Comparing Apri vs ParaGard

For Birth Control Was put on this because of PCOS, did exactly what it was supposed to do. Got my period exactly every 28 days, no major side effects except for weight gain (part of which I blame for starting college at the same time). Didn't gain weight at first, then I gained 10-15lbs, and overall I gained 35-40lbs. It wasn't easy to lose the weight on this either, even with diet and regular exercise.

For Birth Control I've jumped around to many birth control pills through the years - some landed me in the hospital with severe blinding abdominal pain, some made me suicidal, and some made me nauseous. This is the first one that did not do that so I was thrilled. It also bettered my severe cystic hormonal acne to only about a blemish or two a month. However, it absolutely killed every ounce of my sex drive which used to be high and healthy. That's been very frustrating. Otherwise, okay pill.

For Birth Control I just received the Paragard today and wanted to share about the procedure. I'm 30, with 5 kids (just had twins 3 months ago today)I said 'over my dead body I'm getting pregnant again, knowing I'm prone to having twins!'. I told my doc I wanted something as close to being sterile as possible without going under. So, I chose the Paragard. Hormone free and stays for 10yrs, or until you want it removed. The process wasn't painful. But you have to remember, the more kids you have, it's not painful. And, if you just gave birth, it's not as painful either. Of course if you're uterus hasn't been through any changes, it will feel like a big cramp and discomfort. I've spotted so far. I will keep posting on changes every month!

For Birth Control I'm 34 years old with 2 kids. I had the Paragard IUD inserted 3 & 1/2 yrs ago shortly after the birth of my 2nd child. The procedure was quick. I experienced a little discomfort but nothing unbearable. Fast forward to 2016, I requested my GYN remove the Paragard IUD today. It took all of 30 seconds to remove but did leave me spotting. My reasons to remove included the following: 1) shortly before my period I would spot for approximately 3-4 days and then proceed to bleed for a minimum of 9 days 2) constant vaginal discharge which resulted in me having to wear a panty liner daily and 3) since it's insertion, my cravings for sugar have tremendously increased. After 3 years, I finally just had enough of dealing with these side effects.