Comparing Larissia vs ParaGard

For Birth Control: At 41 yo, I recently asked my Dr to go back on a low dose BC despite having had my tubes tied after my last child’s birth. I was suffering from heavy bleeding and cycles ranging from 22 to 32 days and just wanted some predictability. I took Larissa for two packs back-to-back starting off... no real side effects to start, but by week 2, some pimples. They eventually cleared up, but by then the crazy bloating/ constipation/ weight gain had kicked in. My face was puffy, and I didn’t fit in a single pair of jeans despite continuing my usual workout routine and not changing my (healthy-normal) diet. I ended up gaining 12 pounds over 6 weeks, which is a lot of weight for my petite frame! After the 2nd pack, I had a period which was light, but still not worth starting another pack.

For Birth Control: took this for 1 month and experienced no major mood swings or nausea. However, immediately, I got CANKER sores (I never get these) and pimples (when my complexion is generally clear). Then I had light spotting for a few days about 1.5 weeks prior to when my period should have came - then it was followed by heavy breakthrough bleeding. Can't recommend this if you're trying to regulate your period. Will be switching to a different brand.

For Birth Control: I had the copper IUD 9 months. Overall its a good form of birth control. However I got it removed because I think it led to horrible periods, not only more blood but also longer periods, up to 10 days, PMS depression and hormone related conditions. My hair also started falling out after 7 months, may be due to anemia caused by blood loss. I think it's not wise to leave it in too long.

For Birth Control: Really conflicted on ParaGard. For more than two years, I was happy to deal with the side effects (heavier periods w/ stronger cramping) if it meant safe, non-hormonal birth control. However, due to some recent HEAVY & fresh bleeding outside of my normal period, something didn't feel right, so I went to an OBGYN for an exam and an ultrasound. If you think something's wrong with your IUD, MAKE SURE YOU GET AN ULTRASOUND!! After the visual exam she said it seemed fine, but an ultrasound revealed that my IUD had dropped too low into my cervix AND was partially twisted, with one arm not fully deployed. They suspect when I got it inserted I wasn't properly measured, and my too-small uterus had been trying to expel it over time. The technician said that if it couldn't be easily removed in the office ASAP, they'd need to do it in a hospital. Thankfully, it came out with no issues. My doctor recommended Kyleena bc it's smaller but I'm not sure I'm keen on another IUD.