Copper topical and Heavy Periods: What Users Say

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 24, 2021

Copper topical for Birth Control "I understand everyone’s body is different, but after reading reviews on drugs.com for multiple things, I’m convinced people only really write reviews after a really bad experience. As my gyno told me, people don’t write reviews when they are content. So I’m going to write a review to say the copper IUD is 1000% the way to go if you are looking for non-hormonal birth control. I spent years on the pill that gave awful side effects. I have had zero side effects from the IUD. Yes, my first period was heavy. I’ve had moderate to heavy periods for most of my life accompanied with cramps, it’s nothing that is not manageable. If you are looking for peace of mind for ten years without risking the horrible side effects of hormonal birth control, get this."

• Dee...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 24, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "Don’t let these reviews scare you, try for yourself & see how you feel!! Insertion was very painful for me, but I am always in pain with any cervix procedure or check (even during labor). So I knew that was a possibility for me personally. Afterwards, I had cramping the entire day. A week later I got a very heavy period with heavy cramping the first day, it lasted about 14 days. I have had the ParaGard for 6 months now, my periods are back to normal after the first 4 months and I never feel it inside. I had light periods before insertion & they are still light after. I’m very happy with mine, try for yourself before letting these reviews scare you. Most people only review if something goes wrong. There are tons of women who are happy with theirs who do not think to come online & review it."

• Sat...
• February 23, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I am extremely happy with my ParaGard! The stress leading up was worse than any part of the procedure itself; it's like a very strong cramp, but it's over in a second. I took 800 mg of ibuprofen before and got it inserted on the last day of my period. Over the next few days, the cramps and bleeding got worse, but subsided after a week or so. Had a period 3 weeks after insertion. The flow was heavier and lasted longer for the first few periods, but it's back to about what it was before. Cramps are nothing ibuprofen can't help with. I have health anxiety, so I was super nervous about the ParaGard. I'd tried hormonal birth control and nothing worked. Now, I forget about it 99% of the time. Been to the gynecologist a million times because I was convinced it was puncturing my uterus, and it hasn't budged once. I exercise intensely with no issues, and the same for sex. As far as copper poisoning, I've had ZERO of the symptoms the other reviews talk about."

• Lil...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 26, 2021

Copper topical for Birth Control "I had the ParaGard inserted 3 years ago. The pain was minimal, and I experienced minor cramping. My periods became much heavier, between 7-12 days. Earlier this year, I began experiencing my first signs of copper toxicity: severe panic attacks, painful muscles and joints, and fatigue. Then the second copper dump came about 2 weeks ago. My chest and back are inflamed and painful, my joints pop everywhere, limbs tingle with pins and needles, extreme fatigue, and anxiety. I had enough yesterday morning and removed it myself. Don't listen to the studies that tell you it doesn't cause copper toxicity, copper is stored in the tissues, not the blood or urine, and those trials did not test for it correctly. Proceed with caution. The only positive side to this is that I never fell pregnant, so in that regard, it worked, but the side effects were too horrible to keep it."

• Ell...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 7, 2015

Copper topical for Birth Control "After reading some of the scary reviews in this forum, I almost talked myself out of getting the ParaGard. I think that people are more likely to post if they've had a bad experience, so I wanted to add my own story to the mix. I've had a ParaGard for about a month now, and opted for ParaGard over birth control pills or a hormonal IUD because I liked the idea of a hormone-free option. Previously, I'd been on birth control pills for several years, and although my experience with the pill was generally positive, it took my body a while to regulate after I discontinued use the first time. After doing some research, I decided to have the ParaGard inserted at Planned Parenthood as opposed to my regular OBGYN because the providers there insert dozens of these a day and have more experience with them. I've never had a baby, and the insertion was uncomfortable but bearable. It basically felt like a very intense cramp, but was over in a few minutes. I'm sure that it helps to have an experienced provider. Following the insertion, I felt like I had mild to moderate menstrual cramps, but was able to return to work for the rest of the afternoon with minimal discomfort. In the week following the insertion, you will need to wear panty liners because you leak a clearish brownish fluid, which feels a bit strange. The feeling freaked me out at first, but it went away pretty quickly and stopped altogether within a week. In the weeks that followed, I had intermittent menstrual cramps as my body adjusted. My biggest fear was that my cramps during my period would be unbearable (they are usually very bad), but I was happy to find out that they weren't any worse than usual, although my period was heavier. If you are looking for a hormone-free option, I'd recommend ParaGard. The key is just knowing what to expect early on."

• Nop...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• January 30, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "Worse health decision I’ve ever made. I’m 28 and had it for 6 years. My once thick hair fell out in clumps. Pain, bloating, and PMS symptoms all month. 12-day HEAVY periods. Just because it’s non-hormonal doesn’t mean it’s not going to affect your hormones, and just because copper is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe to shove into your uterus."

• Ari...
• August 27, 2018

Copper topical for Birth Control "I had this IUD inserted two and a half years ago. At first, I had mild cramping, heavy periods, but I got used to that. Constant, copious discharge was inconvenient, but I wore panty shields every day. But after a while, I just found myself constantly ‘coping’ with the symptoms. I started to gain weight no matter what I did, still not suspecting the IUD until I started thinking back to when I began to have unexplained weight gain. I had it removed 5 days ago, and I’ve lost 4 lbs, no longer feel bloated all over, and my blood pressure is now back to normal instead of the unusually high reading on ParaGard. NEVER AGAIN! For those of you who think we are being mean for posting a negative review, it’s not meant to be harmful but helpful to other people suffering the same way. Everyone is different, just sharing my experience so other people are aware, as I wasn’t for 2 and 1/2 years."

• KRI...
• March 9, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I have the ParaGard for almost 10 years now. It was a while ago, right after I had my son. During my six-week postnatal check-up, I believe that it was inserted. I don't remember it hurting at all. The only complaint initially was a heavy period, which sometimes lasted 14 days, longer and longer. That eased up about 4 to 5 months in. I haven't had any issues, regular period cramps, but not each month. Strings are there every month, no pain, no infections, no weight gain (aside from what laziness produced), nothing serious at all. My son is 10 next month, so it works."

• Pea...
• November 27, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "Inserted ParaGard 1/2006, immediate mental health issues started, felt like a zombie, severe depression, worthless feeling, unmotivated, mean, dark thoughts, gained 30 pounds, thinning hair and loss, back pain, joint/body aches, heavy periods, cranky, low libido. Vaginal odor, bacterial infections despite celibacy, insomnia, brain fog, forgetfulness, unable to lose weight. Removed 11/11. Lighter periods, able to sleep, lose weight, depression lessened, no more vaginal odors or infections."

• Jan...
• September 10, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I've had ParaGard for 3 years. I love it. Absolutely no changes or side effects. That's why I love it, because it's non-hormonal and doesn't affect you mentally or screw up your bodily functions. It's just copper. Insertion was quick and easy. The only difference is my period comes more often now and is heavier than usual. But I don't mind because it's worth it for having the best hormone-free, most effective birth control that lasts for 10 years."

• Kim...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• March 25, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "Oh my! I just had my ParaGard replaced today due to having it for 10 years. I want to point out that every single person is different. Please remember this. I had zero negative complications except for heavier periods the first few years. They did return to normal. Please do not let negative reviews stop you from trying this. It’s been the best birth control, as I had one child and that shop is closed. Again, try it for yourself. This or any IUD for that matter."

• Mel...
• February 8, 2015

Copper topical for Birth Control "When they first tried to insert the ParaGard, the doctor had a problem. My uterus is flipped some type of way. Anyways, it took the doctor and assistant to do it. A little pain, but nothing like giving birth. I do have heavier periods, but no bad cramps. Might be too much TMI, but my sex drive has gone up since having the ParaGard because it doesn't have hormones. I was on birth control and felt so tired and lazy. I love ParaGard, best birth control for me."

• K-b...
• November 17, 2016

Copper topical for Birth Control "I have had my ParaGard for one year, and it's been great! Insertion was not pleasant, but it only lasts a moment, and now it's nothing but a distant memory. My periods were heavier and my cramps more severe for the first three months, but after that, they returned to nearly the same as before. So many people wrote about their terrible experiences that reading up almost stopped me from doing it, and now I'm so glad I got it anyway. Just remember that those who had a negative experience are more likely to post about it, so there's a bias! It's also totally possible that it will go just fine and be a fantastic BC method. Don't be too afraid to try it and see if it's right for you, you can always take it out if it's not."

• yyr...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 15, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "To have it inserted wasn't really bad. I was impressed it's for 10 years and is not hormonal. I had some cramps, some bad ones, and my period is definitely much heavier and lasts 10 days. It didn't change after the first 6 months, but I started bleeding between my periods. And having pain only on the left side. I am dealing with acne now and had horrible migraines nearly every day. I went to the doctor. They said I'm fine. I am feeling very tired. I can't sleep properly and I don't have energy. I also have chest pain, and again the doctor said I am fine. I used to enjoy sex, but now I'm never in the mood-never! For so long. After reading other women's reviews, I related to their symptoms and can't believe the doctors don't tell you about all these side effects. I can't wait to have it removed and don't want to hear about it again! I would not recommend it to any woman. It's sad that we have to go through all this. I'm going to try the fertility awareness method. Take care! Lots of love to all women!"

• Lin...
• May 30, 2014

For Birth Control "I am happy overall with the Paragard (copper) IUD. I like that it's hormone-free birth control. After I had my kids and aged a little, the hormones made my hair fall out. It wasn't pleasant being inserted, but it wasn't the worst either. The first month, I spotted regularly, but when I got my period, it stopped. It took about 5 months for my body to completely adjust (those first 5 months I was having 10-14 day periods), but it started every 28 days to the hour. Now, my periods last 5-7 days (longer than when I was on hormonal birth control), and my cycle is still 28 days. Also, my periods have become slightly heavier, but I never have to use anything more than a light flow tampon. Cramping hasn't been an issue."

• KRa...
• June 9, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "I love my ParaGard! I’ve had it for a month. Insertion was uncomfortable, but nothing you can’t handle. Some cramps the first week, and a slightly longer, heavier period, but again nothing not manageable. I love how I can’t feel it and how it is hormone-free. No adverse side effects, and the best part is how I still ovulate and keep a healthy cycle. I’ve been on the pill and Mirena before and had emotional PMS and also terrible acne. None of that with ParaGard so far, and I often react quickly to things. Don’t fear all the negative reviews. Usually, people who are most angry write the most reviews. Most people get it, enjoy it, and move on with their lives without writing a review. I feel healthy and positive and love owning my own birth control in a positive and non-hormonal way! No one method is perfect, but for me, it’s a great fit based on what’s available."

• LZk...
• October 27, 2015

Copper topical for Birth Control "I was on the pill for years. They made me emotional, killed my sex drive completely, and dried me out, so sex was incredibly painful. I finally gave up on it and relied on condoms, but I wanted something more reliable. Plus, condoms are kind of a killjoy and, well, just aren't the same. The only thing left was ParaGard. Yes, like many others, my periods started out horrendous, but eventually evened out over a year. Cramps, expect to take some ibuprofen and then maybe some acetaminophen. But again, they lessened with time. For me, it was totally worth it. I have an amazing sexual relationship with my husband. Totally worth all the cramps and heavier periods. For me, I felt like it gave me my life back."

• ati...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• June 25, 2021

Copper topical for Birth Control "I picked the copper IUD because I know way too much about the negative side effects of hormonal birth control. Insertion was painful, and the first 6 months, my cramps sucked, and periods were super heavy. Things finally started to regulate, and I was happy, until this month when my period was 2 days late. I took a pregnancy test, and it was POSITIVE. I have only had my IUD for 1.5 years, and I have had it checked multiple times. When I had it removed, it was intact and in its correct position. I am so sad and so frustrated. Never thought this would happen to me, but I guess I’m part of that “1%.”"

• Dan...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 31, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I wanted to write an experience because I looked at multiple reviews right after I got ParaGard inserted, and it freaked me out. The insertion is very painful (I have never had a child before), so that pain was terrible. The first 2 weeks, I had really bad cramps, and my period was SO HEAVY. After my period ended, the cramping went away, no side effects, I hardly know it’s there. It’s way better than having multiple side effects from the pill, and I have had no spotting in between periods, which is common in hormonal IUDs. I had the Liletta for almost 2 years and spotted the whole time. I would recommend it for those who hate side effects from hormones. The cramping sucks at first, but it goes away! Every body is different, so trust your instincts, and if you think you’ll be happy with the ParaGard, I would try it out!"

• Cat...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 28, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I have had mine for 5 years now. I do have heavier periods and cramping, but mine were light in the first place, so now they're average. I check my strings once a month on my period. I know that if there's ever a problem, my body will let me know. When I initially had it placed, the first one didn't sit right, needed to be removed and replaced after a month. Since then, I have had no problems. I could tell that first month that something was off. I was cramping, dizzy, spotting. What I should have done was call my gyn and tell her right away. There should be no pain, even right after. Once it's in and your cervix gets over its little shock, you shouldn't be aware of it. I have not had children, I have a small uterus. I haven't had to worry about pregnancy for 5 years now. I'm in a monogamous relationship, and it lets me feel protected. I'm not looking forward to getting it removed 5 years from now, but it's not something I'm going to worry about. If you have questions, call your doctor."

• Abb...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• December 23, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "I love this BC. I’ve had the ParaGard for about 2 years. It has worked wonderfully for me. I don’t do well with hormonal birth control, so this was the perfect fit for me. My periods were very heavy for the first 4-5 months. If you can get past that, it’s very worth it. My periods are shorter and lighter now than before I had the ParaGard. I’ve seen no sign of any other side effects, and hey!!! I’m not pregnant!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 18, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "I have had the ParaGard for about 6 months now, and it has been great. The insertion was as expected, with the cramping, but once you get through it, it’s okay with Advil. My periods have been heavier, just on the first few days, but it’s nothing unmanageable and definitely worth not putting hormones into my body like with other birth controls. I definitely feel like myself, rather than on other BC, and that’s what I wanted. Weight has stayed the same, sex drive has stayed the same, and skin has stayed the same. It has been a great fit for me! Gives me peace of mind until I decide I want kids one day, which is great."

• Bre...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 23, 2020

Copper topical for Birth Control "I got the ParaGard placed in after I had my first child. It was a tiny bit of cramps when it was placed in, but nothing too painful. I had the ParaGard for 3 years, the only issue was heavy periods and painful cramps. That was only during the days I was getting my period. Other than that, I did not have any other symptoms, it’s like it was never there. Everybody is different, the pill I used to take gave me tons of side effects. I’m glad I chose the ParaGard because I didn’t have to deal with all the side effects I got from taking the pill form of BC. Also, I didn’t get pregnant from it, which is why I wanted to be on birth control in the first place. I got my ParaGard taken out because I’m trying to have another baby. Once that happens, I will be going back to the ParaGard."

• Bla...
• June 23, 2019

Copper topical for Birth Control "So I tried it 2x. 1st after my 2nd child. I gained lots of weight, got acne, cramps, and bleeding heavily. Finally, it fell out about 2 years later. My doc said my body rejected it. I feel like they have false ads saying it has little side effects. Gave it the benefit of the doubt, tried it a 2nd time since my birth control pills were no longer covered by my insurance. Huge mistake. Same thing all over: horrible acne, gained 40 lbs in 1 yr. Nothing helps me lose weight. I was going through tampons & an extra heavy flow pad within 1 hr. Kept bleeding through my clothes, not to mention 10-day periods. My life was on hold, had to miss work because I was bleeding so much. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore, got it taken out after 1 year. My skin is so clear, never break out anymore, not even before periods. My periods are back to 3 days and light. Lost 7 lbs in 1 month so far! Never again! False ads, lots of side effects. Obviously, I’m not the only one by reading some of the reviews. Wish I would have read on it sooner!"

• Lio...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 8, 2014

For Birth Control "Let me be honest. The ParaGuard is a great birth control method because you do not need to think about it. I mean, sex was fine for me, didn't feel anything, but I am a paranoid and anxious person. At first, I always went to the doctor thinking it moved or it was not in place. Years later, I got used to it. I have now had it in for 5 years. I think it is time to take it out and try to have a baby. I can tell you, if you have a high pain tolerance, you are all set, all that will bother you is the heavy periods. I have been in tears for days, tired, and just uncomfortable each and every month I get my period. It is sometimes unbearable."