Finding the right birth control is no easy feat. There are so many options on the market, and not every type is meant for everybody. I've tried many different forms–the pill, Nuva ring, the shot–I've been through the works. I began to grow tired of renewing birth control monthly.
For me, there was a lot to consider–I have anxiety, so I wanted something that wouldn't make that worse and wouldn't give me mood swings. I wanted something that wouldn't make me gain weight and would give me little to no bleeding. I also had very painful periods, so I wanted something to regulate it and relieve cramping. All of this contributed to my decision to get the IUD.
According to PlannedParenthood.org, "IUD stands for Intrauterine Device (basically: a device inside your uterus). It's a small piece of flexible plastic shaped like a T. Sometimes it’s called an IUC — intrauterine contraception."
My first and foremost priority in life is my education and career. Once those are set, everything else will fall into place–I didn't want to have to worry about making a mistake and being forced to start a family in the midst of instability. Or, I wouldn't have to worry about experiencing an awful period if I messed up my monthly birth control.
I knew that the IUD would be the best choice for long-term birth control for me.
"IUDs are one of the best birth control methods out there — more than 99% effective. That means fewer than 1 out of 100 women who use an IUD will get pregnant each year."
Both copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs (the two types offered) prevent pregnancy by changing the way sperm cells move; if sperm can’t make it to an egg, pregnancy can’t happen.
The insertion process is fairly painful, and it can ache for awhile after. I was in pain often, but it was bearable. I chose to keep it, even though it hurt because I felt like I was making the right decision for my body and future.
Although it was painful, I feel as though I made the right choice for birth control.
After insertion:
- Take a day to heal; it can be painful
- Have a heating pad ready to ease the cramps-
- Naproxen or Aleve can help with cramping (available over the counter)
Check out these stories from other girls who have chosen the IUD!
Kate, 21, Paragard
Getting it inserted was messy, but my experience has been great. I chose it because I didn't want to hormones. I would totally recommend it for someone who is sensitive to hormones or struggles with a hormone imbalance.
Hannah, 18, Paragard
I looooove the IUD bc I don't have to remember it every day. Got it put in and almost passed out. The cramps definitely worsened and my period got heavier; I also have some mid cycle cramping/spotting but overall I prefer it over a hormonal pill. No weight gain, no hormones. My body overall feels healthier than when on the pill. Still have it, too. Got it put in last August and plan on having it for a long time. So nice not having to pay out of pocket every month and my local Planned Parenthood gave it to me for free!
Lexey, 19, Paragard
I have a paragard and it's the best and worst thing that's ever happened to me. I first got it implanted immediately after my abortion two years ago, which I think helped it to "heal" correctly. I missed work and class for a few days after. Now the first day of every period I have severe vomiting...Other than that though, I really fucking love my IUD. I know it's dependable, reliable, always there for me, and will keep sperm from ruining my life without causing me hormonal swings. And I know my IUD will outlive Donald Trump's presidency.
