Korean Job Discussion Forums

Omkara · Joined: 18 Feb 2006 Location: USA

I have read that it is a highly effective method that lasts form five to ten years. But what is it like getting one, living with one? What are the advantages and disadvantages?

maeil · Joined: 09 Jan 2006 Location: Haebangchon

I'll just say what's on the top of my head... I did a little bit of research on them a while back.

From what I understand there are two types, copper and plastic. The copper one is non-hormonal, the plastic is hormonal. The copper one is said to make your periods heavier and more painful. The plastic one is said to make them practically nonexistant.

I've also heard conflicting reports that some doctors won't insert them into women who haven't had children, while some people report getting them with no problem.

A friend had a copper one inserted, as she couldn't handle birth control hormones, and she suffered quite a bit through her first few periods. I'm not sure how she's doing with it now.

That's all I know. Smile

The plastic one sounds appealing, but I never followed up with where/how/how much etc.

Dazed and Confused · Joined: 10 Jan 2003

I had the copper IUD inserted and removed twice. It was effective.
The insertion is very painful but it beats taking a pill everyday and the side effects of hormonal contraceptives. I would just head to the nearest TGI Fridays and get a Long Island Iced Tea to numb the pain. Having it removed is fairly painless. Your periods are alot heavier and at times the cramps would stop me in my tracks. However, I had other problems going on that could have contributed to them. Overall I was happy with my IUD.

Omkara · Joined: 18 Feb 2006 Location: USA

Thanks!

Kikomom · Posted: Thu Aug 07, 2008 8:45 pm Post subject:

I had an IUD for about two days many many moons ago (back in my 20's). I don't know if it was a blotch job or what, but I was doubled up in bed those whole two days until I dragged myself to the ER and told the doc there, "See that string? Pull it out!" He complied and the relief was instantaneous.

I didn't have that kind of pain again until childbirth.

Maybe it was just me though, because I only lasted a couple weeks on the pill before I started having charlie horses and nah ah, I wasn't putting up with that either.

Still, no one should have unprotected sex unless you're in a totally monogamous relationship. Mamakiko's reminder to stay safe. Wink

Incidently, after giving birth, I never had another menstrual cramp again.