I have tried many different kinds of birth control. I’ve been on the pill, the NuvaRing, and the patch, but none worked for me. All of them blew my hormones out of proportion and made me feel like I was having a mental breakdown every single day. After months and months of thinking, I finally made the decision to get an IUD. I knew I wanted a birth control that could be easily removed, but I had steered clear of getting an IUD because I had many preconceived notions. First, I was scared it was going to hurt! I was also scared that I would run into complications and be in excruciating pain. Now that I’ve had it for almost six months, I can easily say it’s the best birth control on the market and here’s why.
First of all, it has the smallest hormone dosage and the longest lasting effects. Depending on which brand you get, IUD’s can be effective anywhere from five to seven years. Not only are you going through minimal hormonal changes, but IUD’s only use one hormone called progestin. This hormone actually causes many women to have lighter periods, which is a common finding among women who get the IUD. Although not all IUD’s have hormones, the ones that do have miniscule amounts.
Secondly, the IUD is effective for longer than any other birth control. It is good for up to seven years and extremely low maintenence. You insert it, go in for a check-up, and then you are responsible for checking your strings every month or so. That’s it! No schedule, no skipped pills, nothing. It’s a one and done deal. Not only are IUD’s effective for lengthy periods of time, but they also provide women a rapid recovery to fertility. So if you ever do want to have a baby, you can get pregnant in as little as 24 hours after having your IUD removed.
Now all these facts sound great, but what’s the real experience with an IUD? I’m here to tell you that it’s absolutely incredible. I’ve had no noticeable mood changes, no weight gain, my skin is clearing up, and I now have extremely light periods. Although side effects may differ between women, I truly believe IUDs are the best birth control option. Of course, talk to your doctor to discuss options about what may be best for you.
So if you’ve been debating about whether or not to get an IUD, here is your sign to get one. I know I don’t regret it!