Paragard vs. Essure

[jlm226]

Hi! I am a childfree woman of 40 and have had the Paragard IUD for about 9 months. For the most part, I haven't had any major issues with it, mostly longer, heavier periods. The thing is, I don't entirely trust it and still use other forms of bc in addition to it. I still worry about pregnancy but the thing is, this will last me 10 years plus at my

Comments

[hollowdoll]

Pregnancy with today's IUDs is next to nil, honestly. There's a reason why Paragards & Mirenas are touted as being as effective as sterilization but reversible; statistically, they are & then some. As far as the IUD slipping out, that is true, but the longer you have yours, the less likely it is to expel. That's not to say it can't, grant you, as that's technically possible at all stages, but it's definitely less likely. If you worry about it a lot, try doing a super quick string check right before you have sex (or if you can't, then right after) to put your mind at ease. I had mine for nearly three years & after awhile I stopped even checking. I just assumed it was still there (and it was). Additional condom usage is always wise for a multitude of reasons, but as far as birth control goes, you're pretty well protected.

[jlm226]

Thanks for your response. I guess the fact that I don't see it is what does it for me.

[anonymissity]

I know it's just anecdotal, but I've had my Paragard for a little over 3 years now, and it's been nothing but perfect. I also noticed that, after about the 1st year is over, my period went back to "normal" as well.