Does anyone have any experiences with Paragard that they would like to share? I'm trying to find a new BC method and am curious about the copper IUD.
Birth Control
I have the Mirena IUD. I would've preferred the copper coil because I seem extraordinarily sensitive to hormones, but it's been better than the different pills I've taken. It's a really cool option, and even if you haven't had kids they can put one int if you are in a monogamous relationship.
I was first prescribed Ortho Tricyclen, and after complaining of breast tenderness, Ortho Tricyclen Lo, which was better, but after about 6 months my boyfriend noticed severe personality changes and I was always unhappy.
I moved away and tried Yasmin, which was the worst of them all. My skin was beautiful actually, but my sex drive was DEAD, and I was constantly crying when I was alone. Basically it made me really depressed.
The doc prescribed Loestrin 24 Fe next, and that was better than the Yasmin, but worse than the Ortho. I felt so much better off the pills than on, but I never figured out it was the pills until Yasmin.
The Mirena probably has my sexual function more normal than it has been in a few years, but I still have negligible sex drive, but for some people the up side is lighter periods :-( Though I think it might've wanted to move out of place one night because I was in a lot of pain, but haven't been since then.
I would've liked to try the nuvaring before going to the IUD.
I was first prescribed Ortho Tricyclen, and after complaining of breast tenderness, Ortho Tricyclen Lo, which was better, but after about 6 months my boyfriend noticed severe personality changes and I was always unhappy.
I moved away and tried Yasmin, which was the worst of them all. My skin was beautiful actually, but my sex drive was DEAD, and I was constantly crying when I was alone. Basically it made me really depressed.
The doc prescribed Loestrin 24 Fe next, and that was better than the Yasmin, but worse than the Ortho. I felt so much better off the pills than on, but I never figured out it was the pills until Yasmin.
The Mirena probably has my sexual function more normal than it has been in a few years, but I still have negligible sex drive, but for some people the up side is lighter periods :-( Though I think it might've wanted to move out of place one night because I was in a lot of pain, but haven't been since then.
I would've liked to try the nuvaring before going to the IUD.
03/17/2009
To anyone who hasnt had children and wants an IUD- the only reason most doctors do not recommend it is because with childbirth your cervix has dilated naturally beyond 5 cm.. when they insert it they have to dilate your cervix at the doctor's office which can be an incredibly painful procedure if you've never been through childbirth.
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
03/17/2009
Quote:
They had me use a pill at the top of a tampon half an hour before the appointment to dilate my cervix ahead of time Not sure what it was, but people usually take it internally for gasrtointestinal problems. Someone happened to discover other uses for it. The insertion was very uncomfortable, like really really bad cramps, but it would have been much worse without it.
Originally posted by
Sleeping Dreamer
To anyone who hasnt had children and wants an IUD- the only reason most doctors do not recommend it is because with childbirth your cervix has dilated naturally beyond 5 cm.. when they insert it they have to dilate your cervix at the doctor's office
...
To anyone who hasnt had children and wants an IUD- the only reason most doctors do not recommend it is because with childbirth your cervix has dilated naturally beyond 5 cm.. when they insert it they have to dilate your cervix at the doctor's office which can be an incredibly painful procedure if you've never been through childbirth.
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
I get the impression some doctors are better at putting them in than others based on some of the issues people have had with them. Plus, some uteruses are shaped and positioned differently, so it may be more difficult to insert for some.
03/17/2009
Just started the NuvaRing and I'd like to say it's immediately better this time around. When I used it once before I hadn't had sex yet, but now I have, and I think there's more room in there for the ring to sit. Either that, or I'm just actually placing it right this time. I haven't felt it move at all yet. I recommend it so far, but it's only been a few days.
05/02/2009
RoxieRiot
I've had the Mirena IUD for about 3 months now, and I am SO happy with it.
As a nulliparous woman with a latex problem and a terrible history with pills, I was desperate. I mean, really... bleeding during sex and painful urination for days afterward thanks to condoms? No thanks.
My insertion wasn't actually that bad. I went to Planned Parenthood, and they gave me Misoprostol (I think that's how you spell it) to put in my vagina 10-12 hours before the procedure. It dilated my cervix; it's the same stuff they use for abortions, actually. It made my a bit crampy, but it made my visit to the clinic pretty painless. It certainly felt weird to have my cervix grabbed and my uterus measured, but those only took a few seconds each. I didn't actually know my IUD was in until the clinician started taking the speculum out!
I had some mild cramping for the next day or two, and a bit of spotting for a couple weeks, but it's been so worth it. Sex can be so spontaneous now!
As for the Paraguard... I was initially leaning toward it, but eventually decided against it due to its nickel core. I've had problems with nickel before, and I didn't want to chance it. It seems like it would be a great option, though! It lasts twice as long without any of the hormones.
I would recommend checking out the IUD Divas group on LiveJournal if you're interested in reading more personal experiences with either the Mirena or the Paraguard.
As a nulliparous woman with a latex problem and a terrible history with pills, I was desperate. I mean, really... bleeding during sex and painful urination for days afterward thanks to condoms? No thanks.
My insertion wasn't actually that bad. I went to Planned Parenthood, and they gave me Misoprostol (I think that's how you spell it) to put in my vagina 10-12 hours before the procedure. It dilated my cervix; it's the same stuff they use for abortions, actually. It made my a bit crampy, but it made my visit to the clinic pretty painless. It certainly felt weird to have my cervix grabbed and my uterus measured, but those only took a few seconds each. I didn't actually know my IUD was in until the clinician started taking the speculum out!
I had some mild cramping for the next day or two, and a bit of spotting for a couple weeks, but it's been so worth it. Sex can be so spontaneous now!
As for the Paraguard... I was initially leaning toward it, but eventually decided against it due to its nickel core. I've had problems with nickel before, and I didn't want to chance it. It seems like it would be a great option, though! It lasts twice as long without any of the hormones.
I would recommend checking out the IUD Divas group on LiveJournal if you're interested in reading more personal experiences with either the Mirena or the Paraguard.
05/03/2009
Quote:
I personally use the patch but I tried nuvaring after my last pregnancy and I had a problem with it staying in. I tried it a few months, but it never stayed it. I used it after my first pregnancy and it stayed it and worked marvelously. So, it is personal preference. I recommend the patch, but with that being said my doctors say I really should be on it because I am slightly over weight.. and it is less effective on over weight people.
Originally posted by
Sleeping Dreamer
In the past 5 years I've gone through more brands than I could possibly name, I've finally found one that I can stick with (well, not NOW because my husband and I are actually TTC) but that was Nuvaring. Do any ladies or men out there have
...
In the past 5 years I've gone through more brands than I could possibly name, I've finally found one that I can stick with (well, not NOW because my husband and I are actually TTC) but that was Nuvaring. Do any ladies or men out there have preferences of what you or your partner uses?
05/07/2009
Quote:
I had the same kind of experience with Mirena. It was a horrible 8 months with it & a bumpy year afterwards while my body adjusted back to normal. Now we use male condoms, but are considering my husband getting a vascectomy.
Originally posted by
Sleeping Dreamer
The ring did the opposite my first month using it; I actually felt WETTER. I was hornier, I was wetter, and the sex was just amazing the first month we used it.
I had the Mirena IUD, I love to hear positive experiences but mine ended in a lot ...
I had the Mirena IUD, I love to hear positive experiences but mine ended in a lot ...
The ring did the opposite my first month using it; I actually felt WETTER. I was hornier, I was wetter, and the sex was just amazing the first month we used it.
I had the Mirena IUD, I love to hear positive experiences but mine ended in a lot of heart ache. I had it in for 6 months, when I had it removed they realized it either wasn't put in right, it had shifted, or my body tried desperately to reject the damn thing. I had constant pain the entire time I had it in and pain for well over a year afterward. Never again.
I had the Mirena IUD, I love to hear positive experiences but mine ended in a lot of heart ache. I had it in for 6 months, when I had it removed they realized it either wasn't put in right, it had shifted, or my body tried desperately to reject the damn thing. I had constant pain the entire time I had it in and pain for well over a year afterward. Never again.
05/07/2009
Quote:
190 lbs is when it starts becoming less effective.
Originally posted by
aburnett
I personally use the patch but I tried nuvaring after my last pregnancy and I had a problem with it staying in. I tried it a few months, but it never stayed it. I used it after my first pregnancy and it stayed it and worked marvelously. So, it is
...
I personally use the patch but I tried nuvaring after my last pregnancy and I had a problem with it staying in. I tried it a few months, but it never stayed it. I used it after my first pregnancy and it stayed it and worked marvelously. So, it is personal preference. I recommend the patch, but with that being said my doctors say I really should be on it because I am slightly over weight.. and it is less effective on over weight people.
I tried the patch too and unfortunately, it has been shown to have a very high rate of blood clots as well.
05/07/2009
Quote:
We considered a vasectomy but I urge you, don't do it!!! I changed my mind, I was dead set on not wanting more children and he even scheduled an appointment but when we saw my cousin's daughter we move completely changed our minds.
Originally posted by
NaughtyButterfly
I had the same kind of experience with Mirena. It was a horrible 8 months with it & a bumpy year afterwards while my body adjusted back to normal. Now we use male condoms, but are considering my husband getting a vascectomy.
05/07/2009
Quote:
If you go for a vasectomy, be very sure you don't want any more kids.
Originally posted by
NaughtyButterfly
I had the same kind of experience with Mirena. It was a horrible 8 months with it & a bumpy year afterwards while my body adjusted back to normal. Now we use male condoms, but are considering my husband getting a vascectomy.
My husband got one about 5 years ago, and it was a great decision for us - two kids was enough, but if you think you will ever want more, ever, it's not the way to go.
05/07/2009
Just an update, and another option. I still give rave reviews on the NuvaRing because I loved it so much. But, after havin my son, I had trouble keeping my ring in. (I think my cervix moved lower after birth?) I went about 3 weeks ago and had an Implanon put into my arm. It's a 3 year implant. Visually, you can't tell that it's there, but you can feel it if you rub your finger over it. It's on the upper inside of my left arm. The insertion was rather painless, the worst part was the numbing shot. So far, I love it. The only side effect that I've noticed, and it might be mental, but the skin over the implant seems to itch a lot. Other than that, I'm very please.
05/17/2009
I've been on Nuvaring for a couple of months now, and I love it. It's so musch easier than pills. All I need to remember is what day to take it out on. For me it's really easy to get in and it stays in really well. You don't even have to really put it in any certain way and it tends to just situate itself. I have had to take it out a few times during sex because my husband could feel it (you can leave it out for up to three hours), but it hasn't been a big problem.
05/18/2009
Quote:
This was the first I heard of dilation! The doctor didn't give me anything or even mention it and I was in/out in 15 minutes, tops, so it makes me wonder if they just shoved it up there? Heh.
Originally posted by
Sleeping Dreamer
To anyone who hasnt had children and wants an IUD- the only reason most doctors do not recommend it is because with childbirth your cervix has dilated naturally beyond 5 cm.. when they insert it they have to dilate your cervix at the doctor's office
...
To anyone who hasnt had children and wants an IUD- the only reason most doctors do not recommend it is because with childbirth your cervix has dilated naturally beyond 5 cm.. when they insert it they have to dilate your cervix at the doctor's office which can be an incredibly painful procedure if you've never been through childbirth.
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
Also, I found this bit of info;
"Women who are nulliparous (never been pregnant) have a much thicker, stiffer, inflexible uterine muscle wall than women who have had at least one full-term pregnancy. It is because of this that most doctors will NOT insert an IUD for a nulliparous woman.
The consequences are often spontaneous expulsion (loss) of the device, or uterine puncture which can sometimes require an emergency hysterectomy and often emergency surgery, and often much more severe cramping.
20% of all IUD users will end up having their device removed before 12 months' time because of medical complications or severe side effects."
Anyway, that's also not the reason I hear against insertion for a nulliparous woman. Everyone I have talked to said it was because of the possibility of something going wrong and scar tissue interfering with future pregnancy.
05/18/2009
Wow, some really excellent posts here. My own experience with birth control has been unpleasant. I was shocked after about a year on a low dose hormone pill when I started realizing that suddenly I didn't like sex. My experience isn't typical, but it also isn't really disclosed how radically a hormone can affect your sex drive (though in retrospect, it does seem kinda obvious). I had also noticed some subtle but troubling personality changes - rare but intense and really disturbing mood swings (the man got out of the apartment before I started throwing things at him, and I literally had to go lock myself in the bedroom for an hour to calm down - I knew my emotional response didn't make sense, but I couldn't calm down, and that was scary), and a general listlessness and major drop in energy. I just didn't want to DO anything, and I slept a LOT. Ever since I was a kid, I've been a natural insomniac - going 100 miles an hour and sometimes not sleeping. It was decidedly weird that I suddenly needed 12 hours a night and could never feel fully awake.
When I'm "normal" I have no problems lubricating or dilating naturally and I can go at least twice a day. On the pill, my sex drive dropped to zero, I couldn't get aroused enough to lubricate or dilate, and as a result sex was painful and I literally could not pee afterward unless I had a very full bladder. Likewise, I got more bladder infections and was popping two giant cranberry pills every time we'd have sex. Not especially fun.
I was so scared that I wouldn't be able to get my sex drive back and that I wouldn't really be the same again, but I finished my last pill pack and about a month later, I started returning to normal. Three months in, and ... well, I joined edenfantasys and I bought a shit load of toys. That should sort of give you some indication
This is such an interesting topic to me as an open and sexual woman. It's bizarre that the medications available to prevent child conception do so effectively in more ways than we bargain for. It's great to see so many women talking about it in a forum setting.
We're currently using male condoms which aren't great, but certainly a LOT better than a hormonal solution.
When I'm "normal" I have no problems lubricating or dilating naturally and I can go at least twice a day. On the pill, my sex drive dropped to zero, I couldn't get aroused enough to lubricate or dilate, and as a result sex was painful and I literally could not pee afterward unless I had a very full bladder. Likewise, I got more bladder infections and was popping two giant cranberry pills every time we'd have sex. Not especially fun.
I was so scared that I wouldn't be able to get my sex drive back and that I wouldn't really be the same again, but I finished my last pill pack and about a month later, I started returning to normal. Three months in, and ... well, I joined edenfantasys and I bought a shit load of toys. That should sort of give you some indication
This is such an interesting topic to me as an open and sexual woman. It's bizarre that the medications available to prevent child conception do so effectively in more ways than we bargain for. It's great to see so many women talking about it in a forum setting.
We're currently using male condoms which aren't great, but certainly a LOT better than a hormonal solution.
05/20/2009
Nuvaring is the first birth control I've tried. I had to take anti depressants as a teenager and I couldn't remember to take them for the life of me, so this was a good choice. The other options for me included implants and the depo-shot, but both of those have a high risk of bone loss as side effect and I'm already at risk for it. Also, being a pharmacy technician I had learned that Nuvaring actually has the lowest dose of hormones of any contraceptive, including OTC-lo. Yay Nuvaring!
It might be a problem for some that you have to keep it in the fridge, if you have a job like a flight attendant. I wonder what they do...
It might be a problem for some that you have to keep it in the fridge, if you have a job like a flight attendant. I wonder what they do...
05/20/2009
Quote:
They could probably get special clearance to keep it in a medical supplies fridge, or in a cold compartment in the lower part of the plane.
Originally posted by
Pumpkin Lady
Nuvaring is the first birth control I've tried. I had to take anti depressants as a teenager and I couldn't remember to take them for the life of me, so this was a good choice. The other options for me included implants and the depo-shot, but both of
...
Nuvaring is the first birth control I've tried. I had to take anti depressants as a teenager and I couldn't remember to take them for the life of me, so this was a good choice. The other options for me included implants and the depo-shot, but both of those have a high risk of bone loss as side effect and I'm already at risk for it. Also, being a pharmacy technician I had learned that Nuvaring actually has the lowest dose of hormones of any contraceptive, including OTC-lo. Yay Nuvaring!
It might be a problem for some that you have to keep it in the fridge, if you have a job like a flight attendant. I wonder what they do...
It might be a problem for some that you have to keep it in the fridge, if you have a job like a flight attendant. I wonder what they do...
05/20/2009
Another great note, with Nuvaring you have the option to skip your periods, to only get four per year. You typically have that option with any BC, unless maybe it's one of the Tri-Cyclins because of the fluctuating hormone levels.
Many women don't know about this option, or think you can only do it with Seasonale/Seasonique/J ovilette... ask your doctor!
When I used Nuvaring continuously (change ring every month, no "out" week) I had some spotting that lasted for like a month because it just really wanted to come out. So you have to listen to your body, I don't get four periods a year, I get six. Everything depends. I'm not complaining, it's still too cool!
Many women don't know about this option, or think you can only do it with Seasonale/Seasonique/J ovilette... ask your doctor!
When I used Nuvaring continuously (change ring every month, no "out" week) I had some spotting that lasted for like a month because it just really wanted to come out. So you have to listen to your body, I don't get four periods a year, I get six. Everything depends. I'm not complaining, it's still too cool!
05/20/2009
I've been on Yaz for almost three years now. It was the first pill I've ever tried, and I don't THINK I've witnessed any nasty side effects. I'm somewhat curious to try another pill but don't see much point when mine is working just fine.
There was a point in which I wondered if it was killing my libido, but it's not true for me. Having my man 1,000 miles away is what pretty much kills it. Toys help, though.
IUDs sound really cool, but the thought of having something in me makes me nervous. I'll probably go that route when/if BC becomes too unaffordable.
There was a point in which I wondered if it was killing my libido, but it's not true for me. Having my man 1,000 miles away is what pretty much kills it. Toys help, though.
IUDs sound really cool, but the thought of having something in me makes me nervous. I'll probably go that route when/if BC becomes too unaffordable.
05/20/2009
Quote:
I feel exactly the same way, giggled. I think I am getting my IUD out in August because I just don't feel "normal" anymore. Though I don't think I know WHAT normal is at this point. It's very detrimental psychologically to wonder if you're normal or if there's something wrong with you, because it can't be the pills if the doctor prescribed them, right?
Originally posted by
giggled
Wow, some really excellent posts here. My own experience with birth control has been unpleasant. I was shocked after about a year on a low dose hormone pill when I started realizing that suddenly I didn't like sex. My experience isn't typical, but it
...
Wow, some really excellent posts here. My own experience with birth control has been unpleasant. I was shocked after about a year on a low dose hormone pill when I started realizing that suddenly I didn't like sex. My experience isn't typical, but it also isn't really disclosed how radically a hormone can affect your sex drive (though in retrospect, it does seem kinda obvious). I had also noticed some subtle but troubling personality changes - rare but intense and really disturbing mood swings (the man got out of the apartment before I started throwing things at him, and I literally had to go lock myself in the bedroom for an hour to calm down - I knew my emotional response didn't make sense, but I couldn't calm down, and that was scary), and a general listlessness and major drop in energy. I just didn't want to DO anything, and I slept a LOT. Ever since I was a kid, I've been a natural insomniac - going 100 miles an hour and sometimes not sleeping. It was decidedly weird that I suddenly needed 12 hours a night and could never feel fully awake.
When I'm "normal" I have no problems lubricating or dilating naturally and I can go at least twice a day. On the pill, my sex drive dropped to zero, I couldn't get aroused enough to lubricate or dilate, and as a result sex was painful and I literally could not pee afterward unless I had a very full bladder. Likewise, I got more bladder infections and was popping two giant cranberry pills every time we'd have sex. Not especially fun.
I was so scared that I wouldn't be able to get my sex drive back and that I wouldn't really be the same again, but I finished my last pill pack and about a month later, I started returning to normal. Three months in, and ... well, I joined edenfantasys and I bought a shit load of toys. That should sort of give you some indication
This is such an interesting topic to me as an open and sexual woman. It's bizarre that the medications available to prevent child conception do so effectively in more ways than we bargain for. It's great to see so many women talking about it in a forum setting.
We're currently using male condoms which aren't great, but certainly a LOT better than a hormonal solution.
When I'm "normal" I have no problems lubricating or dilating naturally and I can go at least twice a day. On the pill, my sex drive dropped to zero, I couldn't get aroused enough to lubricate or dilate, and as a result sex was painful and I literally could not pee afterward unless I had a very full bladder. Likewise, I got more bladder infections and was popping two giant cranberry pills every time we'd have sex. Not especially fun.
I was so scared that I wouldn't be able to get my sex drive back and that I wouldn't really be the same again, but I finished my last pill pack and about a month later, I started returning to normal. Three months in, and ... well, I joined edenfantasys and I bought a shit load of toys. That should sort of give you some indication
This is such an interesting topic to me as an open and sexual woman. It's bizarre that the medications available to prevent child conception do so effectively in more ways than we bargain for. It's great to see so many women talking about it in a forum setting.
We're currently using male condoms which aren't great, but certainly a LOT better than a hormonal solution.
All the hormone tweaking can cause other issues. I've been having digestive trouble since going off the pills and switching to the IUD, due to digestive flora imbalance most likely. Birth control pills and antibiotics are risk factors for those kinds of issues. Mess with one hormone and you throw the entire body out of balance it seems.
05/20/2009
Quote:
The IUD concept is really cool, but it is a foreign object and very rarely it can perforate your uterus. It becomes cost effective after 10 months to a year if you figure $30 per month for whatever else you would have instead. It's even more affordable if you wait the recommended 3-5 years before removing it or getting it replaced (for Mirena). The copper coil you can wear longer.
Originally posted by
Lithaewyn
I've been on Yaz for almost three years now. It was the first pill I've ever tried, and I don't THINK I've witnessed any nasty side effects. I'm somewhat curious to try another pill but don't see much point when mine is working just
...
I've been on Yaz for almost three years now. It was the first pill I've ever tried, and I don't THINK I've witnessed any nasty side effects. I'm somewhat curious to try another pill but don't see much point when mine is working just fine.
There was a point in which I wondered if it was killing my libido, but it's not true for me. Having my man 1,000 miles away is what pretty much kills it. Toys help, though.
IUDs sound really cool, but the thought of having something in me makes me nervous. I'll probably go that route when/if BC becomes too unaffordable.
There was a point in which I wondered if it was killing my libido, but it's not true for me. Having my man 1,000 miles away is what pretty much kills it. Toys help, though.
IUDs sound really cool, but the thought of having something in me makes me nervous. I'll probably go that route when/if BC becomes too unaffordable.
The cost is going to be higher with the labor part of it to insert but the device is a few hundred dollars. My insurance paid for it, but I never tried to get it to pay for my pills. I would check on the side effects though, if you do decide to get one in the future. I've read a lot about it being really painful to take out because it lightens or stops your periods, so your cervical opening closes a bit and makes it more painful the longer you have it in. Everyone is different though, so it's hard to tell what your reaction would be.
05/20/2009
Quote:
Maybe this is too personal, but I wonder what kind of digestive problems? This piques my interest because I've heard nothing about it from other people.
Originally posted by
Renewing Desire
I feel exactly the same way, giggled. I think I am getting my IUD out in August because I just don't feel "normal" anymore. Though I don't think I know WHAT normal is at this point. It's very detrimental psychologically to wonder if you're normal
...
I feel exactly the same way, giggled. I think I am getting my IUD out in August because I just don't feel "normal" anymore. Though I don't think I know WHAT normal is at this point. It's very detrimental psychologically to wonder if you're normal or if there's something wrong with you, because it can't be the pills if the doctor prescribed them, right?
All the hormone tweaking can cause other issues. I've been having digestive trouble since going off the pills and switching to the IUD, due to digestive flora imbalance most likely. Birth control pills and antibiotics are risk factors for those kinds of issues. Mess with one hormone and you throw the entire body out of balance it seems.
All the hormone tweaking can cause other issues. I've been having digestive trouble since going off the pills and switching to the IUD, due to digestive flora imbalance most likely. Birth control pills and antibiotics are risk factors for those kinds of issues. Mess with one hormone and you throw the entire body out of balance it seems.
05/20/2009
Quote:
It's mostly a lot of gas, cramping, and general bowel abnormality from my "normal" functioning before things started being out of whack. I used to be pretty regular, and now consistency and frequency are unpredictable. I have also suddenly become lactose intolerant in the last 1.5 years, but that can also be induced by bouts of food poising, which I have had. I don't think that's related to the BC.
Originally posted by
Adriana Ravenlust
Maybe this is too personal, but I wonder what kind of digestive problems? This piques my interest because I've heard nothing about it from other people.
Honestly, I am going to an acupuncturist for my digestion (don't think I'm crazy please!) and she says my intestinal bacteria balance is disrupted, which is common with hormonal birth control and antibiotic use, though it's obvious not a foregone conclusion for everyone (antibiotics kill the good stuff as well as the bad, and we need the good stuff to digest properly).
I have always been hormone sensitive as I have mild adult cyclic acne, meaning in some parts of my monthly cycle my acne gets worse, then better, then worse, etc. Unfortunately that also means in my teens they had me take tetracycline, monocycline, and other antiobiotics. Unfortunately the BC pills made the acne better, but killed my sex drive - something to do with testosterone binding according to my husband. The same thing that makes me have a sex drive causes my acne.
Overall my stomach and skin have been improving since I have changed my diet and started using natural shower products, as well as probiotics. Now however my doc is looking at possible liver or gall bladder imbalances on account of the gas. The liver filters the hormones in the bloodstream so BC pills just make it work harder (not in the nuvaring or patch as much since the hormones don't have to go through your stomach to be absorbed first, that's why they can have lower doses of hormones).
Sorry about the essay...did that answer your question?
05/20/2009
Quote:
This is so useful - I had similar digestive problems, but not as severe - just a lot of irregularity, pain and feeling like I had cramps ALL the time. I didn't have a lot of gas, but man, I just couldn't GO. I also had waaaay more bladder infections and all in all, everything was just really screwed up down there. I'd also have not food poisoning, but just feeling really nauseated at random. Not good times.
Originally posted by
Renewing Desire
It's mostly a lot of gas, cramping, and general bowel abnormality from my "normal" functioning before things started being out of whack. I used to be pretty regular, and now consistency and frequency are unpredictable. I have also suddenly become
...
It's mostly a lot of gas, cramping, and general bowel abnormality from my "normal" functioning before things started being out of whack. I used to be pretty regular, and now consistency and frequency are unpredictable. I have also suddenly become lactose intolerant in the last 1.5 years, but that can also be induced by bouts of food poising, which I have had. I don't think that's related to the BC.
Honestly, I am going to an acupuncturist for my digestion (don't think I'm crazy please!) and she says my intestinal bacteria balance is disrupted, which is common with hormonal birth control and antibiotic use, though it's obvious not a foregone conclusion for everyone (antibiotics kill the good stuff as well as the bad, and we need the good stuff to digest properly).
I have always been hormone sensitive as I have mild adult cyclic acne, meaning in some parts of my monthly cycle my acne gets worse, then better, then worse, etc. Unfortunately that also means in my teens they had me take tetracycline, monocycline, and other antiobiotics. Unfortunately the BC pills made the acne better, but killed my sex drive - something to do with testosterone binding according to my husband. The same thing that makes me have a sex drive causes my acne.
Overall my stomach and skin have been improving since I have changed my diet and started using natural shower products, as well as probiotics. Now however my doc is looking at possible liver or gall bladder imbalances on account of the gas. The liver filters the hormones in the bloodstream so BC pills just make it work harder (not in the nuvaring or patch as much since the hormones don't have to go through your stomach to be absorbed first, that's why they can have lower doses of hormones).
Sorry about the essay...did that answer your question?
Honestly, I am going to an acupuncturist for my digestion (don't think I'm crazy please!) and she says my intestinal bacteria balance is disrupted, which is common with hormonal birth control and antibiotic use, though it's obvious not a foregone conclusion for everyone (antibiotics kill the good stuff as well as the bad, and we need the good stuff to digest properly).
I have always been hormone sensitive as I have mild adult cyclic acne, meaning in some parts of my monthly cycle my acne gets worse, then better, then worse, etc. Unfortunately that also means in my teens they had me take tetracycline, monocycline, and other antiobiotics. Unfortunately the BC pills made the acne better, but killed my sex drive - something to do with testosterone binding according to my husband. The same thing that makes me have a sex drive causes my acne.
Overall my stomach and skin have been improving since I have changed my diet and started using natural shower products, as well as probiotics. Now however my doc is looking at possible liver or gall bladder imbalances on account of the gas. The liver filters the hormones in the bloodstream so BC pills just make it work harder (not in the nuvaring or patch as much since the hormones don't have to go through your stomach to be absorbed first, that's why they can have lower doses of hormones).
Sorry about the essay...did that answer your question?
It's such a huge relief to be off the hormones, I can't begin to tell you. I feel better mentally and physically and I'm starting to have a really fantastic adult sex life. It's amazing to sexually feel sixteen again but have an adult brain, body and man to go with it.
05/20/2009
Quote:
I was on Loestrin 24 Fe for almost 3 years, and until the last few months, I loved it. During those last few months, I started getting side effects that weren't much fun (no lubrication at all, and almost no sex drive), so it's worth keeping an eye out for side effects as time goes on. I'm not trying to scare you off Loestrin, until that last bit it was a wonder-drug for me, nothing else has worked as well for me since. (the original reason for me starting hormonal BC was to all but stop my periods, because I was almost anemic from the bleeding)
Originally posted by
Backseat Boohoo
Still on Loestrin 24 FE, still loving it. My only complaint is that it's so goddamn expensive--$70 for 3 packs WITH insurance.
Cost was another issue with Loestrin. Even though I'm lucky to have amazing insurance, it's still $45 for 3 packs because it's not a generic. I hope they come out with a generic soon, to bring down the cost for you!
05/20/2009
Quote:
I've heard stuff like that about a lot of varieties of birth control; it's almost like your body gets acclimated, then gets sick of it after a couple of years. Hopefully, my hormones will be regulated enough that I can get off of BC for a while in a couple of years, then start up again when I need it.
Originally posted by
Luscious Lily
I was on Loestrin 24 Fe for almost 3 years, and until the last few months, I loved it. During those last few months, I started getting side effects that weren't much fun (no lubrication at all, and almost no sex drive), so it's worth keeping an eye
...
I was on Loestrin 24 Fe for almost 3 years, and until the last few months, I loved it. During those last few months, I started getting side effects that weren't much fun (no lubrication at all, and almost no sex drive), so it's worth keeping an eye out for side effects as time goes on. I'm not trying to scare you off Loestrin, until that last bit it was a wonder-drug for me, nothing else has worked as well for me since. (the original reason for me starting hormonal BC was to all but stop my periods, because I was almost anemic from the bleeding)
Cost was another issue with Loestrin. Even though I'm lucky to have amazing insurance, it's still $45 for 3 packs because it's not a generic. I hope they come out with a generic soon, to bring down the cost for you!
Cost was another issue with Loestrin. Even though I'm lucky to have amazing insurance, it's still $45 for 3 packs because it's not a generic. I hope they come out with a generic soon, to bring down the cost for you!
05/20/2009
Quote:
I hope so! For me, if I have to go off of birth control, the doses of iron I'd have to take would be too dangerous to go on for very long (my maintenance dosage, while on BC, is already about 300% DV on top of a balanced diet, so I'm getting 400% DV each day) So I've got my fingers crossed for Yaz. So far, so good.
Originally posted by
Backseat Boohoo
I've heard stuff like that about a lot of varieties of birth control; it's almost like your body gets acclimated, then gets sick of it after a couple of years. Hopefully, my hormones will be regulated enough that I can get off of BC for a while in a
...
I've heard stuff like that about a lot of varieties of birth control; it's almost like your body gets acclimated, then gets sick of it after a couple of years. Hopefully, my hormones will be regulated enough that I can get off of BC for a while in a couple of years, then start up again when I need it.
05/20/2009
I currently take Femcon- and have for years. It's great- even chewable, which I thought 'seriously? how stupid! CHEWABLE??' but it's great for the days you're up and out earlier than usual and don't have a drink- just chew it. It has a light minty flavor, not horrible like I expected. My husband and I do not want children, never really have wanted them. He had a vasectomy in October of 08 and, zero complications and do not regret it. He had it done because I will be coming off bc soon- I have a HIGH rate of cancer in my family, so not the best idea to take it beyond a certain age...
06/17/2009