Read This Before Pulling The Trigger On A Copper IUD When women are looking for birth control, the copper IUD often comes up as a safe, long-lasting option. While the copper IUD is one of the highest rated forms of birth control, there are some pros and cons. Here are 10 things to consider before pulling the trigger on getting a copper IUD. #1: It’s more popular than the pill In one study, the copper IUD was the highest rated form of birth control, achieving a score of 8.9/10. Women reported much higher satisfaction with IUDs than with pills. Some women prefer the copper IUD because, unlike pills, it is non-hormonal and uses copper to prevent pregnancy. #2: Set-and-forget for 99% effectiveness Studies have shown that copper IUDs are over 99% effective. While all forms of birth control are highly effective when used properly, many depend on the user. Copper IUDs don’t have room for user error; they have a set-and-forget nature. #3: Pain relievers may be needed In some women, placing the copper IUD can be painful, with cramping continuing for a few days after insertion. Usually, this pain and cramping can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. If pain persists, women should communicate with their doctor. #4: It will change your bleeding Though the copper IUD is a non-hormonal birth control option, it will likely cause changes in a woman’s periods. For some women, the copper IUD increases menstrual bleeding and pain, especially in the first few months. In most women, however, this irregular bleeding decreases after the first year. #5: Prevent pregnancy for a decade The copper IUD provides long-term, effective birth control lasting up to 10 years. This can [...]

3 Things to Consider When Choosing Birth Control Are you considering starting or switching your birth control? The options can be overwhelming with barrier methods, daily pills, long-term devices, permanent surgical procedures- the list goes on. What do you really need to know when talking to your OBGYN about contraception? Your 5-Year Plan The first question to ask yourself is whether or not you want to have a baby and, if so, when? Some contraceptive options, like birth control pills and barrier methods, allow you to stop at any time when you decide to get pregnant. Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, and implants can provide worry-free contraception for years. And if you’re done having children- ask your OBGYN about permanent sterilization, such as tubal ligation. Maybe, Baby? How important is it for you to not have a baby right now? Some birth control options, like Natural Family Planning and barrier methods, are effective, but less so than an implant or IUD. Hormonal contraceptives- including birth control pills, implants and the birth control shot- are most effective when administered on time. If it’s really important for you to not have a baby right now, talk to your OBGYN about backup birth control. Backup birth control is when you use two birth control methods to ensure protection in the event one fails. Timing is Everything Some contraceptive options require you to take a pill every day and are most effective when taken at the same time every day, while barrier methods must be used every time you have intercourse. The birth control shot works for three months, but you have to visit your doctor for an injection four times a year. Longer-acting contraception, such as [...]

Copper IUDs The Cooper IUD is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Copper IUDs can be a coil, loop, triangle, or T in shape made of copper. What side effects can a Copper IUD cause? Pain when Copper IUD is inserted Cramping or backaches for a few days after Copper IUD is put in Spotting between periods Irregular periods Heavier periods and worse menstrual cramps Are periods regular when using Copper IUDs? Copper IUDs may cause an increase in cramps during menstruation. These cramps should clear up in 3 to 6 months. If cramping seems unbearable at any time, a physician should be consulted. Irregular bleeding and spotting could also last for the first 3 to 6 months after insertion. Copper IUDs can cause irregular periods and if there is heavy bleeding and clotting, a physician should be consulted. Can pregnancy happen when using Copper IUDs? If pregnancy occurs while using a Copper IUD, there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy (fetus develops outside the uterus, usually the fallopian tubes) The pregnancy usually results in a miscarriage or surgery to remove the fetus from the fallopian tube and losing the use of that tube since it will be removed. How long does it take to get pregnant after a Copper IUD is removed? Conception, after the Copper IUD is removed, usually takes a healthy couple 4 to 6 months. Eighty-five to ninety percent will conceive after one year. How effective are Copper IUDs? Copper IUDs are placed within 7 days of the start of the menstrual cycle and is 99% effective as contraception. Is sex painful when using Copper IUDs? There is no reason why Copper IUDs would cause discomfort or pain during [...]