1. Health

ParaGard: Nonhormonal but Effective Method

Reader Stories: What Advice Convinced You to Get an IUD?

From Eleanor

Updated January 28, 2010

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What Lead You to Consider IUD Use? 

I wanted a nonhormonal, but effective birth control method.

Helpful Questions that You Asked your Doctor 

I asked my doctor about the ParaGard IUD because I had heard that it was very effective but did not contain hormones. I wanted to know how long the iud insertion takes, how long it lasts, and about IUD removal.

How Did These Questions Help in Your IUD Decision? 

These questions helped as I was hooked as soon as my doctor confirmed that ParaGard did not contain hormones, as far as birth control effectivess goes, ParaGard is over 99% effective, and lasts for 10 WHOLE YEARS! It was also helpful to know that the iud insertion as well as the iud removal (though it could be uncomfortable) only took minutes and that should I decide to want another child, I could have ParaGard removed at any time. My doctor also told me that a woman’s ability to become pregnant returns quickly after IUD removal.

What I'd Do Differently 

  • I would have asked about side effects as I bled alot for like the first few months. Luckily, it stopped after then.

Dawn Stacey M.Ed, LMHC, Contraception Guide, says:

As far as side effects, the ParaGard IUD may cause a 50-75% increase in menstrual flow (bleeding), which for some women, may increase their risk for anemia. It may also cause spotting, lower abdominal pain, cramps, and/or back pain. These usually go away within the first few months.

For More Information: All About ParaGard IUD

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