Having an abundance of options may seem great, but when it comes to birth control it can be overwhelming to find the right option for you. Inside of each method are more choices from materials to brands. The right birth control method for you can change over time depending on your reason to be on it and how your body reacts. A method that is rising in popularity is an intrauterine device (IUD) birth control.
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Planned Parenthood describes an IUD as a T-shaped device placed into your uterus to prevent pregnancy by changing the way sperm cells move so they can’t get to an egg. There are five different, FDA approved IUDs for use in the United States. These are divided into two types: Copper IUDs and Hormonal IUDs.
Copper IUDs contain no hormones and have copper wire coiled around the device. The Paragard IUD can last up to 10 years but can be removed at any time if you decide you want to get pregnant. If you’ve struggled with hormonal birth control in the past, want a hormone-free option or prefer a method that won’t prevent your natural menstrual cycle, talk to your OB healthcare provider about Paragard. Some common side effects of Paragard include: anemia, spotting, prolonged periods, vaginal irritation, pain during sex and backache. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information and potential ways you could react to Paragard.
Properly choosing the right birth control method for you requires one thing: a conversation with your Gyn healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can listen to your reason to go on birth control, explain the possible side effects of each method and walk you through the process of starting birth control. At Southdale ObGyn, our providers are here to help women of all ages feel confident and comfortable about their birth control choices. Set a time to speak with one of our experienced providers and get support for your choice.