Choosing An IUD
You're over taking the pill everyday. Or you had a pregnancy scare. Or you are definitely not ready for a (or more) kids right now. So you think you're ready for an IUD, but now which one?
Below are a few questions to ask yourself that can help you make your decision. Don’t worry. There will be more blog posts coming with a deep dive on all birth control options.
How effective do you want your birth control to be?
Well good news for you, all IUDs are 99% effective. Hooray!
How long do you want it to be effective?
Maybe you’re just looking for a few years for pregnancy spacing, or you feel like, “I have no idea who I’ll be or what birth control I’ll want in three years from now.” Great! Some of the lower dose hormonal options might be best for you, like:
Skyla: effective for 3 years
Kyleena: effective for 5 years
Maybe you want the longest amount of coverage possible, or the biggest bang for your buck. Then a higher dose or Copper IUD might be better for you.
Mirena: effective for 7 years
Paragard (Copper): effective for 10 years
Do you want a period every month?
You're in one camp or the other:
I would love to never have a period ever again. Great! Then a hormonal device is for you. The higher doses (like the Mirena and Liletta) are more likely to completely stop your cycle. With the lower dose hormonal devices it’s a bit more up in the air. Some people will continue to have their cycle, no matter what. And some others will stop their period right away with even the lowest dose of hormone. We don’t know until we try.
If I do not get a period every month I will freak the hell out and think I'm pregnant. Also great! The Paragard (Copper) will allow you to have a menstrual cycle every month. And many people who use the Skyla (lowest hormonal dose IUD) will still get a cycle, but it is not a guarantee.
What kind of period do you want?
I just want "my" regular period. Understood. Then the Paragard is for you. You will have “your” period at “your” regular intervals. And the symptoms that come along with ovulation and premenstrual life will be “yours” too. The only downside is that the Paragard could cause your periods to be heavier and crampier than your natural period. (Sorry).
I would be fine with having a period every month if it was lighter and easy to manage. Also, understood. . . but a bit more tricky. The lower dose IUDs are more likely to allow you to have your natural cycle that is more well controlled, but there is no guarantee. Some people will have very irregular spotting, or their period will completely stop. So if you’re not married to having a menses every month, an IUD like the Skyla or Kyleena are a safe bet.
What has been your experience with hormones in the past?
Many people will choose the Paragard (Copper) IUD if they have had a negative experience with hormones in the past. Especially mood changes, weight gain, acne, and decreased libido. For some people it is worth it to know that whatever is going on with their body is not related to their birth control. If you have no experience with birth control, or have never had an issue, then both hormonal and non-hormonal can be good options.
What is your medical history?
If you have a blood clotting disorder or have a history of blood clots, you may only be eligible for the Paragard IUD. Progesterone-only methods (like hormonal IUDs) are safe for most health conditions. But ALWAYS consult with your hematologist, or any other specialist managing chronic conditions before making a final decision.
Still have more questions? Feel free to message me on social media, via email, or keep an eye out for more blog posts! Stay tuned for more great info on everything related to sexual health and how to prepare for your IUD when it comes time for insertion.
