ParaGard and Cramps: What Users Say (Page 3)

• Wen...
• January 31, 2019

For Birth Control "POSITIVE REVIEW! So I have had ParaGard for just about 7 months now. First time having an IUD. The insertion process I will say was very uncomfortable. I had mild cramping afterward, and my cycle did get a lot heavier just during that particular time. I will say that having it, I don't get any of the symptoms that I have read in a lot of these reviews outside of my cycle went from being 4 days to now being 5 days. Some cycles are a little heavier than others, but not drastic of a change such as the insertion while I was on. I have had no negative side effects to this IUD since having it. Even during intercourse, it's not painful, and my partner only complained once of him feeling it, but I think that was more of his fault (adult humor)... outside of that, he doesn't feel it. I can honestly say that I am glad that I have it. Prior to this, I was really considering a permanent sterilization (I only have one child), but I feel this has been great for me so far."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 30, 2019

For Birth Control "I was really nervous to get the ParaGard IUD inserted after reading a bunch of scary reviews online. But I decided to go through with it anyway because I wanted a birth control with no hormones. The insertion was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be, just minimal cramping. I bled lightly for about a week after, and now I feel totally back to normal."

• KEM...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 5, 2018

For Birth Control "I had used so many other birth controls before this one. The Depo shot made me incredibly irritable and gain a lot of weight, Nexplanon made me bleed like crazy, and so did the Skyla. So I chose ParaGard because it was non-hormonal. Ever since, regular periods, no weight gain, no mood change, and happier than ever. Plus it lasts 10 years. I’m so glad I finally found something that works for me. The only thing I noticed was that my cramps were a little worse. Not the intensity necessarily, just the frequency."

• Sal...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 4, 2018

For Birth Control "I've had the ParaGard in for almost 6 months, and wow, I love it. The insertion wasn't too bad, as I had it done on my heaviest day of my period when I was 'opened up' a bit more. It almost felt like a heavy bowel movement come back inside. There was a bit of pain for 10 seconds, and it subsided. I'm now on month 5, and I've never had any spotting at all. The cramps and the flow of my period have gotten stronger, but not to the point of where it's unbearable. When it comes to intercourse, my boyfriend can at times feel the tip of the string, but it's never been uncomfortable. I'd really recommend this if you're looking for an IUD but don't want to deal with the hormones."

• kai...
• October 31, 2018

For Birth Control "I absolutely have no negative review about ParaGard. I am 23 years old and have been on hormonal birth control (Tri Sprintec) since I was 13, up until 22, when I decided to get the Mirena IUD. Because I was sick of taking a pill every day and sore boobs, I decided to try an IUD. I hated the Mirena. Made me absolutely crazy, and I had a nasty brown rusty discharge for the 3 months I had it. So I got the Mirena out, then went back to Tri Sprintec for a couple of months and decided I wanted to be off of hormones, so I gave the ParaGard a try. I absolutely love it. Duh, the insertion is the worst, I honestly think it’s bigger than Mirena too, but it’s literally 30 seconds, so suck it up. Instead of bleeding a lot like everyone says you have, I have even had shorter periods than I’ve had in the past. They only last 4 days as opposed to a week. I also haven’t had any negative side effects such as cramps or copper odor. I absolutely love mine."

• Mma...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• October 30, 2018

For Birth Control "The insertion was more anxiety than anything. I didn’t find it painful, just a bit of pressure. Periods have become very, very heavy and pretty painful, but its purpose of birth control, ease of use, and out of sight, out of mind type birth control is unbeatable. Also, I switched to this method because hormones did not agree with me, and I couldn’t be happier. The positives outweigh the negatives. I’ve had it for almost 2 years."

• Aug...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 30, 2018

For Birth Control "A positive review! I have never had a child. I was on BCPs for 20 years and intended to get the Mirena implant, thinking the transition would be easier, even though I was interested in being completely hormone-free. I missed a pill before I went in for the procedure and was told I either had to wait, or I could get ParaGard because it functions as emergency contraception. I went for it, and I have been completely satisfied with ParaGard. I bled minimally at the time of insertion, once a day later, and since then it has been business as usual. I have very minor monthly cramping, just like I did before I took BCPs. I still only shed for 3 days and don't even need menstrual products at night. In fact, I had weird spotting for years on the pills, and that has entirely disappeared since getting this IUD a year and a half ago. I have never had many concerns with my reproductive health, so maybe these things make me a better candidate, but I hope this helps someone with their decision."

• Mam...
• September 28, 2018

For Birth Control "I have used ParaGard for 3 years now, and I really enjoy my life without hormones in my birth control. I wish I knew to take some painkillers before I installed ParaGard, as it would've helped with the cramps. Pros: - You never have to remember to take your birth control or worry about missing your pill. - Your period is regulated due to the fact you're not consuming additional hormones. - It's extremely effective. - You don't get any of those hormone-induced side effects; such is the case when you use other hormonal birth control methods. - You don't have to worry about replacing it for 10-12 years. - You can start having children as soon as it is removed. Cons: - Heavy cramping for the first several months. (I had heavy cramps for about 6 months.) - Discomfort during sex. (The discomfort vanished after a few months.) - Does not protect against STDs, but then again, a lot of other methods don't."

• Ang...
• September 25, 2018

For Birth Control "I know we all have individual experiences with ParaGard, and I’m sorry for those women that it did not work for. As we all look for what we think is best for our bodies, I was nervous when I finally had it inserted and had a heavy period for the first 4-6 months that it got my mom scared. To the point she begged me to have it removed. But I stood my ground and gave it the benefit of the doubt that this is the right contraceptive for me. And it is the right one! I have had it for 8 years now, and of course I have one day of heavy cramps for a day or two every cycle. But Imodium actually helped big time! I will finally be removing it next year as we are going to try for another baby. I will still get ParaGard after I give birth again."

• Ell...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 20, 2018

For Birth Control "I got my first ParaGard about 14 months ago. It was an easy choice because of reliability and the lack of hormones. I have been getting very severe cramps for the past 18 years of having a period, the cramping during the dilation of my cervix was not more severe than that, although it did make me briefly weak. It evened out fairly quickly, and I have honestly felt less severe cramps since I have been on it. The bleeding is a little heavier but not markedly so. I use a DivaCup when I am on my period, and last month accidentally didn't break the suction when I was removing it, and this dislodged my ParaGard, so it had to be removed, and I had a new one inserted today. For the new insertion, the cramping did not last as long as the first time (I was able to head back into work within an hour)."

• Ell...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 20, 2018

For Birth Control "I got my first ParaGard about 14 months ago. It was an easy choice because of reliability and the lack of hormones. I have been getting very severe cramps for the past 18 years of having a period, the cramping during the dilation of my cervix was not more severe than that, although it did make me briefly weak. It evened out fairly quickly, and I have honestly felt less severe cramps since I have been on it. The bleeding is a little heavier but not markedly so. I use a DivaCup when I am on my period, and last month accidentally didn't break the suction when I was removing it, and this dislodged my ParaGard, so it had to be removed, and I had a new one inserted today. For the new insertion, the cramping did not last as long as the first time (I was able to head back into work within an hour)."

• All...
• September 12, 2018

For Birth Control "Just got it inserted this morning. Was honestly terrified because of all the reviews and doctors telling me it’ll hurt like anything to get it in, as well as the cramps afterward. The truth as of today: Insertion took about 10 mins. One pinch and one cramp due to the ‘sound’ measuring the length of my uterus. Another pinch and cramp when the IUD was inserted. That’s it! Maybe it was because I expected a lot of pain... maybe it was because I had 800 mg of Ibuprofen 1.5 hrs beforehand. Also, I’ve had very strong contractions ending in a miscarriage 3 months ago at 14 weeks pregnant, so I’ve known so much worse pain! 5 mins later.... left the doctor's office with a mild cramp not stronger than when you need to take a poo, lol. 5 hours in and I’ve already eaten, drunk, and worked out with 0 discomfort."

• Lau...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• August 20, 2018

For Birth Control "Just had it placed. Was so scared because of people's reviews, but it didn't hurt at all. My whole appointment was 8 minutes, and it took less than a minute to set it, literally. And I have only had very slight period-like cramps. My doctor would only place it while I was on my period to help with placement discomfort because the cervix slightly dilates while you're on your cycle."

• Squ...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• August 17, 2018

For Birth Control "I love it! Do not get this if you already have a heavy cycle!! I went from a 3-day period, no cramping, light flow, to a crampy normal to heavy flow! If you already have a heavy flow, it will make it much worse! I love it though! The cramps are unreal some days, but nothing medicine can't kick. If you can tolerate hormones, definitely look into the hormonal IUDs too, but I can't do hormones, and this is perfect! Hope this helps!"

• Arr...
• July 7, 2018

For Birth Control "Got IUD placed 6 weeks after having my baby in 2010. I took 2 ibuprofen an hour before and felt a painful but short pinch during insertion (3/10). I was crampy the rest of the day and had more crampiness than usual during my period for a few months after once it finally came back—completely manageable with ibuprofen. This was the only long-term option for me because I have a history of clots and can’t take hormonal birth control. I’ve had it for 9 years and will get another, especially now that insurance pays for it. Worth it to not worry about getting pregnant, and I like not having to fumble around with birth control when I am with my husband."

• Abb...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 6, 2018

For Birth Control "Had ParaGard inserted at my six-week checkup postpartum. Took ibuprofen as instructed before insertion. Had minor pain and spotting but was fine after a day. Had no effect on how heavy my periods were once they returned, but I do think I had more cramping the first six months. I have had this IUD for 9 years with no problem, and I will get another to make it to menopause. I can’t use hormonal birth control due to the risk for clots, so this was the most fail-safe, cost-effective option available. At present, if you have ACA-compliant insurance, it is covered (was not when I got mine, but it was worth every penny). Great choice for birth control, especially if you have already had a child (easier insertion)."

• Mom...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 8, 2018

For Birth Control "Lots of bad reviews, and I'm sorry to the many women who have had bad experiences with ParaGard. Mine has been great, and I totally recommend it. I haven't had any of the symptoms other women have had. As far as insertion, a slight pinch. No cramps after. Spotting, yes, for maybe two months, but no constant bleeding. Periods for the first three months were beyond horrible! But then calmed down. The period has gone from 4-5 days to 7 days, but only one heavy day. It does linger towards the end. I did bleed after sex for about 6 months. But other than that, it's been great. Strings don't bother my BF, no cramps, no lack of sex drive, no acne, no PMS, no irritability, no foggy mind, etc. I'm the same as always. Of course, everyone is different, and you know your body the best. Just know after the first few months, it does get better!"

• PZa...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 27, 2018

For Birth Control "Please do not base your decision on these reviews! I literally almost backed out of getting the ParaGard because of posted experiences. I reminded myself my body hates hormones and may react differently, and I am so glad I trusted my instincts. Upon insertion, I experienced about 30 seconds of slightly above mild discomfort while my cervix was being dilated. A sharp, piercing pain was maybe a second when he put it in, and for the remainder of the day, I didn't even experience cramping or pain. I could tell there was a different feeling, but nothing that required medication. I have barely spotted since it's been in, but a couple of times I have bled similar to menstruation while using the restroom. Overall, and beyond pleasantly surprised thus far with my experience and feel free knowing I no longer have hormones being pumped into my body. Medicine is not a perfect science, so do your research, know your body, and talk with your physician. So glad I took the plunge and did this."

• Sum...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 24, 2018

For Birth Control "Just for background, I have 2 kids, my last one is 7 months, and I don’t have the highest pain tolerance either, just FYI. I just had my Paragard put in about an hour ago, and so far so good. I did a lot of research on it beforehand and kind of psyched myself out because of all of the negative experiences I read. My experience was totally opposite. I felt the insertion, but it was not painful at all, just a little uncomfortable. I didn’t know I was feeling the insertion until the doctor told me we were all done. The whole procedure took about 5 minutes. I did take 800 mg ibuprofen right before my appt., so I haven’t felt any cramping as of yet. I just had it done, so obviously I can’t attest to any after-effects, but I thought I would share my experience with the procedure itself. Everyone is different, so take these reviews and experiences with a grain of salt. And relax during the procedure as it will be more painful if you’re tense and tightening your muscles."

• Mor...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 7, 2018

For Birth Control "I had the ParaGard inserted almost 5 months postpartum after being on the pill for a few months and experiencing negative hormonal side effects. I read horror stories about the insertion and was completely terrified-DON’T freak out. It did not give me the “worst cramps of my life” or anything remotely close. Just breathe through it and get a good doctor who has done these often, and it’s a breeze. I had minor cramps the first day and even less the following day, nothing super noticeable. I spotted for about four days afterward and then was done! So far, I love this IUD. I’ll update after I get my first period (who knows when that will happen though as I am currently nursing)."

• Mor...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 7, 2018

For Birth Control "I had the ParaGard inserted almost 5 months postpartum after being on the pill for a few months and experiencing negative hormonal side effects. I read horror stories about the insertion and was completely terrified-DON’T freak out. It did not give me the “worst cramps of my life” or anything remotely close. Just breathe through it and get a good doctor who has done these often, and it’s a breeze. I had minor cramps the first day and even less the following day, nothing super noticeable. I spotted for about four days afterward and then was done! So far, I love this IUD. I’ll update after I get my first period (who knows when that will happen though as I am currently nursing)."

• Anonymous
• March 30, 2018

For Birth Control "I got ParaGard inserted near the end of December 2017. I decided to go hormone-free after bad experiences with the mini pill and the combo pill relating to YIs and BV. The insertion was fast. I've never had my cervix dilated before, so it was a pretty intense few seconds. Mild cramping for a week or two after. When I got to my first period, the cramps sucked. I bought my first heating pad, and my significant other listened to me use controlled breathing through the waves of pain. My second month was equally brutal. I almost threw up from the cramps and spent a full day in bed and was bleeding through regular tampons every half hour. BUT the third month was normal. One heavy day, a few medium days, and one or two light spotting days. And the cramps were tolerable and manageable. No BV, no YIs, no babies. I know everyone has their own experience, but don't let the negative reviews scare you away. If you can grit your teeth through the first few months, it's totally worth it, in my humble opinion."

• Anonymous
• March 30, 2018

For Birth Control "I got ParaGard inserted near the end of December 2017. I decided to go hormone-free after bad experiences with the mini pill and the combo pill relating to YIs and BV. The insertion was fast. I've never had my cervix dilated before, so it was a pretty intense few seconds. Mild cramping for a week or two after. When I got to my first period, the cramps sucked. I bought my first heating pad, and my significant other listened to me use controlled breathing through the waves of pain. My second month was equally brutal. I almost threw up from the cramps and spent a full day in bed and was bleeding through regular tampons every half hour. BUT the third month was normal. One heavy day, a few medium days, and one or two light spotting days. And the cramps were tolerable and manageable. No BV, no YIs, no babies. I know everyone has their own experience, but don't let the negative reviews scare you away. If you can grit your teeth through the first few months, it's totally worth it, in my humble opinion."

• Nii...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• February 12, 2018

For Birth Control "I got mine in 2010. It was painful to get out, but I was told by the doctor it would be. I had some bleeding and spotting for about 6 months after I got it. On some random occasions, I do have some discomfort during sex, but it's so random that it does not bother me. I find that it happens when I'm about to start my cycle. Yes, I do get cramps now that I never had before I got the ParaGard, but I can deal with that. I actually have lost lots of weight. I'm not sure if it was this or the fact I'm no longer on the depo shot. All in all, I'm very happy with it. I've had no issues with it, and it's been in for 8 years now. I got it for 2 more years and plan to get another one after I have to get this one out."

• Anonymous
• February 1, 2018

For Birth Control "I had the ParaGard in place for 3.5 years prior to having children, then again for 1.5 years (& counting) after having children. Insertion the first time was painful but brief. The doctor had me schedule my appointment while I was on my period so that my cervix would be softer and instructed me to take OTC Tylenol to help with the pain. I had significant cramping for a few days after insertion and some cramping and heavy bleeding during my first few periods, then my cycles went back to normal and I had absolutely no symptoms for the next 3 years. I was able to conceive 1 month after having the ParaGard removed and had my 2nd ParaGard placed at my 6-week postpartum checkup after having my second child. Insertion (without any meds and without being on my period) felt like a quick pinch, and I experienced a day of mild cramping before everything went back to normal. My personal experience with ParaGard has been great, and I plan on using it for as long as I’m in need of contraception!"