a walk in the park compared to the Paragard. Paragard SUCKS horribly, but maybe it will be a good fit for you... I dont know??? Good Luck tho!

[genelia.genesis]

I have been on the pill now for a few years, and I just learned about ParaGard-- unlike the other IUD mentioned, this one has no hormones, and once inserted by the doctor, it lasts for up to 10 years, but you can take it out whenever you want. According to the website, since there are no hormones, you can start trying for pregnancy immediately after you take it out, and on the flip side, it supposedly begins working the day you have it put in! (no few week waiting period like the pill). Still side effects are a part such treatments be aware of that.

[Sarah88]

An alternate point of view-- I've had Paragard for four months now, and it has been great for me. I was shocked at how easy insertion was after reading some horror stories. You should definitely take the rest of the day off, but the day after the pain/discomfort was pretty much gone and nothing since. I know this is not the experience some have, but just wanted to share my perspective. (I am 21, never given birth).