Paragard can also be used as a form of emergency contraception.
I have always been surprised that I dont know more women who use it, too.
This is a common concern.
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I, for one, wanted a nonhormonal option that was foolproof.
Contraception needs to be discussed when taking such medications.
But, like with any medication, there are downsides.
Read on to learn more about the copper IUD, the only nonhormonal IUD and LARC.
How does copper prevent pregnancy?
Essentially, it forms a little inflammatory cytotoxic environment in the cervical mucus as well as the endometrial lining.
We consider it to be spermicidal.
Its not a thing.
How painful is insertion?
Paragard is one of the largest of the IUDs.
There is even a corner of TikTok where women record their faces to capture their pained expressions during appointments.
Both Dr. Rodgers and Dr. Bayati use more sophisticated pain management methods than I was ever offered.
It makes a huge difference.
I also have them take an Advil or Tylenol an hour before.
I do not think an IUD insertion has to be painful, she says.
you’re free to absolutely always ask your doctor what they can do to help manage pain.
My first two insertions were really intense: take-my-breath-away, seeing-starspainful.
To my surprise, my third insertion was much easier.
All health care should be very individualized, says Dr. Bayati.
IUDs are a great form of birth control to provide as an option.
Do periods get worse with the copper IUD?
If you have a light period to begin with, its not a huge change in quality of life.
As long as you go in with the right expectations, people do fine.
Even patients with heavier periods feel its worth it.
It never felt unmanageable for me.
Oral contraceptive pills were 54%.
How effective is it?
Even accounting for user variability, its a no-brainer.
This tells you the IUD is still in the right place in the uterus.
How long can I keep an IUD in?
Hormonal IUDs last between three and eight years, depending on the bang out.
While its mostly covered by insurance, the longer you keep it in, the more economical it is.
Paid for entirely out of pocket, Paragard costs about $1,300, according to Planned Parenthood.
What are the risks?
All IUDs have a small risk of perforation of the uterus, expulsion, and infection.
In addition, Paragard manufacturer Teva Pharmaceuticals is facing ongoingmultidistrict litigationregarding the gear breaking during removal.
Bayati agrees that a very experienced practitioner makes a world of difference.
Recurrent BV and yeast infections will be uncomfortable but wont be dangerous to long-term fertility.
