Quote Originally Posted by Irulan
I"ve heard the new IUDs are much better than the ones' from 20 years ago. You don't hear much about them now. Pharmacetucial companies must make a lot more from marketing ongoing programs vs. a one time deal.

~I
First of all, there are two major types of IUDs - the hormonal ones and the non-hormonal ones made of copper. In the 70s, there was a brand of copper ones that had a flaw in the way they were made (the Dalcon Sheild I believe) in that the cord that hangs from the IUD itself was made of fibers that collected bacteria. There were some deaths caused be infection as a result of this flaw and they were taken off the market. That's why IUDs are not very popular in the US. The flaw was fixed (they now have a single filiment cord, much like a very fine fishline) and they were put back on the US markets several years ago.

However, they have become the most used form of BC world wide. There are many reasons for this (can you tell I did a lot of research before I got mine?), even including the fact that a woman can be on BC without her spouse knowing. Other reasons of course include the fact that it is a one-time expense (well for several years anyway), etc.

I was hesitant to get one because I had heard that they could increase your cramping and flow. While on the pill, I had very light periods and no cramping. I finally realized that if it didn't work out for me, I'd get it removed. I opted for the copper kind because my goal was to A) not use a hormanal method, and B) not have to have it replaced any time soon. Because I'm in my 40s and my IUD will last 10 years, I won't have to have another form of BC - ever.

I've not experienced much in the way of increased cramps and my flow only increased a bit. One nice thing about that is that while on the pill, my periods were so light that I could hardly ever comfortably use tampons. My flow did increase enought that now I can use them again. Other than that, and some normal hormonal fluctuations that are likely the result of my age, things have remained much the same as they did pre-IUD. I love it and would recommend it to anyone.

One thing to note, insertion was rather difficult and quite uncomfortable for me because I have never given birth. Apparently, it is much easier for women who have had children. Still, the discomfort was brief and well worth it.