[Chuckleberry]

How commonly are IUDs fitted in young women?

I am reluctant to take the contraceptive pill/injection/implant as I am aware of their common side effects induced by the hormones, i.e. severe mood swings and a loss of libido, issues I already have to battle with on a daily basis due to pre-existing depression.

I have read that the IUD is of slightly greater effectiveness and is much less likely to cause mood swings and a loss of libido. However, it seems to mostly be used by women aged 35+. I have read that there is a risk of damage to the uterus, which is a concern for me as a young woman who would very much like to have a family in the future (but not for at least five years).

[rosekitten]

To me, the potential risks associated with hormonal BC were well worth it compared to the potential risks of an IUD. I suggest going to the FDA website and looking up each of the different forms of BC you are considering and use that to help inform your choice. I loved my implant- I had it for a year, and while my sex drive was lower (by that, I mean that I expected more foreplay from my husband to get me aroused) now that it's out, I'm ready to pounce him all the time. lol I loved my implant and will be going back on it after we have our first child.

[danceintx]

I used the pill (Ortho Tricyclen) for 13 years, and my sex drive was much lower. I had the non-hormonal IUD Paraguard put in 8 months ago. My only side effects are heavier periods and slightly heavier cramping. The heavier periods are frustration, especially since going from 2-3 day light bleeding periods to 7 day heavy bleeding periods, but over all it's better than weight gain or loss of sex drive, or any of the other hormonal side effects. I have been reading that they are giving younger women that have had no children the IUD's more often.