IUDs Are Pretty Great. So Why Aren't They More Popular?

[@WesternBache]

My IUD is a goddamn DREAM. Uncomfortable during insertion but my cramps are gone and I have minimal spotting every 2-3 months. 10/10, would recommend

[@SkyeID]

+Alexis Crow For me, the post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping at my uterus with its claws! I was in bed for 2 days, weeping profusely :-/ I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up!

[@FuzzCutieNerd]

+Skye ID I totally feel you. I bled for a month and had horrible cramps after. According to my doctor that was 'normal' and there as nothing to be done. Maybe there should be a video about how the only remedy for uterine-related pain is suck-it-up-and-wait?

[@WesternBache]

Rowan Morran " I bled for a month and had horrible cramps after." me too, but I had medication for the pain and the benefits faaaaaar outweighed the pain and bleeding. I got it to eliminate my period, as I require a caretaker and who wants to have someone else deal with that?

[@WesternBache]

Skye ID I'm so sorry that happened!

[@Mel-id7yq]

Did you get a hormonal or copper one?

[@CygnusExOne]

The doctor seems so enthusiastic that now even I want to get an IUD, and I'm a guy!

[@CashAndSpanglish]

Lol!!!

[@Vanalovan]

Me too! We can go to the doctor together!

[@CygnusExOne]

+Vanalovan Totes, dude. Safety in numbers! Let's see how many we can fit in there.

[@DanielMosey]

+Milewide If I could get one (I'm a male) then I would as well!

[@tiffanywilsonkeesey4281]

Replace the word "cervex" with "scrotum," and tell me how excited you feel. Lady bits have lots of nerve endings too, don't forget.

[@makale83]

I have an IUD, side effects include: Chronic bacterial vaginosis, chronic yeast infections, joint pain in all of my joints, weight gain, inability to lose weight, and some weird rash on my face. I'm done!! Getting it out tomorrow, can't wait.

[@DevonDowner]

I’m 22 and just got my first IUD last year! They have a new, smaller one for women that have not given birth yet which is amazing. I feel even safer now that I’ve watched this video and know the stats.

[@liviareyna6704]

where do you reside

[@crankysister]

I love having an IUD, but getting it inserted was the worst freaking pain in my life. And I've donated a kidney. The IUD insertion was more painful than recovering from that surgery. But after the first 48 hours, the pain went away. I DO think doctors need to do more to help women with the pain of insertion. When I get mine replaced, I'm going to request to go under twilight sleep. If that became commonplace, then I think they would be much more popular.

[@heather4950]

I feel that the risk of ectopic pregnancy with IUDs was not adequately discussed, nor was the mention that some women are not morphologically well suited for insertion of an IUD

[@asmrtpop2676]

Right. And let’s be real...the pill can be stopped immediately if needed, without a doctor appointment. Also the combo pill is much more wide a window of “when” to take it; it’s the mini pill that must be taken at the same time within the hour. Lastly, something most women don’t know, is they CAN get pregnant during their placebo week especially if their period doesn’t start for several days into that week! This is really common in AFAB people like myself who take it partially to be regular. But during that week I’m essentially not taking the pill! So my body goes to how it likes to be super late. So I could get pregnant. So...I just avoid PIV sex that week and enjoy any other sex.

[@amye.8000]

There's a pattern - with each new point he makes he calmly starts with the negatives and then enthusiastically jumps in with the positives which helps to gloss over the negatives. Also...why doesn't he mention the upkeep that's necessary for an IUD? Like fingering yourself after every period to make sure the strings are still there to make sure the damn thing hasn't migrated upward. Or the three month ultrasound or any of the other numerous Dr. visits that it entails. I also like how he says "The copper kind slowly release copper ions all over the uterus." But then doesn't point out that those copper ions make it difficult for the human body to absorb iron and zinc which most women are lacking in to begin with resulting in fatigue, those severe cramps that a lot of women talk about and every so often depression. "Both types of IUDs make it very inhospitable for sperm." What other things are they making it inhospitable for?

[@WesternBache]

@@amye.8000 I haven't had to get any ultrasounds and I am on my second iud. "What other things are they making it inhospitable for?" um. An embryo, which is kind of the point. Maybe the IUD isn't for you?

[@amye.8000]

@@WesternBache No. And I only commented for the betterment of safe health care. But I get it, I'll hold my peace now.

[@brycemcqueen5922]

Yep, my kid was just taken into emergency surgery last night for that exact thing.

[@MISSPHOTOGENICBABY]

Do you know what it feels like to get one!??🙄

[@moonrox4481]

It hurts, but I recommend!

[@SaharaKnoblauch]

my first thought 😅

[@ih1173]

For me it was really not uncomfortable at all 😊I think it just depends on the person, everyone is different

[@littlechery1]

It feels like period cramps along with some pressure and an “open” feeling thanks to the speculum.

[@ih1173]

To me it sort of felt like how an injection feels in your arm, but in your cervix. Over quickly, minimal discomfort, and some mild pain for a few hours after. Nothing I couldn’t handle. But I know this isn’t every person’s experience.

[@scotneyyoung]

Really not appreciating his dismissive attitude about the pain during insertion, especially since he will never know what it is like as a man. Yes, it is quick and temporary but it is VERY uncomfortable and can be pretty painful. Still, I think the short-term pain is TOTALLY worth the long-term effectiveness it provides in terms of contraception.

[@izzykitty447]

I don't think he's being dismissed really I think he just knows he has no idea what it's like so theres no point in him saying oh yea it hurts a lot or no it doesn't hurt much when he has never gone through it and he knows his viewers know that

[@Ratona60]

He was fair, he said some women say it hurts a lot and others don't feel pain. He never said he knows from experience.

[@LilMinnie365]

He was being fair, from what ive read the pain is very prevalent in women who have not given birth but not so much in women who have had birthed a baby. So he maybe didnt know why there is a difference, just that there is.

[@laurenhanson5108]

I would go through it again, even once a year. It’s not that bad. Tattoos hurt more. Don’t get spooked from horror stories.

[@bridgethollen9511]

definitely the worst pain i’ve ever felt in my life but totally worth it! I use the pill and an iud and it’s great :)

[@danielledudnikoff343]

I have had the Paragard (copper iud) for two years. Hands down the best decision I've ever made. I was concerned about the painful insertion and my doctor prescribed me some pain medicine and Valium before he inserted it under ultrasound guidance to make sure it was placed correctly. It was still painful but definitely worth it. I've never had children and look forward to being child free for the next 8 years.

[@nanizaby1]

Danielle Dudnikoff How were your cycles after getting it vs before being the paragard?

[@dianag59]

updates?

[@TJAnderson]

Thank you for providing the full name and publication of the study. One of the most infuriating things when trying to have civilized conversations is people not having a source for their information. Not just simply not citing it, but not even knowing where the numbers came from, just blindly rattling off statistics they think they read on an inforgraphic once.

[@armorsmith43]

When you pulled back your arm saying "straighten the cervix", I couldn't help but clench my entire pelvic region and I don't even have a cervix. I hope they are generally more gentle than that.

[@amye.8000]

Nope. Which is why women who've never experienced childbirth or who have a low tolerance for pain describe it as excruciating. Also why your practitioner will tell you to take some form of pain killer half hour prior to the procedure and why women are allowed to request anesthesia. In Canada you can request to be put under for the procedure.

[@vxcorwinxv]

I had a minor concern about this that I wanted to bring up. My wife had an IUD inserted and, it was excruciatingly painful to insert. All throughout the time she had it she would be mildly irritated by it, not every day, but she would sometimes reflexively seize from pinching feeling. Eventually, she had to have it removed because it was causing some issues within her cervex. When it was removed, the doctor who removed it mentioned that IUDs really aren't a great option for women who have never had children before. (Due to the pain and constant discomfort) I wanted to know if there was any validity to their claim. (I understand everyone's different) Is there a significant reaction between women who have had children vs women who have never had children?

[@caitlynjones2147]

Getting my IUD was hands down the most painful thing I've ever done and to this day (2 years later) every once in a while it'll send a shooting pain through me, but it only lasts a second. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I got it but I was not at all prepared for the pain. I had to pull over three times on the way home from my dr's office to throw up it was so bad. I would recommend this to a friend that has already had a baby but not to my non children bearing friends

[@krystalburcham6294]

+Caitlyn Jones Wait til you have it removed!!! That was the worst pain I have EVER experienced! It felt like being in labor for 4 days straight! But it was all worth it to me in the end because I got pregnant within the first month of removal! It is an excellent form of birth control though. I had another one placed after baby came. This one hurt more than the first one! I didn't have much cramping after having the first one in! I dread having this one removed!!!

[@WesternBache]

@@krystalburcham6294 Talk to your doctor about pain control options :)

[@leleiskindofcool]

My copper IUD has definitely decreased my quality of life. I've spent an unacceptable amount of days in pain due to it. I've had it checked out, there are no complications. It was expected to increase menstrual pain and flow; I just didn't expect it to be this bad.

[@chopkins57]

Got my IUD a few weeks ago, and it's been great! I'd say the insertion was 2 minutes of discomfort and 10 seconds of genuine pain. I had a couple hours of cramps afterward, but overall it was super easy, and 5 years of not worrying is SO worth it.

[@inksplatter1]

I just got a copper IUD, and I'm very happy with the peace of mind it gives me, since the pregnancy rate is so low, and I don't have to worry about forgetting it one day. Plus, I'm not messing around with hormones like I was with the pill, which severely messed up my cycle when I tried to come off them a few times. I will say that getting the IUD hurt like bejesus for the first few hours after I got it, but since then I've been fine, and I understand that a lot of women don't have so much pain. Besides, I can handle some pain for the long payoff of having it. Oh, and it was completely free with my insurance, unlike pills!

[@AmallieGames]

Something I wish doctors discussed with patients more often is what happens in the rare chance the IUD does fail. This video totally left that part out, but I think it's an important consideration. Because mine did. I'm currently 6.5 weeks pregnant and honestly it's been pretty traumatic because of the risks of having the IUD in while pregnant. I will never have another one after this experience.

[@Zeepjeliefs]

Oh wow I read about that before. My doctor did mention that if the uterus is small (like mine) the iud could get out of place and you are not protected. If I may ask, what is the procedure you must follow now? Hope all goes well for you😢🍀

[@AmallieGames]

@Zeepjeliefs my 6 month baby is snoozing next to me and we are both luckily just fine despite the IUD situation. I was able to have it removed at 8 weeks pregnant and my baby was okay thank goodness (there is a risk of miscarriage with IUD removal in pregnancy). Never ever getting another IUD.

[@Zeepjeliefs]

​@@AmallieGamesim so happy to hear that everything worked out well for the both of you 💖 but definately a very stressful experience😣

[@sarahmccarthy624]

I had the copper iud for 2.5 years, but had to have it removed because it was so painful. Also, the insertion process was definitely the most pain I've ever experienced. My doctor says it's because I haven't ever been pregnant, and that it's less painful for those who have. I just felt like I should post here because he's really underselling how bad the pain is. It did work, and was very convenient. It also made my period twice as long and I got a little anemic from the blood loss.

[@guizhichen3683]

truly agreed, he is a guy what can he feel

[@SophiaDerivan]

It was mildly disappointing to hear him mention that. It is worse than they lead on, & it is generally only comfortable once you’re loaded up on prescription medication…!

[@tsukikage]

I'm terrified of the IUD pain horror stories.

[@TheCrystalFalcon]

Nastassja Riemermann I got it a few days ago and yes it’s painful when it’s inserted depending if u had a baby or not but I haven’t had one so i wasn’t use to it. But it is fast and u will get a bad cramp for that day and the next but it gets way better

[@IsabelDavila0706]

It hurts like the worst cramps of your period while they put it in, but then you just feel like regular period cramps. My appointment lasted a total of 5 minutes!!

[@vaguelyhailey]

I recently had one inserted and I barely even felt it. But I also had a baby 6 weeks prior. If you're really worried about it, take ibuprofen before the appointment. Ibuprofen help suppress the hormones that make the uterus contract and cause cramps.

[@lanaeglover818]

Your doctor can numb the area if you want them to. Mine offered to, so it was really easy. If the doctor you go to doesn't want to do that, try going somewhere like Planned Parenthood.

[@bridgethollen9511]

I definitely almost passed out getting mine and barely made it to my car so make sure you bring a friend or boyfriend or family member I’m so happy my mom came because I felt so sick and had no numbing and it was serious pain and very uncomfortable.

[@CashAndSpanglish]

Great video!! I can't have children because I've had Endometriosis since I was very young. I have irregular periods and the bleeding can last up to 2 months, so my Gyn suggested we try Mirena to control the bleeding and thus control the Endometriosis, and it worked. I haven't had menstruation in one year and the scrutiating pain is gone.

[@SkyeID]

+Girasol I'm glad it worked for you. It didn't work for me! I had crazy, long-lasting periods and intense pain too, so my doc suggested Mirena. After it was inserted, the post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping my uterus with its claws! I was in bed for 2 days, weeping profusely :-/ I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up! After that, I had a hysterectomy, which ended up being the best choice for me in the long-term. I had no desire to give birth, and the painful monthly blood-bath nightmare is gone forever!

[@CashAndSpanglish]

+Skye ID Wow, such a bad experience. My Gyn suggested that I do some research before inserting the Mirena, just so I could be sure that I wanted it. I went into the insertion appointment scared to death because I read some stories like yours, but I decided to go along with it because it was practically my last hope, short of a hysterectomy. When my doc was doing his thing "down there" I was bracing for the huge pain, but suddenly he stood up and removed his gloves... I was like "what the heck?!? why did you stop?!" and he says "well, I'm done". I truly did not feel a thing, no cramp or pain at all. When I got home I did get a mild cramp, but it only lasted a couple of hours and then went away. After that I spotted once, a spot about the size of a nickle. I've had a great experience with Mirena and I hope more women do. I'm not married and hope to have at least one child some day, with fertility treatment or even in vitro. That's why I have not opted for a hysterectomy yet, which I know will inevitably happen some day. I hope you continue to do well!!

[@keylahwallace3733]

I agree that IUDs are very convenient to women. It's so easy to forget taking your pills which is why some women get pregnant while on it. Another positive point is that you can change it out every few years. If you're with a well trusted partner, it may be more convenient not using condoms because there wouldn't be a worry for pregnancy or an STI. However, it doesn't always turn out to be this smooth for some women. I had the Mirena (hormonal IUD) for about 18 months and I must say I never had a good experience with it. The worst day was the day of insertion. I bled like crazy and the pain was so bad I had to be prescribed pain killers. I decided to get the Mirena because most of my female friends had it and loved it. I was instantly sold when they told me they never had a period since getting it. I know all women can agree that not worrying about changing pads or tampons for an entire week is great. It also can save money that way because getting the good brands of tampons and pads are slightly expensive. Before getting the Mirena, my periods lasted at the most four days and my flow was always light. After getting the Mirena, I bled the entire time having it, whether it was around the time of my normal period or not. My flow was always heavy and when the time came where I was scheduled for my period, the cramps were so brutal it felt like I was being scraped up from the inside. I went to see my gynecologist because I thought something was wrong. What I was told by my doctor was that some women that get the Mirena bleed the entire time and that my symptoms were completely normal. Most women respond well to the Mirena, some women like myself react a different way, and other women unfortunately experience negative effects. Such effects like a shift of the IUD in the uterus which can cause punctures. Thankfully I was fine after having a transvaginal ultrasound and seeing it for myself. However, I decided to take it out afterwards.

[@Zinnie988]

Did you get a laparoscopy done before the IUD was inserted? 🤔 How was your adjustment phase of the Merina? Side Effects? 🤔

[@reginaldepps300]

I have to say I had the paragard placed in me when I was 20 in 2008 it's supposed to be a10 year iud. I had to have it removed earlier this year because of the complications. It was great for six years except for the heavy periods. The insertion and removal didn't hurt to bad either. But starting last year I started getting terrible panic attacks even heavier (scary) periods, yeast infections, had no energy and my hair started to thin terribly. On top of a copper smell that smelled awful right before and during my periods. As soon as I had it removed things have started to return to normal thank god. No panic attacks my hair is starting to grow back no weird smells. I would suggest looking up copper toxicity. It's real and can happen. Just some advice to anyone looking to get one:)

[@jmatwood]

Dr. Carroll, they're not more popular because many doctors refuse to give an IUD to a woman who hasn't had a baby yet. I had to fight really hard for my IUD when I got it. I hope it's better now, with the Skyla IUD. It was really frustrating for me to try to get long term birth control because at 25, no doctor would BELIEVE me when I said I didn't ever want children. It's kind of insulting.

[@Victoriaravenelle]

Joolie I was hoping to see stats on that as well. I found a great dr that gave iuds to never before pregnant women and had a great experience but that was also an issue I faced. I wonder how many don’t get it because drs discourse or refuse to do it based on bad information?

[@sarajimenez6561]

I had an IUD for the last seven years. I had no problem when getting my IUD. I am sorry for all the women who have.

[@kerryb1234]

Really? I just had the mirena inserted yesterday and I’ve never had a baby I’ve never even really been sexually active (just not a virgin) and I’m only 23. I was on the pill and with my high BP all my drs were getting worried and the gyno cam in with this big box saying I could do this right now. I was like hell no I need drugs for this and I’m talking panadol. Mind you I have PCOS and possibly endometriosis so hormonal therapy was a MUST for me, I’ve had extreme periods since I was 10 and honestly even though its every 4 weeks you never seem to learn to deal with it.

[@asmrtpop2676]

I’m 28 and don’t even fully identify as female and yet my doctors, family, and coworkers all seem to think they know I’ll MAGICALLY change my mind...despite never ever in my life having a desire to be pregnant or have kids.

[@seashells1460]

I wish someone had stopped me from getting mine. Had the Copper in for a year. Horrible experience from the excruciating pain of insertion until I finally got it removed after a couple months of the doctors struggling to even find the damn thing to have it removed. I'm probably going to be dealing with the effects for a few months now. And I could very well not be able to have kids. I wouldn't recommend IUDs to anyone. Too many women have had negative experiences. Don't listen to the docs who try to tell you otherwise. They are just trying to sell it to you.

[@SarahTM2TS]

I love my Mirena. Best decision made. I'm on #2 (after 5 years with the first one). I got my second one for free through insurance!

[@sarahknight1906]

I'm so glad you are covering IUDs (Or IUS, depending on who you ask) they aren't something that gets talked about often, and many people don't know how they work, or that they MUST be covered by insurance. Many women who come into the Family Planning clinic where I work don't even know its an option to consider. Especially, the women on Medicaid, don't know it can be done without a copay. Its also a great choice for people living through college or high school, and aren't sure if they can get back to the same clinic each year to refill a prescription. I'll be sure to show this video to my coworkers, it may help with the translation from science-talk to 'plain-old-english'. Also looking forward to next week's video on the past IUDs. I heard some of it in my High school Adv.Bio. class("See how far science has brought us in contraceptives!"), but I would love to hear more.

[@MechaAigis]

If you live in the UK, an IUD (either copper or hormonal) is completely free on the NHS. After experiencing prolonged bleeding on the hormonal implant, I can really recommend it.

[@BlueBaby1023]

I love my Mirena. I'm on my second one, and although I will admit that insertion/removal process was incredibly painful for me (I almost fainted both times, even though I was laying down), it is so worth it in my opinion. The first one the midwife inserted, she questioned if she was going to be able to get in due to me having a small cervix (18 and no children), but it worked out just fine. Both of them were covered on my insurance plan, the first one having a small copay and the second being free. I haven't had a period in years, though I do get the occasional spotting from exercise. For those concerned about men bumping your cervix, I can say that, while painful, it isn't dangerous. Frankly, I get more cramps from doing abdominal work outs than I do from a man hitting my cervix with an IUD in. I will never go back to using another method unless something more reliable and convenient comes out in the next few decades, which is possible given our rate of increase in technological medicine.

[@SophiaDerivan]

Increase in technological medicine is almost everything except for women’s contraception!🤭😭😭

[@MeggieSetGo]

Thanks for the info! I think its also important to say that these types of birth control (pills, IUDs) should always be left up to the decision of the woman. Some aren't comfortable with having a foreign object in their body, and some women aren't comfortable with taking hormones, and they shouldn't be pressured by their partner to take/get something they're unhappy or uncomfortable with just so he doesn't have to "suit up".

[@TheSnahsnah]

+MeggieSetGo this expectation destroyed my last relationship. She couldn't "please" me with condoms, and it gradually made her feel inadequate and me unloved. No one should be forced to do anything in a relationship, but dealing in absolutes doesn't work when it comes to relationships.

[@MeggieSetGo]

+TheSnahsnah I'm sorry to hear that. My statement wasn't meant to sound callus or to mean there can't or shouldn't be a discussion. You actually hit the point I was trying to make of not being or feeling forced to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Its a difficult line to traverse. On the one hand if in a relationship the lady insists the man wear a condom (assuming its a scenario in which one might not need to be worn as disease is not an issue), it can sound to him like "I don't care about your pleasure" but if the man insists she get on birth control it can sound like "I don't care if this makes you uncomfortable, I just want to feel pleasured." Either way, it sounds pretty shitty, at least in the head of the person. This is why discussion is important.

[@MeggieSetGo]

But I still stand by my statement that the ultimate decision of birth control insofar as pills or an IUD needs to be left up to the woman. Its her body.

[@TheSnahsnah]

MeggieSetGo I think you put that very well. The reason I replied to your comment is that your original, shorter comment makes it sound as if wanting to not use condoms is inherently a selfish overreach by the male partner, but I see that that's not what you meant at all :)

[@MeggieSetGo]

+TheSnahsnah No worries, thanks for letting me clarify (it can be so hard to have adult discussions in KZbin comment sections!). I don't think not wanting to use a condom is inherently selfish (it certainly could be in some scenarios, or for certain people, but so could not wanting to use other birth control options).

[@gemmaohlemacher]

I

[@SkyeID]

+Gemma Ohlemacher Speak for yourself. The post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping my uterus with its claws! For me, it was very bad!

[@jmatwood]

Yeah, experiences will vary widely, especially depending on how much you've had in your uterus before. Having had a baby makes it a less uncomfortable experience. Also having had an IUD at some point prior helps as well. The first six months after my first insertion were bad, but since then (10+ years, one replacement later) it's been just fine, and better yet, no periods and almost no cramps ever. This is great since me and every woman in my family have awful periods and cramps!

[@gemmaohlemacher]

I do seem to remember it hurting more the first time around, but still not bad. Of course everyone is different, I am not saying it isn't painful for some. Just sharing my personal experience. :)

[@therrydicule]

+Gemma Ohlemacher Yes he was clinical; however, what do you expect from a medical doctor?

[@The1RosePhoenix]

+Gemma Ohlemacher Do you have any suggestions for how one would go about finding out how much it would cost with one's specific insurance? I just got new insurance and entirely new health network, so I haven't established any health professionals yet, but could I just call the gynecologist in my network and have them look it up for me? Also, if I've never been to a gynecologist before, would I be able to just get this done on my first visit? (I'm a super-poor grad student, if I can avoid having to make two visits I will, because for each visit I have to cough up a copay AND co-insurance, which adds up quick when you're making basically nothing after paying school fees and living expenses)

[@alesahughson756]

I love my mirena, but I'd be lying if I didn't say that having it put in was the most painful thing I have ever experienced. It was worth it, but I had to pause the video when he was describing it. I remember every little painful bit of it...

[@bec.des3]

I thought I was weird cuz everyone was telling me it was a breeze in their experience. it was extremely painful and traumatic for me, during and afterwards.

[@kittyshot]

Never had a baby huh?

[@alesahughson756]

kittyshot6 No, I haven't. That's why I said it was the most painful thing I have ever experienced. Me. Not you. Learn to read.

[@XTheTaylorTerrorX]

Mine was painful as hell when I got mine inserted as of well cause I have never had a child. But I've noticed I have lost lots of weight seem less moody, periods aren't as horribly bloody thank god.

[@lanaeglover818]

When/if you get it replaced, you should see if your doc will numb you first. Mine offered to, so I only really felt a shot of lidocaine or something and then it was just sore after.

[@refreshfr]

What about contraceptive implants? You only need to renew it every 3 years or so and have both theorical and practical efficiency of 99.9%. That makes them the most efficient/convenient contraceptive mean (plus, you don't have to put something in your uterus, which can be a very "fearful" factor) Also, side note, the pill has only

[@LizzyLikeARock]

+refreshfr I had the nextplanon implant. If the only consideration is convenience (not taking a pill everyday) and effectiveness at preventing pregnancy then it is awesome. However, there is a nasty common side effect: severe acne. Some people may also not be want a scar on their arm from the injection/retrieval site.

[@InorganicVegan]

+refreshfr Actually, the hormonal IUD is the best means of contraception.

[@SkyeID]

+Elizabeth Stone When I had an IUD, my post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping at my uterus with its claws! I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up! It's better to rely on condoms from my P.O.V.!

[@garlicNeggplant]

+refreshfr It's interesting that you say putting something in your uterus is fearful, because implants somehow sound way more scary/uncomfortable to me.

[@LizzyLikeARock]

+Skye ID Yikes! I have no experience with the IUD. After the implant I moved onto the nuvaring.

[@redcatmiller]

The fact that pain management isn't offered for insertion is an example of the poor treatment women receive in the healthcare setting. While some people are fine, many are not--especially individuals who have not previously been pregnant. My insertion was worse than when I ruptured my appendix or had a hernia, and I was told to take Advil and suck it up.

[@Kailyn123456luvu]

I love my mirena! I’ve had it for 6 years now also on my second one it’s truly amazing and I would highly recommend it! I haven’t had a period for 6 years which is reason enough to get it just for that!

[@UndeadSeagullable]

My iud insertion took several minutes because my whole body cramped up, and was so painful that I vomited. After it was inserted it changed the ph of my vagina, causing two years of basically incurable chromic yeast infections before I eventually took it out. So not a huge fan

[@kandylover139]

I love IUDs!! Can you also talk about the implant (Nexplanon) Aaron? It's also a LARC and has been shown to have failure rates even lower than the IUD.

[@moonrox4481]

I was told for years I couldn’t get it. I finally got it yesterday and I’m so happy! It hurt but it’s definitely worth it.

[@Zinnie988]

So which type did you get and how did you feel as your body adjusted to the IUD? 🤔

[@moonrox4481]

@@Zinnie988 I got the mirena. I used to have the shot and it made me feel awful. The iud didn’t affect me as much. The only bad thing is I don’t get a period. So whenever I do end up bleeding its really dark blood, it lasts a long time and it’s just a little bit. The pain you might feel is mostly cramping and soreness and as someone that is super sensitive to pain I honestly recommend it to everyone.

[@howarthe1]

I have a hormonal IUD, and I really love it. I don't have to think about it, and my menstruation, which used to be quite painful, is now extraordinarily mild. Insertion was quite painful, but I'll get another one, when this one needs replacing. My question is: has anything really changed in the last ten years, since I received my first IUD? The pamphlet my caregiver gave me actually said: "birth control just for mothers," as if my uterus was special now that it had grown a baby. I could have an IUD. But now I've seen them marketed to teenagers. What gives? How different are they?

[@meaganmackenzie5068]

I strongly believe more uterus people would use IUDs if doctors responded more appropriately to gynecological pain. Most don't offer any pain medication (while some say to take some Tylenol beforehand). I've even heard of people who had cervical biopsies with no pain medication! I see no reason why doctors cannot offer appropriate pain medication to their often painful procedures. To be honest, I've considered an arm implant because I think it'd be less painful (they numb you beforehand).

[@danielstarkey9953]

My partner uses an IUD, and she's been really happy with it so far. But she had a much worse reaction to it's insertion. She had crippling pain for a couple of days after the fact -- all apparently normal, but uncommon. Just something for some folks to be aware of.

[@SkyeID]

+Daniel Starkey The pain varies from person to person. For me, the post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping my uterus with its claws! I was in bed for 2 days, weeping profusely :-/ I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up!

[@jmatwood]

+Skye ID Haha I've seen you say exactly this SO many times on this thread I feel like I finally have to chime in. I've had Mirena inserted twice, and I've never had a baby before so that usually indicates more pain (though I've been told that Mirena now has an IUD specifically designed for nulliparous women). While I did have stronger cramps during my period for six months, the pain all but completely disappeared after that. So did my periods, and any of the menstrual cramps that would usually accompany them. After 6 years, my periods started to come back (and so did the craaaamps -- all the women in my family have awful periods), and I knew I was overdue so I had it replaced. That time, it was like nothing. So basically, over the last decade plus, I've had six extra-crampy periods, and the rest of the time I've had NO periods, hardly ever any cramps, and worry-free birth control.

[@IzziiElliott]

+Daniel Starkey I had the same thing, it happened immediately after I left the doctor's actually I couldn't even walk home, had to get someone to drive me, but after a few months of my cramps being less frequent but definitely worse, they cleared up and I barely ever get them now, so the trade-off seems worth it

[@Rettequetette]

"The insertion can hurt an be uncomfortable"... talk about understatements. Also, pain once it's in - not so nice. Ok, that may be "some women", like you said, but being one of the unlucky ones, I felt the agonizing cramps again just from hearing you describe the procedure.

[@tegweni]

I'm really disapointed in this video! There's no talk of side effects. I got mirena inserted last year and could only bear it for 3 months.. It caused weird little pimples on my forehead and eventually led to cystic acne on my face, back and chest. It also hurt during sex in certain positions. The insertian also caused cramps for the entire day and I have a high pain tollerance. Admittedly I've never given birth, so it should be easier on women who have. I'm not saying it's not a great option for some, just make sure you research a lot. I read reviews and never found anything about acne. It was only afterwards that I searched for 'mirena acne' that I found anything. I thought I'd be fine with the hormones because I'd been on the pill for so long. Again, research needed because the hormones are different.

[@tegweni]

I thought I'd also add that I was always horribly bloated. I can't say for certain if it was because of the IUD.

[@gloriac6468]

Ziggstar I have had the same exact side effects as you! I felt like I was the only one because everyone only talks about how great it is.

[@TheSilverVixen]

I would love to see you do a video on other less well known forms of birth control. I've been on Depo Provera (shot) for about seven years now and it's been wonderful, but most of my female friends/relatives had no idea what it even was until I started getting it and told them about it.

[@calliezzz]

My sister and I both had IUDs and we both had a terrible experience with them. Our family all react poorly to hormonal birth control so we both opted for the copper IUD. They were uncomfortable, caused heavier bleeding, and we both had them removed within 6 months. I think these are a great option for some women, but it was not the option for me. I wanted to go back to using a diaphragm after that but since there is such a push to get women to use IUDs, I could not get a diaphragm from my gynecologist. I had to order one from the UK. I know that diaphragms have a much higher failure rate but it seems that it is my only option (other than a condom).

[@themoonlightgirl13]

I'm sorry, but your description of how the IUD is inserted really put me off. Sounded so horrible and uncomfortable having someone poking and pulling down there!

[@jmatwood]

+themoonlightgirl13 The thing with the "pulling" of the cervix is actually a part you barely feel. I've had Mirena inserted twice and never actually realized there was "pulling" involved anywhere. The worst of it was actually the sounding, where they measure your uterus. And even that basically just felt like a strong menstrual cramp. Basically, the whole thing is barely more uncomfortable than a routine PAP smear. Depending on the type you get and whether you've had a child before... as well as how skilled your doctor is at insertion... your pain afterwards is not even that bad. It's all basically comparable to menstrual cramps.

[@___melanie]

@@jmatwood having my cervix touched when they were preparing to insert it was the close to the most painful thing I’ve ever felt. And again three years later for removal.

[@arit8009]

doctors don't offer pain management for this, when it's very painful for many people with uteruses. I assume offering pain management would be ideal and make it more likely.

[@OzSweetness]

I got an IUD because I knew I would not remember to take my pills and I wanted the lowest dose of hormones possible. Some of the doctors I went to told me that they were mainly for older women who have given birth. But why should that be true, and if it is does that matter? It's the most effective method and it's reversible. I understand that it can be more painful for those who have not given birth before but the IUD can be inserted under sedation. Anywho, under the Australian Medicare system, the cost of the IUD goes down to around $30AUD. For those who have super low income, they're around $10. I got mine for $6. I was over the moon.

[@roxygreen4452]

The first OBGYN I went to clearly did NOT know at all about what she was talking about, she even asked me why I was there because I wasn't sexually active (OBGYNS ARE NOT JUST FOR BIRTH CONTROL) anyway, when the word IUD even came out of my mouth she immediately cut me off and said hell no those are for women who have already given birth. Luckily I was able to see a way better obgyn and she laughed at my story because of how ridiculous it was, they have IUDs made for women who haven't given birth now (Kyleena I believe). And the first OBGYN was sooo old school

[@PotionsMaster007]

I prefer the idea of an iud (copper or non hormonal)over the pill because I don't like the idea of playing with my hormones, I like to let my body do what it's suppose to do :)

[@KeeliaS]

What about a contraceptive implant? How do they compare to the IUDs? I have a progestogen-only subdermal implant and absolutely love it. As far as i'm aware it has a very low failure rate, similar to the hormone IUDs with (in my opinion) a far less invasive insertion, it sits painlessly under the skin in your upper arm and you still have the long lasting effects (~3 years) and no worrying about forgetting to take your pill

[@annathesubtlerebel]

I will add that making sure that your pelvic floor is strong is important too, in general and especially in IUD use. It helps keep all your organs (Bladder, uterus, colon, etc) all stay in place and don't add any pressure onto another. This helps keep IUDs in place and functioning properly. So do them Kegels, ladies!!!

[@samiyarossini]

I had a Mirena. I did not react well to it. It also decided to move further up in my uterus (due to things shifting around after I gained a significant amount of weight post-insertion, partially due to the hormones as I am exceptionally sensitive to them, and other meds I was on at the time) and was more difficult to remove. I've thought about trying Skyla, though the concern about the hormones I had with the Mirena is still there. They're the same hormones, one is just a lower dose. I'm too reactive to copper to use a copper IUD. One of the issues with getting IUDs was, when I had mine several years back, many American doctor's wouldn't put them in women who didn't already have a kid. (And it was a pain in the ass to try to find one who would for me. I kept telling them I already have a cat!)

[@SkyeID]

+Snowhawk Przhevalsky I'm sorry you had a bad time. I did too when I had Mirena. The post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping my uterus with its claws! I was in bed for 2 days, weeping profusely :-/ I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up! That was the last time I will ever use birth control!

[@LyssandraNorton]

I'm gay and I have an IUD. My doctor recommended getting a hormonal one to help reduce the pain of my periods, because I was one of the few percent that got such bad cramps that I would have symptoms of stomach flu and every month had to call in to work sick for 1-3 days, as I spent all my time in the bathroom. I love my IUD. I haven't had a period since and with my insurance it was only around 200 dollars as opposed to the 900 it would cost without insurance. Totally worth it and I'm way happier now. (also save a lot of money on tampons and pain killers)

[@asmrtpop2676]

And hey not to mention some women have penises, so, you’re protected!

[@MB-wx2jp]

Which one did you get?

[@krisweller1498]

I was born against an IUD. Luckily, my parents were in a very financially stable position and had children before, so I was a pleasant surprise, to put it in their words.

[@taylorswiftcovers]

No mention of the arm implant? I've had it since November and love it!! No risk of uterine implantation or sterilization and it is far more recommended for teens.

[@OwlishFun]

My remarkable lack of sex means I'm not currently worried about contraption. But the IUD is my first choice once I am in a position where Project: Sex is all a-go. I've been on the contraceptive pill before, but went off it three years in after the end of my last relationship because I was getting increasingly bad IBS, and I just felts emotionally/mentally 'clearer' when I was off it (I have anxiety and depression). I'm weirdly excited about giving a copper IUD a go when the time comes. Thanks for the videos Dr Carroll, they're super helpful :D

[@katrinanatasha360]

when getting my paragauard iud in i fainted from the shock, my obgyn was so sweet and completely took care of me. i know that my story may sound scary but i truthfully think that it was 100% worth it, Plus the likelihood of that happening to another person is uncommon.

[@MB-wx2jp]

Reading the positive comments about Mirena makes me sad..I had the mirena inserted a week ago under anesthesia bc I had a d&c procedure so my gyno suggested I try the mirena then bc I have very low pain tolerance. Long story short, I've had 2 cardiac ablations this year for svt and I was kinda worried that the iud would affect my heart and unfortunately it did. I was experiencing tachycardia for almost 3 days straight. Also, the first couple of days after insertion I had a horrible migraine and terrible fatigue slept for 12 hours. I decided to have the iud removed after only having it for a week. I really wanted it to work for me but the tachycardia symptoms were too much 😞 So disappointing bc I have terrible menstrual cramps.

[@Honey-Bee-25]

How are things now? I had a hormonal issue as well and thought it was related to my heart. Had extreme tachycardia episodes, never had am IUD before. Turns out i was severely anemic and vitamin D deficient. Took 3 YEARS before a doctor did the right test, there are 3 markers to check for anemia, iron, ferritin and iron saturation. Doctors only checked 2 and turns out I was severely iron deficient this whole time. Iron is needed so cells can properly transport oxygen. Without it, it inceases the demand of the heart and makes it pump harder. But you also need proper levels of b12 and folate so yoir body van absorb it. I had this issue and could not raise my iron saturation after months of research. Low vitamin D can also cause palps, as well as low potassium or low magnesium, which are also probably low if a person is anemic. Hope you are doing better! Just wanted to share in case you are noticing things post iud removal.

[@encanta411]

I wonder if hormonal IUDs can help with regulating periods (as well as serve as a contraceptive), that's the reason I'm on a birth control. But if an IUD is long term (and more effective against pregnancies) it definitely sounds more appealing.

[@Goink01]

The hormonal ones can decrease period bleeding, but the copper ones can not. If you just want to regulate your periods, a nuva ring or pill would probably do the trick. I am not a doctor though, so take your doctors advice over the advice of a stranger on the web.

[@megansmith480]

As a medical imaging professional (Sonographer) I've seen so many unintended pregnancies and complications with placement from women with IUDs, both copper T's and hormonal IUDs. I wouldn't get one if you paid me, and I never recommend these contraceptives to my friends.

[@blueanthill]

So as a woman who has had an IUD, I can tell you. The reason women don't get them is because the procedure is PAINFUL, the cervical blocks DO NOT work, and you aren't given pain meds. You're treated like your reproductive organs are supposed to be painful and you should be used to it and get over it.

[@katrinhaerterich2454]

I've stayed away from them because I everyone talk to about it, including myself knows someone whose had it put in wrong which results in a lot of pain and sometimes other issues. Also your description of the procedure sounds much more terrifying than what I had been told before.

[@maggiebookworm]

+Katrin Haerterich It's not as bad as he makes it sound. Perhaps the people you know had them inserted by inexperienced healthcare professionals? My doctor sent me specifically to a family planning clinic where it was inserted by a doctor with another doctor supervising and a third person to stand by my head and talk me through it.

[@sonorasgirl]

I did genuinely find my insertion to be the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced (and I’ve broken bones) but I have endo and that makes it worse, AND I’m still gonna get another one when this one expires. It sucks, but never thinking about periods or cramps or mood swings is 100% worth it to me.

[@AlexTheMary]

Can you do one on Nexplanon!?

[@pierce8714]

I'm not here to be a hater but nexplanon is dangerous. Look up nexplanon heart lungs liver

[@asmrtpop2676]

Alexandria Ingram Why would you?

[@o0Avalon0o]

I got the Mirena IUD. YOU STILL NEED A CONDOM to prevent STI's. Taking ibuprofen before insertion, having the day off & someone to drive you home lets you relax after insertion. My period stopped immediately after & didn't come back, so any amount of initial pain was worth that. I was uncomfortable for the first few months but I don't care, I got my Mirena for free and I don't have to buy expensive tampons or shove a silicone Cup in my vagina, which was the "best" part of the overall bad experience of having a period anyway.

[@HG-gj9lh]

IUD's are a great option for many women, however, it is important to note that there's a slightly higher risk of expulsion in women who have been pregnant before. Particularly in women who carried twins or higher order multiples. The uterus and cervix don't always shrink back enough for an IUD to stay in place. I found out the hard way. I went through two IUD's in a 3 month time span and eventually chose the arm implant instead.

[@taylorlange4390]

There are many different types of birth controls that are available to women nowadays. These can include birth control shots, pills, or intrauterine device. Healthcare triage states that many women lean toward taking the pill, but that there can be a downfall in doing so. Many times a women taking the pill tends to forget to take it every once in a while which can lead to getting pregnant. Also, birth control pills have a 9% failure rate. Whereas, intrauterine devices (IUDs) have a .2-.8% failure rate. About 170 million women use IUDs around the world. Although I think they are an interesting contraceptive method I think that it is 100% up to the women and what they feel comfortable using. What I question about this is that does it need to be replaced regularly and if they do how often? Also, the procedure of getting this put in sounds very uncomfortable to some people and might not want to have to deal with it falling out and not noticing that it has fallen out. I really liked how this video stated that the IUD will not protect you from STIs. It just protects someone against pregnancy. I think that it was important that this was said because many people are oblivious to this. I think that this was a very informative video to women because not a lot of people have heard of this contraceptive and how it works.

[@selenas3666]

I was on Depo-Provera (shot) for 8 years. I experienced weight gain and I was very moody. I always thought it was just my personality LOL. But I recently got Skyla (iud) inserted. It was really painful for me. But I’m doing good now. I hope this form of BC is gonna work better with me :)

[@lexiej7487]

IUDs are a really debatable topic. I’ve known several people who have had problems with their IUDs. It is really dangerous when IUDs are put in wrong, as that was the case with a friend of mine. She spent a significant amount of time in the Emergency department at a local hospital due to the IUD not being fully in place. Despite all of this, I think IUDs are a great thing that a lot of women should learn more about. There are a lot of women who are allergic to birth control, or like he mentions, allergic to it and cannot take it. I feel like this option is a great way to offer contraceptives that work to those who cannot take traditional birth control.

[@elizabethmcintosh6722]

I just had my second iud put in yesterday! Love them! Insertion is uncomfortable, but not painful! Definitely not worse than a piercing.

[@littlechery1]

Honestly I’m a 23 year old with no kids. I got my Mirena placed last month and although my doctor had some issues getting it in and had to use the sound several times…. It literally just felt like bad period cramps to me with a lot of pressure and just an “open” feeling because the doctor was doing her thing down there. I could also feel the coldness of the metal uterine sound inside of my uterus but it was not painful. The plastic uterine sound is much more comfortable though. With that being said, I am used to having really bad period cramps every month and heavy periods so this wasn’t that painful to me. The only thing that sucked about this was that the Motrin and Aleve did not stop the cramps after the procedure. You have to tough it out. If you’re not used to it, I could see why you would be in pain. I had to lay in bed with a heat pad and it was still pretty uncomfortable. Also… my doctor gave me misoprostol to enter Vaginally before the appointment and my cervix was still not dilated fully but she made it work. I took 800 mg of Motrin prior to the appointment and I’m not sure if that helped with any of the pain but my experience was not horrible. My hands were sweating and I was so nervous but it’s really tolerable. It’s just cramps. If you’re nervous about the procedure don’t be… just talk to your doctor about how to prepare beforehand.

[@andybearchan]

I switched to the copper IUD, trying to get away from hormones that were causing problems. Insertion sucked, and then my periods go crazy heavy. Take away: every birth control has trade offs.

[@garlicNeggplant]

I have a copper IUD and it's great! It's a birth control that I don't have to think about (lasts 10 years), and doesn't ever make itself known. When it was inserted, I was in a LOT of pain though, and the periods for the next 6 months were crazy weird, unpredictable and heavy (On month 7 it just poofed back to normal for me). Even so, 6 months of sporadic pain is still worth it for how long it lasts. I would do it again, and if you're not looking to get pregnant for a few years to a decade, (plus if your insurance covers it) it's worth it.

[@7Charlie6]

IUD is amazing, I had the hormonal one. I've had mine for 4 years and just recently took it out cause I want another child. I think that the reason why many women don't have an IUD because many are told that they cant have one inserted until they have a child. That's not the case at all. It's an awesome thing to and works very well. Ask your doctor! I learned the "hard way" that birth control pills didn't work on me.

[@ohiasdxfcghbljokasdjhnfvaw4ehr]

How can people rely on something that still has a failure rate? It's like every time you're rolling the dice. Getting pregnant is a big deal.

[@Jordan71495]

+skeddles Nothing in life is certain and everything has a chance of failure. An IUD fails only 0.2%-1% of the time which is pretty good odds regardless.

[@SestraVixen]

Well, guess you don't have any sex then huh. Considering that no sex ever is *the only* way to prevent from *ever* getting an sti or having a child.

[@Victoriaravenelle]

I love my iud. I used the pill but started to forget after regular use for 6 years. Then went to implanon and had issue with heavy constant bleeding for over a year. Went to an iud and loved it for 8 years (had two) and removed it to become pregnant. Didn’t have a period the entire time I had it. Became pregnant within three months. Initial insertion was very uncomfortable and I had cramping for a week. Second was just the initial cramp for insertion. A breeze. Check the strings every so often. Partner did notice the strings occasionally.

[@elwynbrooks]

I had a copper IUD, it made my periods super heavy/painful and it expelled, too. If I get one again, it'd definitely be when I have enough money so I can get a hormonal one

[@asmrtpop2676]

At least if the pill fails I know I’ve done everything right, not to mention doubling up by requesting partners with penises to wear condoms. If my IUD expelled and I didn’t know it and I got pregnant I would legitimately feel suicidal.

[@nateslovebug]

I can say a bit about this. I got my first copper IUD at 20 (I think?) and had it pulled to have my first child at 23. I got another shortly after Daniel was born, a few months before my 25th birthday. I just pulled that one three weeks ago to coincide with our attempt at a sibling for Daniel. (No word yet, but I'm 2 days from my period with no PMS symptoms... so, yeah...) For me, Implantation was quite painful, though a little more the first time than the second. Having it pulled felt like being punch in the lower gut both times. Me periods were longer and heavier, and my husband noted that he could feel the strings during intercourse, and it was sometimes uncomfortable. That being said, in seven years, the only pregnancy I had was when I wanted to be pregnant. I had no "scares", something I couldn't say on the pill or ring. The lack of hormones worked well for me and my husband, as the women in my family tend to get rather crazy on them. (My brother was conceived because they decided having their last baby and than getting mom sterilized was that best course of action after she through a pan it my dad while on the Pill.) I don't like to leave a lot to chance, and I have to say, the IUD gives me more power oven my reproductive life than I thought was possible.

[@Lynne15832]

I'm getting an IUD in a couple of weeks. I'm glad you were really descriptive of the process but now I'm slightly terrified. I'm still getting the IUD though.

[@BirthWithLiz]

Using an IUD is a risk factor for having an ectopic pregnancy, which is very dangerous.

[@annjuliarime9937]

I had my non hormonal IUD for about two and a half years and it was the best birth control I've had :) the insertion was painful like a little scratch with strong cramps, I also have a small cervix that might be y it was painful. I choose the non hormonal iud bc when I was on the pill I would have horrible headaches during s*x bc of the hormones . three days after the insertion I had no pain and during my periods i had stronger cramping. i was comfortable exercising and having s*x, I can still do every thing I did before. I got it taken out when I was ready to get pregnant. the removal was super easy, she told me to cough and pop it was out. I didn't feel it happen at all. I'm going to get an IUD again after my pregnancy. my sister in law wanted to get on a different birth after she had her daughter and I told her about my experience with the IUD and she got the hormonal iud thru her doc. she got it taken out two or three months after, she didn't like the idea of something foreign in her body she also didn't like the pain when she had her period. I feel like when ppl talk about birth control its THIS is better then THAT but everyone has different body's/history/partners/reasons/medical problems for choosing the birth control that's right for them. it might take trying a couple different kinds of birth control but its worth it when you find the best option for you.

[@SestraVixen]

Love the iud (I have Mirena), love that I don't get my full on periods every month, love the stats and it is a long term contraceptive! Hate that since I got it (July 20th this year) I've been in a constant state of light spotting (requiring a panty liner at all times) & that I get random light cramping (significantly less intense than I used to have tho & really they're more of a 'hey! You still have a uterus!' nudge than any kind of pain & they don't last long at all). I'm hopeful that the spotting will eventually regulate to a small time period every month or, get much lighter in color or consistency but, every woman's body is different so it may or may not.

[@SkyeID]

+SestraVixen For me, the post-insertion pain felt like Rosemary's baby was scraping at my uterus with its claws! I was in bed for 2 days, weeping profusely :-/ I had it removed after about 2 weeks, because the pain wouldn't go away and I was fed up!

[@Zeepjeliefs]

I am wondering, the ladies that had a painful insertion, did you also got a pain killing injection into your cervix during the procedure? My doctor gave me that with a super long syringe, but I did not feel any pain from the needle and also not from the insertion. I did not ask for this syringe, my doctor said it is standard practice in his clinic. I do have diabetes and I am used to pain and needles, but I hope this encourages others to ask for this painkiller. I also recommend taking in 2x paracetemol and 1x naproxen one hour before the insertion. I could not drive by myself, personally I am very sensitive to the side effect of naproxen. The naproxen made me feel sedated, which was actually nice because it helped with my nerves. The doctor prescribed it to me.

[@emmamorton4417]

I just got mine (Liletta) earlier this week. It HURTS OMG. but I love it. I haven't had any lasting issues and I didn't even need a pain killer the next day.

[@CaitOpoly]

I really liked the topic of this video. Something that would have made it better is a more thorough explanation of the side effects of hormonal birth control over time. It also would be more inclusive to say "people with vaginas" or "people" instead of "women" which I feel can be kind of erasing of some trans people. Some stuff to add for next time. Overall though it was a good video and thank you for posting it.

[@Nancy-rk9zp]

What about copper toxicity for copper IUD? There a lot of women in online forums complaining about copper toxicity with Paragard. Is this real or a myth?

[@FlyingDwarfman]

One thing that I think would have been nice to discuss is usage for those who've given birth before vs. those who haven't. In my very casual understanding of IUDs, it was -- at least in the past -- not viable for women who hadn't given birth before. From others' comments I see now, it seems that either I was incorrect or there have been improvements relevant to this.

[@cookiecaroline1355]

Can you make a video about depression and other side effects of birth control?

[@saraht855]

I got one and it's great, hurt pretty badly getting it fitted but pain went away within 24 hours (like bad period cramps). It's sometimes called the coil (at least here in the UK). Know a lot of women have had some really good responses to the implant too, would be good to see how they compare

[@yonialkan]

In Israel, many physicians won't provide an IUD to women before they had their first child, because of first pregnancy failure risk. will you be discussing that in next week's video?

[@Ivyvinetheloremaster]

Just a warning to women looking to get an iud and haven't had a child, ask for some pain meds, when I got my Miraina(?) it hurt more than when I had appendicitis. How ever I don't regret getting it I get a little spotting here and there but it has pretty much eliminated my period (and the 3 months worth of blood and cramps it brought every year)

[@magdalenel267]

This was really informational and easy to understand. Could you talk about RISUG, or Vasalgel, and when it may be available?

[@icepenguin1239]

I have had iud since the age of 17 I'm now 35. In and out when deciding to have children, and never any more than a slight cramping twinge. I didn't get on with the hormone one but the other works fine and no change to periods. Unfortunately this iud that I had fitted 7 yrs ago, the wires disappeared inside me so I will have to go into hospital when the time comes to have it removed, at least that's what my gp told me. But it is still in place and doing its job so no need for me to concern myself for a few years. have tried other forms of contraception bug always come back to the iud.

[@alaskaatlast751]

I have 5 kids, got it inserted 4 days into period . 3 months post partum . I didnt feel it go in at all. I have copper IUD and my periods r the same. Love it

[@annjuliarime9937]

I had my non hormonal IUD for about two and a half years and it was the best birth control I've had :) the insertion was painful like a little scratch with strong cramps, I also have a small cervix that might be y it was painful. I choose the non hormonal iud bc when I was on the pill I would have horrible headaches during sex bc of the hormones . three days after the insertion I had no pain and during my periods i had stronger cramping. i was comfortable exercising and having sex, I can still do every thing I did before. I got it taken out when I was ready to get pregnant. the removal was super easy, she told me to cough and pop it was out. I didn't feel it happen at all. I'm going to get an IUD again after my pregnancy. my sister in law wanted to get on a different birth after she had her daughter and I told her about my experience with the IUD and she got the hormonal iud thru her doc. she got it taken out two or three months after, she didn't like the idea of something foreign in her body she also didn't like the pain when she had her period. I feel like when ppl talk about birth control its THIS is better then THAT but everyone has different body's/history/partners/reasons/medical problems for choosing the birth control that's right for them. it might take trying a couple different kinds of birth control but its worth it when you find the best option for you.

[@kacheekyy]

I've had one for a while now. Love it!

[@ChocoboSpazz]

I love my Mirena but when I went to try to get it, I had to search through a few doctors. Apparently it's a no touchy zone for a lot of doctors if you haven't had a child yet. I thought that was the point of an IUD no babies!

[@Katja416]

I think the only reason they do that is because insertion can be more uncomfortable for people who have never had anything in their uterus. They've also started developing smaller IUDs, like the Skyla, specifically for that purpose.

[@letsgoparkhopping]

+ChocoboSpazz Its not only that it can be uncomfortable, it also has to do with the chance it can implant in the uterine wall or perforate the uterus, making it unlikely for a healthy pregnancy to happen. It is "just a side effect", but it does happen any many doctor's aren't willing to take that chance without letting you know. Its the same reason they won't do a hysterectomy unless it is for severe medical reasons on young women.

[@aigledemasyaf]

It’s sad that women are expected to bare the brunt of contraception when men are 50% of the baby-making process. Just look at how many different types and brands are marketed to women versus what are marketed to men. I remember they tried a male contraceptive pill but gave up because the side effects were undesirable. But were they really any more or less undesirable than what we expect women to deal with? Probably not.

[@elliemccarthy5672]

Ahhh i cringed so bad when you explained how healthcare providers put IUDs in.

[@kerryb1234]

I had the mirena inserted literally 1 day ago, however I was put under general anaesthetic as for some reason I’m super sensitive and just a papsmear is excruciatingly painful like being stabbed down there. So far I have constant cramps and my entire body aches although this was my first experience with GA and as I said I’m very sensitive. I had to switch from the pill to the IUD due to high BP causing risk of stroke. Fingers crossed the pain goes soon.

[@nahidshirzad1166]

Just got my iud in today. Not gonna lie it was uncomfortable putting it in but i didnt get any pain afterwards. Just the idea of not taking pills everyday and not getting your menstruation is worth it. I have very bad cramps during my periods so it helpes with that. I think it's worth it.

[@MissMimiMeeko]

Ehh I'm fine with my pill. My mum got hers taken out as she was starting to bleed every three weeks for a week and a half, and my best friend has issues with irregular bleeding as well. I know anecdotal evidence means nothing, but the trouble they had certainly put me off having it. Thankfully in the UK pretty much all forms of contraception are free on the NHS so money or insurance isn't an issue.

[@kcfroistad2538]

I get how the IUD's are better for birth control, but I also use my pills to control my period as well. I like having my period every now and then, but I also want to be able to plan it around vacations and work.

[@amandaengelman5168]

My midwife tried to insert a Mirena for me at my 8 week follow up appointment. She struggled and called in the OBGYN that had performed my c-section. He couldn't get it in either. He said my uterus was too small. I have no idea what that means since I had just grown a 6.5lb human in it, but whatever. It hurt quite a bit for me, and I started my first post-partum period later that day as well. The pain may have been from all the poking and prodding that went on from 2 people trying to get the thing in me. The OB said he didn't even think the copper IUD would fit and it's a bit smaller.

[@amandaengelman5168]

I just googled to see what they may have meant, and I see that there is now another smaller IUD called Skyla that didn't exist in 2006 when I had my son. I may have to look into it.