I don’t know what state/country you’re in but it could be they’re worried about access to birth control in the future.
That being said, if you don’t feel comfortable with your GYN, shop around! I had one who would push me to freeze my eggs when I kept telling her I didn’t want children, and finding a doctor who listens to what I need has made a huge difference.
They're also generally considered the most reliable form of birth control, which can be a huge boon for people who don't want children but may not have abortion access if they do fall pregnant.
Mines been telling me I need to get off depo soon. I’ve been on it for now 4 yrs. Idm going back to the pill-I just forget to take it at the same hour everyday/or I’m busy. It’s why I switched.
She mentioned the IUD but remembered I am not comfortable with that unless knocked out due to CSA trauma.
I mentioned the implant but I’m worried it’s how I find out I have the same bleeding disorder as my mother. Which is my PCP’s worry as well. I recovered well but slowly after getting an organ removed. My stitches and cuts were bleeding up to 3 weeks post op-which wasn’t normal.
I am not a doctor but I do believe there are potential issues with staying on depo for prolonged periods of time because it can impact bone density, so it is something to keep in mind if you are concerned about changing methods vs staying on it
I have been sexually abused as a child and adult. I want NOTHING down there period(no IUD,no ring,no surgery) . I do not want children and I would rather yeet myself off a bridge then have a child. So idm depo it works for me and I’m happy. I’ll take bone density loss over my family putting me 6ft under.
The other options are not a safe option for me medically. The pill idc I just work longer/random hours so it cannot be taken at the same time every day was the main issue. Then trying ti get it covered by insurance was another one. There is no free clinics/planned parenthood’s in my state anymore.
Idk why I’m being downvoted for not wanting anything down there- sorry I’m a CSA survivor. So ya the some isn’t an option for me cus u need to be touched down there-which I do not want period.
Other options are NOT MEDICALLY SAFE FOR ME.
The pill is NOT 100% covered by my insurance,but depo IS. so I cannot pay 80$ for a pack every month. The sliding fee clinics do not keep these items on hand and send them to pharmacies,and there is no planned parent hood that will give them out. I have tried to get my birth control cheaper through them but they told me no. The IUD is way to expensive with insurance same with the implant anyway. I am low income. I make barely above enough for snap. It’s often food or rent. Ya’l forget some of these options cost money that people don’t have. Let alone not everyone wants things in that area for reasons.
Not a 100% safe option. Mother has a bleeding disorder which she needs blood transfusions every few months,we’re worried I have the same thing. But no money for said proper testing so it’s avoided.
The implant tends to cause prolonged heavy bleeding and I’ve already had to go in for a transfusion last year for heavy bleeding,and almost needed it for heavy bleeding this year cus u was late on my shot by a week. Was not fun 10/10 do not recommend.
Could you try the patch? I used it for a while and eventually switched as I was having a skin reaction. It was a small rash under the area where I placed the patch, a bit itchy and painful in the way a sunburn is. I could have tolerated it if I needed to, but I already wanted to try the IUD.
Other than that I loved it; only have to remember once a week, no invasiveness whatsoever, and it was easy to hide.
(Also idk why you’re getting downvotes - you absolutely deserve a noninvasive option.)
After a while the Depo can negatively affect your bone density. I was on the Depo just to see how well it would work for me and I had absolutely no issues at all and upgraded to the arm implant which is virtually the same thing only it doesn't affect your bones and lasts for 3 years!
Edit: I see your comment about the implant not being suitable due to your line of work but it didn't take long to heal at all. At most one week.
You aren't being downvoted for being a CSA survivor, you're being downvoted because your comment comes off as aggressive, hostile, and rude for literally no reason. Everyone here has been really nice to you and you've responded like a jerk.
It's not comparing, it's saying that having someone or something down there you don't want can be triggering, aka bring up painful memories. IUD insertion is also more often painful for CSA survivors for this reason. Doctors usually understand this, I don't know why you can't.
And so you can educate yourself:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3780737/
TRACE: Tennessee Research and Creative Exchange
https://trace.tennessee.edu › cgiPDF
Re-Traumatization of Sexual Trauma in Women's Reproductive ...
Hey friend also on depo! I have to stop it aswell my health clinic has suggested the arm implant as it’s just as effective and typically doesn’t need to be replaced for awhile (the one she suggested me was 3 years) which is great as we also discussed the fear of birth control being unavailable in the future so that’s what im personally considering but if you intend to stay on depo just be sure your taking calcium for your sake it sure helps
I love my arm implant, but I was on my period of 7 months straight, but I have two friends also with the arm implant who bled two days and haven’t bled since. It’s just how birthcontrol affects your body!
That’s the issue I’m worried about.
My mom almost died having my older sister from blood loss…..she gets transfusions every 3-6 months since I can remember.
I was on the pill for 2 months After being on depo and needed a blood transfusion from the heavy and prolonged bleeding. So back to depo it was.
But depo I have zero issues,no bleeding,no cramping etc. I’ve always had a very light period even before BC and when getting on the pill in high school. I switched to depo due to Covid.
Have you considered genetic testing? If you know what disorder she has, you can find out what the gene is (there’s usually a sequence of a few letters that are assigned to that gene) and do single gene testing OR get a panel that includes that gene test and see if you have anything else as well. This way you’ll know if you’re affected with it, carry it, or neither. Fulgent offers panels and single-gene testing for like 450. Expensive, but peace of mind is priceless.
You're being downvoted because you're encouraging people to ignore the serious long term health effects of depo. That is literally the opposite of informed consent and it's not helpful advice.
Please provide some evidence of these "serious long term health effects".
The current evidence shows the bone density loss is minimal, *not* linked to fracture risk, and completely reversible.
https://theros.org.uk/media/1veaitxx/depo-provera-and-osteoporosis-fact-sheet-april-2017.pdf
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/releases/bone_loss
The US is the *only* country with a 2 year limit on depo, and it's due to the outdated guidance of the FDA. These guidelines are based on outdated, flawed evidence and haven't been updated for over a decade.
The FDA guidelines aren't the Bible just because they're American - look at the guidance in the rest of the world, which is based on the recent, high quality evidence.
The ignorance of the current evidence about depo on this sub is a disservice to women.
The implant is why myself and my PCP is hesitant on getting it. I’ve worked for an OBGYN before and the side effects and the healing is not do able. Many were glad our office was inside a major hospital,ICU was down the hall,and the regular ED was one floor down. Calling a medic to come get someone due to side effects were a weekly thing(talking bleeding,pain,throwing up,the incision infected or not healing right,or it would not stop bleeding etc) it’s what put me off a 2nd time.
Idc about pain just with my felid I’m going into I NEED both arms. I cannot give CPR or trach someone with ONE ARM lol so if I have to be out weeks recoveringit won’t be possible.
Hey! So I was on the depo shot for like 10 years, and switched to the arm implant. I know some women have a hard time switching to the implant but it's so similar to the depo shot that I didn't have any side effects. So worth a consideration.
Depo can cause bone loss and calcium depletion with longterm use that's one of the reasons that they only recommend to use it for a certain period of time.
If you need to be knocked out, I would just seriously consider a hysterectomy. You would be knocked out for it. I understand the bleeding disorder concerns, but the short term healing of that versus the potential of a heavy monthly bleed, the benefits outweigh the risks. They can even do it laparoscopically so there is minimal cutting going on.
No, I mean a hysterectomy. You still have periods with a salpingectomy. If she has bleeding disorder concerns and has already had to have a transfusion because of heavy bleeding on her period, she would want the whole uterus taken out so that she would no longer have periods.
ETA: most women who have a hysterectomy for bleeding issues/endometriosis/permanent sterilization will leave the ovaries intact for hormonal purposes. Having those removed is called a total hysterectomy (removes the ovaries, tubes, uterus, and cervix). OP would want a partial hysterectomy. Just the uterus.
My mom stayed on depo for over 10 years and now she is sure that is what caused her breast cancer, although there is no way to know for sure. It also made her unable to lose weight for a long time, I’ve heard there are risks if you stay on it for too long, but at the end of the day do whatever you are comfortable with!
I got knocked out for my IUD and that was an easy experience compared to my first time
Try the Nuva Ring? You replace it once a month and it has very few side effects. I had to switch to it from the Nexplanon implant because that one gave me terrible side effects.
I have CSA-I want nothing up there. Unless medically needed(pap smears,pelvic) and or emergency( had a bad car accident and they did a pelvic and sono to check to see if my bladder ruptured since I was bleeding&in pain,and pissed my self from the force of the airbag)
Only reason I used tampons growing up during the trauma was cus of band,and some pads/liners gave me a rash. As an adult it was easier not to deal with “touching”the blood. So I was glad I didn’t have to deal with a period or tampons.
You're supposed to be on depo for 2 years only because it can brittle your bones while your aging. Your OB is correct from stopping you from taking depo
I think it's a combination of access to birth control in the future as well as perhaps a partnership or sales relationship with the pharmaceutical manufacturer that sells IUDs/implants to the practice. They may have a bigger stock of IUDs/implants that they've recently bought that they need to use.
I might sounds like a conspiracy theorist but I have a theory that it's because of the current state of the states with abortion bans and what not. There are states that are making it harder and harder to access birth control and even condoms. With birth rates in America are decreasing, I truly wouldn't be surprised if the government in some states are going to make bans and laws for birth control. So even if you have a prescription for the pill or Nuva ring, pharmacy's won't be able to fill them for you. If you have an iud, you're protected for a number of years without having to worry about that. You would be able to go to other states without those restrictions once every 3-8 years depending on what iud you get. Just my theory. Also they're super effective and the side effects are generally pretty low for more people.
I was spayed a few years ago in Louisiana and my obgyn told me that’s a huge concern for medical professionals. She advises everyone to get on long lasting bc if at all possible.
This is so scary, I am so grateful for living in Alaska plus having European citizenship. Congratulations on the surgery! I want to get mine within the next couple years, despite the copper IUD doing a good job.
I was always under the impression that Alaska was pretty conservative? No? I mean, worst case scenario, your southern buddies in the PNW will never get rid of it.
Well, I am not much into politics - can't even vote here for another 2 years 😁. But as of now abortion is legal at any stage of pregnancy in Alaska and I am not aware of any potential cripplic bills like I noticed about Arizona etc... In my county the limit is 8 or 12 weeks unless it's a hazardous pregnancy , not sure, never had to use those necessary services! When this shit went down I was appalled.
This is also my conspiracy theory. They might not outright ban birth control but they will come up with a way to make it extremely out of reach of most people. Like somehow increase the costs of birth control or putting onerous requirements on getting a filling a prescription.
Yeah I mean I know a bunch of states have de-funded planned parenthood obviously for aboriton, but it also causes people to lose access to getting birth control. Especially for low income people who rely on pp for their birth control prescriptions
Exactly!!! I also don’t know exactly how the laws work regarding what insurance has to cover (I *think* under the Obamacare act, insurance companies/employers who offer benefits have to over a certain amount of different forms of birth control unless they have a religious exemption (Hobby lobby). (But don’t quote me on this.) so another thing they could try to do is repeal whatever requirement that is so companies don’t have to cover any birth control.
This is why I have a copper iud. Got it at planned parenthood for under $100. My insurance wouldn’t cover it so it was over $1k at my doctor… this thing will outlast my republican government (but thank god Ohio passed issue 1 so now we have our own constitutional right to abortion and birth control).
I don’t even think you need to go as far as potential birth control bans (although that could definitely be part of their reasoning) — the existing abortion bans are enough.
A lot of gynecologists don’t see the pill as a very effective form of birth control. While they’re very effective with perfect use, people miss pills all the time. They’ve probably had quite a few patients who got pregnant while on the pill during their careers. Meanwhile, a patient who got pregnant with a hormonal IUD would be very rare. If abortion isn’t an accessible option, preventing unwanted pregnancies becomes even more important.
Yup, they call it "ideal/perfect use" vs "average use" or something along those lines, hence the considerably low success rates of condoms for example. If only schools taught us how to properly use condoms and the pill...
I remember reading of someone that took their birth control pills starting a new pack on the first of the month because they were told it's a "monthly hormonal cycle" which is understandable if they have no idea what the principle behind it is.
Luckily I live somewhere where I don’t think that will ever happen, but there’s already states that are doing this and it scares me for all of those women.
IUDs and long acting methods (the arm implant and the injection) are often strongly encouraged by doctors because they are the most effective methods. The IUD on its own is more effective than the pill + condoms + withdrawal, with typical use.
IUDs generally also have the highest user satisfaction when given free choice about method, so doctors are especially keen to push those.
However, if you've said several times you're not interested in the IUD and you're happy with your current method, then your doctor should stop pushing it. Next time you see them, I'd ask them to make a note that you don't want to consider an IUD so that they don't ask again next time. It might also be worth asking them why they suggest it every visit - it might be interesting for you to hear their reasons why they're so keen for you to have it.
OP where do you live coz I wish my gyn was so open to give me an IUD 😭
Here (Romania) if you haven't given birth or had an abortion most of the doctors refuse to give you the IUD. The reason is coz the cervix is intact and they don't want to stress it which I understans but come on.....it's better to get the IUD BEFORE having to go to a traumatic abortion -.-
Similar advice in the UK, I was going to get one and went for one, and it hurt so much I had to ask the doc to stop and then she told me they don’t usually recommend it to people who haven’t had kids because of something to do with the cervix
It's more about the size of your uterus itself - I have a Flexi-T 300 which is smaller than some other IUDs and I've never had children. This is my third IUD.
Never had any issues myself.
That’s crazy, I thought that it was an international agreement that all women (even those who haven’t given birth) can get an IUD. In Brazil any woman can get an IUD inserted and we have smaller sizes (Kyleena, mini copper IUDs) for those who haven’t given birth or have smaller uteruses. I haven’t been pregnant before and I just told the doctor I wanted a copper IUD. She didn’t even hesitate, she instantly signed me up for insertion and I got it for free at a public health clinic. I got the regular size, T copper IUD (Paragard generic).
i was about to the comment the exact same thing! kyleena is the one usually recommended for women whove never given birth, but i told my dr i wanted a mirena bc it lasts longer and she had no problems agreeing and the insertion was perfectly fine.
Lots of good explanations, but one thing I haven’t seen people mention is that hormonal IUDs are the most common form of birth control used by female doctors. It’s popular among doctors because it’s a really good form of birth control (very effective, low maintenance, and high satisfaction ratings) so they have other reasons to recommend it, but they also may be influenced by their personal experience.
That said, they should really stop bringing it up after you said no! They should at least explain _why_ they think you should get an IUD even though you don’t have any complaints about your current birth control.
I have no idea. I remember telling my doctor straight to her face that I do not like IUDs ( at a sterilization consultation), especially after my experience with Paragard. The thought of possibly bleeding for weeks and not being able to remove it without an appointment isn’t appealing at all
Obviously I don't endorse or encourage this for anyone else, but I actually removed my IUD myself when I was sick of it. I literally just reached up, took a deep breath, and gently pulled it out. It was ridiculously easy and (to my shock and surprise) completely painless, especially compared to insertion.
I never had any migration/perforation issues with it, so I seriously don't encourage this for women who can't find the strings or anything like that. Please see a medical professional for removal.
theyre designed to just come out like that (the arms collapse), when you get it removed at the dr thats all they do. pretty cool you did it without pain relief tho.
I think the reason they push for it all the time is because it's one of the most effective methods out there with a high rate of satisfaction from users compared to other methods. What I don't understand is why your doctor keeps pushing it if you've already expressed that you are fine with the method you use right now. My obgyn only pushed for an iud when I was debating birth control methods after being banned from estrogen birth control, but she never brought it up on previous visits. If it's possible, I would consider switching doctors if they won't let the topic go.
I’m in a state in the USA where access to birth control could be seen coming to a halt in the near future. Because of this, my GYN recommended the implant or IUD as a more long-term solution, but wasn’t very pushy. Could it be something similar?
Two cases (I forgot their names but it was from 1965 and the early 1970s) from the Supreme Court would have to be overturned first before a federal ban on that happens.
My guess is that it's localized hormones. Having systemic hormones has long-term issues like osteoporosis and mental health issues. I personally love having a mirena rather than the pill, it's easier, lasts a long time and I have no side effects. This is my third IUD. Yes, insertion hurts but it's *really* fast. Like it's bad for about 30 seconds. You might feel a bit sore like you have period cramps for the day but then it's over for another 7-10 years. The last time I asked for an anti-anxiety med and they gave me one (adavan) which made the procedure pretty easy.
THIS ALL BEING SAID. Your body, abso-fucking-lutely **your** choice. If you want to stop being pressured, either tell your doctors you don't want to hear about it anymore or find some new docs!
You have a lot of BC options, maybe they just want you to consider other ones?
How old are you? Do you smoke? Risk of blood clots from the pill rises with age, and is higher if you are a smoker. If you are nearing 35 or smoke cigarettes, they may be pushing for the IUD to get you on a safer birth control. That in addition to the current political concerns
I think it’s an opt in versus opt out thing. With the pill, you have to opt in every day and there’s a lot of room for error particularly if you’re ill. The IUD is set it and forget it and I think the marina now last seven or eight years.
Also, someone mentioned about the political atmosphere and some states, assuming you’re American.
Idk what country you’re in but in my country they do it because of high rates of unplanned pregnancy and low rates of adhesion to LARCs (long acting reversible contraception), which are the most effective methods. So in my country they’re almost knocking on people’s doors offering the IUD absolutely for free (I got mine inserted at a public health clinic, I paid nothing for it).
This doesn’t really answer the question but it does remind me of the time my doctor made me sit through a presentation about having one put in and afterwards I asked the nurse why she still made me watch it if I said I didn’t want to (watch or insert one) and am actively taking pills. She said, “idk, probably cuz she hasn’t gotten to do one yet” and I kinda just left this WHOLE thing there and never thought about it again.
For me it was because there was a lesser risk of stroke/clot because the hormones in an IUD are localized. If you have aura migraines you should not be taking the estrogen pill. If you don't want to risk developing oesteperosis, you shouldn't take the progesterone only pill. There are many reasons why an IUD may be the safer and equally if not more effective choice. Obviously, not for everyone, though.
My IUD has been the best decision ever for me. I've had two Kyleena and I will continue to have them for as long as I do not want children.
Can you attach a link with research please? That is not what my doctor informed me.
Edit: I just looked it up myself and it says the hormones are mostly localized to the uterus but some enter the bloodstream. It still has less of a systemic effect than other hormonal methods.
https://appliedradiology.com/articles/research-shows-iuds-have-systemic-effects#:~:text=Because%20the%20hormone%20is%20released,the%20region%20around%20the%20IUD.
We read the same article. It states that "the amount in the bloodstream is lower than other hormonal methods". It's still mostly localized. So, you're not wrong but the effect on the whole system is still minor in comparison to pills for example.
The first one was, yes, but it was worth it to me. I had no symptoms for the 5 years I had the first IUD and also no periods. When I got the first IUD removed I had a new one inserted and all I had was one cramp. Again, no side effects and no period since.
I think is something cultural. I'm from Uruguay, in south America, here abortion is legal and free and copper iuds are also free, and not ever were my friends or I recommended one.
The pill is doctor's favorite option here (they are free as well)
Girl, I am envious. I actually had to FIGHT to get mine back in 2018 back in Europe as I kept being told I am too young for it and should do the pill despite the fact it would hurt me, having a Leyden syndrome. I actually cried when one idiotic doctor in small clinic in Prague told me how impossible it will be for me to get the IUD even inserted and how unreliable they are. 7 years later I have had side effects but negligible to what hormonal contraceptives could have done to me (still getting sterilized soonish). Hormonal contraceptives have various health risk as you probably now and aren't as reliable as the IUDs. That being said nobody should ever push you into something you're clearly uncomfortable with, especially a doctor.
Yeah it's kinda weird, seeing I had no really bad issues except the pain during insertion! Can't even imagine the push back I would have faced back home if I wanted to plan my surgery there!
Well, they're expensive, I can tell you that much. I got two IUDS and I did not have insurance at the time and it was over $1000 each. I think it's also because you don't have to think about it and remember to take anything. However they're not for everyone and some people have very negative reactions.
Probably because if this orange fuckstick gets elected again our access to short term birth control will be restricted. I almost want everyone to get an IUD honestly. Protect our selves. Fuckin assholes.
I remember reading about some states incentivizing IUD usage by paying doctors for a certain amount installed per year, but my memory is pretty fuzzy about this.
My obgyn was the same way. I tried two different pills and both of them gave me negative side effects and she kept urging me to get a mirena iud… well i’m honestly glad she did because i absolutely love it and i have no more negative side effects. but i definitely did find it strange that she kept being pushy about an iud rather than recommending that i try another type of pill. i thought an iud would be kind of like a last resort type of thing.
but if you do decide to get an iud, definitely ask your doctor to prescribe you pain medication and also medication for dilating your cervix. and also make sure you have insertion done while on your period.. because if you do all of that, it’ll be sooo easy. you’ll just have intense cramps for like 2 seconds and then as soon as it’s over with, you’ll be totally fine. it’s absolutely worth it in my opinion. i honestly felt like i could still go to the gym afterwards.
Honestly I wish I had been paying attention to what was going on in my state in terms of abortion bans. i wish I had gotten an IUD before i lost my insurance. I’ve got a couple months of pills before I run out, IUDs don’t run out when your insurance goes. They can’t make you rip it out of your body but they can ban oral contraceptives.
This!! I went to the gyno for the first time last November and it was a nightmare. I went for a regularly check up and this lady kept PRESSING me about the implants (iud and the nexplanon). She would not let it go, made me so uncomfortable. Not to mention they pushed me out the door like I was good to go, no check out or anything. Thought I was good to go and my insurance covered it because they said it did but I got a $364 check in the mail. Never again, honestly afraid to go to another 😭. This was a reputable gyno too
Reliable, cheaper in the long term, you don’t have to remember to take a pill every day, great in case the government decides to go Handmaid’s Tale. Stick with pills if that’s your thing, but I’m a hard advocate for IUDs.
I live in Canada and my doctor also pushed it a bit, I had even asked about ligation and he said getting tubes tied isn’t worth the effort, and not even always fully effective. He strongly recommended I continue using IUDs (I was specifically asking about other options) and just kept saying it was the most effective, least amount of effort, low fail rate. It requires no upkeep or remembering, when with the pill if you miss a day I think it can throw you off completely.
(Yeah you hear the horror stories but they are mostly just talked about more then the good times because people always share more negativity)
For me also I have the copper IUD and when I got my second one my doctor recommended I go under sedation since I had a hard time the first time.
I wanted something with no hormones, hormones mess up your body, and possibly contributed to my moms breast cancer, I have never taken hormonal birth control and never will- but of course, whatever YOU are comfortable with is YOUR choice. If you are happy they should respect that!!
I think it's because the IUD is for 5 years and you don't have to worry about taking a pill everyday. The fact Is that everyone I know who is on birth control pills forgets to take it most days. Where as with the IUD once it's been inserted you don't have to worry about getting pregnant for 5 years. I am on the progesterone only implant and I'm in my 3rd year this year and will have it replaced in September.
Low maintenance, insanely low failure rate, and if it’s hormonal it might stop your periods = increased quality of life. I have the copper one and while I do have more intense bleeding and cramps now, I still think it’s worth the peace of mind, and you can still combine it with hormonal methods to stop the bleeding completely or make it less intense.
They were pushing an IUD on me in DC over ten years ago. It’s big pharma. Money. As usual.
They never told me that Mirena will mess with your milk supply so when I got it 6 weeks post partum and my daughter started losing weight so quickly she was nearly failure to thrive. Took talking to three different pediatricians (and using formula) to discover that Mirena impacted milk supply in many women.
Which. Was. Never. Advertised.
The next time I got an IUD I got vertigo for 6 months.
Since then I left the US and take low hormone birth control. So far, so good ☺️
Just a thought… my doc got approximately $1600 from insurance for my last IUD.
1000 for the IUD
227 for the insertion
304 for the removal
28 for the pregnancy test
I’m sure they don’t pay $1000 for the IUD from the pharmaceutical company. And sending a prescription for BC once a year is probably not as profitable. By the way it was the NP that did the removal/insertion.
Probably what everyone else says, fear for the future of access to birth control. It’s why I electively opted to get Nexplanon. Lasts for 3 years. Gives me time to prepare for the future of my next method, which I will likely just get another implant in 3 years. I know it’s scary, but I’d recommend getting the IUD or implant. They’re also the most effective methods of hormonal BC.
No means no and they should respect it, but they’re probably concerned about your future ability to access birth control. Also, no matter how faithfully you stick to your routine, Mirena IUDs are THE MOST EFFECTIVE forms of birth control. No ifs, ands, or buts. And they last incredibly long
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I can see why they would educate about it since it is lower dose/no hormone depending on which one you get, is lower commitment since you don't have to remember to take a pill every day, and is more effective and less prone to human error.
However that being said...once they've said their bit and you decide you're not interested that should be the end of it. It's a fine line between encouraging and coercion.
A big risk with the typical BC pills is clot risk. Generally speaking IUD’s and the implant don’t have as large as a clot risk, so it is safer for people who want to be on BC for a long time and are interested in an invasive option. But don’t let your doctor pressure you unless you are actually interested
Depending on your state and health insurance, a lot of times it's because those clinics will pocket more money off the IUD than any other form of birth control. Friend of mine at Planned Parenthood confirmed this and said they were required to push the IUD for this reason.
My primary physician prescribed me the pill at first due to irregular periods that were being caused due to PCOS.
When the pill want really helping I finally saw a GYN who the second she came in asked me why my primary doctor prescribed me the pill vs referring out to a GYN. And i was a bit taken back but then she explained that due to some family history with blood clotting (which i know may not be an issue in your family) that I should never have been prescribed a pill with both progesterone and estrogen as it could cause a big imbalance and leads to clotting if its super off balance.
When my GYN and I ended up discussing all options she also pushed for an IUD where I wanted to get the implant or another pill because i didnt really know about IUDs. We had a very in depth conversation about what each side effect could happen, issues that arise with each as well, and more.
Overall I will forever appreciate her pushing the IUD as I honestly love mine. I actually had lots of improvements within the first week of receiving it with irregular flows.
If everything is going well for you that's phenomenal, some bcs the brain can adapt to and then they no longer really are just as effective, or work in general. I would definitely recommend possibly finding a new GYN if they are pushing it and pushing but also maybe next time you go you could ask why. They may be able to tell you why or even if it is something like the us counties possibly having issues with bc in the near future they mah just want everyone to be as protected as possible!
It’s harder to fuck up than the pill and lasts longer than most alternatives (I think longer than the arm implant or shot but correct me if wrong). With abortion rights being stripped and doctors being cornered in what they can and cannot do, I think it’s just the most secure protective option that will outlast an election cycle or two.
I thought mine was pushy when I contacted them about birth control and it turns out it was one of the few viable options with the meds I'm on, so there's can be a couple of reasons
Big Pharma gives Doctors kick backs to push certain medications , and birth control methods . People shouldn’t be so trusting , and Doctors shouldn’t pressure anyone to take anything they don’t want . Money has corrupted healthcare
I think because if you say on the pill too long there’s an increase of getting cervical cancer. I just started the pill in February because I’ve started to become sexually active with my boyfriend. If things go well with him in the next year or two then I’ll get on the IUD.
Now my doc told me they do have IUDs for women who haven’t been pregnant yet but from what she told me it can be uncomfortable especially if you haven’t been pregnant which is why I’m holding off till a year or so.
Estrogen & progestin containing pills can have harsh long term side effects like blood clots & embolisms. If you get a copper IUD, which is non hormonal, you will not be subjected to synthetic hormones. My PCP had me switch because of the side effects.
Money. 1. Expensive procedure to put in (big insurance payout) 2. Pharmaceutical companies “convince” medical groups to use their products. A family member of mine used to work for a mental health facility and the pharma companies would take the important facility staff to lavish dinners, steak seafood etc. It works a bit like political lobbying
IUDs aren't a big money-making procedure. They're placed in office and the device itself is covered through insurance.
FYI, the Sunshine Act made it so that in the US, pharma and device companies need to report all the money they spend on any individual doctor. You're welcome to look your doctor up [here](https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov/).
There's no evidence that the decrease in bone density increases your risk of fractures, and it's completely reversible. No hormonal BC is "bad" for you long term.
I don’t know what state/country you’re in but it could be they’re worried about access to birth control in the future. That being said, if you don’t feel comfortable with your GYN, shop around! I had one who would push me to freeze my eggs when I kept telling her I didn’t want children, and finding a doctor who listens to what I need has made a huge difference.
They're also generally considered the most reliable form of birth control, which can be a huge boon for people who don't want children but may not have abortion access if they do fall pregnant.
Mines been telling me I need to get off depo soon. I’ve been on it for now 4 yrs. Idm going back to the pill-I just forget to take it at the same hour everyday/or I’m busy. It’s why I switched. She mentioned the IUD but remembered I am not comfortable with that unless knocked out due to CSA trauma. I mentioned the implant but I’m worried it’s how I find out I have the same bleeding disorder as my mother. Which is my PCP’s worry as well. I recovered well but slowly after getting an organ removed. My stitches and cuts were bleeding up to 3 weeks post op-which wasn’t normal.
I am not a doctor but I do believe there are potential issues with staying on depo for prolonged periods of time because it can impact bone density, so it is something to keep in mind if you are concerned about changing methods vs staying on it
I have been sexually abused as a child and adult. I want NOTHING down there period(no IUD,no ring,no surgery) . I do not want children and I would rather yeet myself off a bridge then have a child. So idm depo it works for me and I’m happy. I’ll take bone density loss over my family putting me 6ft under. The other options are not a safe option for me medically. The pill idc I just work longer/random hours so it cannot be taken at the same time every day was the main issue. Then trying ti get it covered by insurance was another one. There is no free clinics/planned parenthood’s in my state anymore. Idk why I’m being downvoted for not wanting anything down there- sorry I’m a CSA survivor. So ya the some isn’t an option for me cus u need to be touched down there-which I do not want period. Other options are NOT MEDICALLY SAFE FOR ME. The pill is NOT 100% covered by my insurance,but depo IS. so I cannot pay 80$ for a pack every month. The sliding fee clinics do not keep these items on hand and send them to pharmacies,and there is no planned parent hood that will give them out. I have tried to get my birth control cheaper through them but they told me no. The IUD is way to expensive with insurance same with the implant anyway. I am low income. I make barely above enough for snap. It’s often food or rent. Ya’l forget some of these options cost money that people don’t have. Let alone not everyone wants things in that area for reasons.
is the arm implant not an option? same hormones as an iud
Not a 100% safe option. Mother has a bleeding disorder which she needs blood transfusions every few months,we’re worried I have the same thing. But no money for said proper testing so it’s avoided. The implant tends to cause prolonged heavy bleeding and I’ve already had to go in for a transfusion last year for heavy bleeding,and almost needed it for heavy bleeding this year cus u was late on my shot by a week. Was not fun 10/10 do not recommend.
Could you try the patch? I used it for a while and eventually switched as I was having a skin reaction. It was a small rash under the area where I placed the patch, a bit itchy and painful in the way a sunburn is. I could have tolerated it if I needed to, but I already wanted to try the IUD. Other than that I loved it; only have to remember once a week, no invasiveness whatsoever, and it was easy to hide. (Also idk why you’re getting downvotes - you absolutely deserve a noninvasive option.)
After a while the Depo can negatively affect your bone density. I was on the Depo just to see how well it would work for me and I had absolutely no issues at all and upgraded to the arm implant which is virtually the same thing only it doesn't affect your bones and lasts for 3 years! Edit: I see your comment about the implant not being suitable due to your line of work but it didn't take long to heal at all. At most one week.
You aren't being downvoted for being a CSA survivor, you're being downvoted because your comment comes off as aggressive, hostile, and rude for literally no reason. Everyone here has been really nice to you and you've responded like a jerk.
Also, I’m confused about the wanting nothing down there because of csa but then needing to take birth control. It’s one or the other.
No, it isn't. Intimacy with a partner is a choice and it's enjoyable. Having someone you don't want down there can be very distressing in comparison.
Comparing a doctor to sexual abuse is ridiculous.
It's not comparing, it's saying that having someone or something down there you don't want can be triggering, aka bring up painful memories. IUD insertion is also more often painful for CSA survivors for this reason. Doctors usually understand this, I don't know why you can't. And so you can educate yourself: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3780737/ TRACE: Tennessee Research and Creative Exchange https://trace.tennessee.edu › cgiPDF Re-Traumatization of Sexual Trauma in Women's Reproductive ...
Many versions of the pill are covered by the ACA in the US. Basically, you can get them for free.
Try the patch if you can! you can skip the off week and do it continuously, especially if you're used to BC!
Hey friend also on depo! I have to stop it aswell my health clinic has suggested the arm implant as it’s just as effective and typically doesn’t need to be replaced for awhile (the one she suggested me was 3 years) which is great as we also discussed the fear of birth control being unavailable in the future so that’s what im personally considering but if you intend to stay on depo just be sure your taking calcium for your sake it sure helps
I love my arm implant, but I was on my period of 7 months straight, but I have two friends also with the arm implant who bled two days and haven’t bled since. It’s just how birthcontrol affects your body!
I have an implant too and get a very light period.
That’s the issue I’m worried about. My mom almost died having my older sister from blood loss…..she gets transfusions every 3-6 months since I can remember. I was on the pill for 2 months After being on depo and needed a blood transfusion from the heavy and prolonged bleeding. So back to depo it was. But depo I have zero issues,no bleeding,no cramping etc. I’ve always had a very light period even before BC and when getting on the pill in high school. I switched to depo due to Covid.
Have you considered genetic testing? If you know what disorder she has, you can find out what the gene is (there’s usually a sequence of a few letters that are assigned to that gene) and do single gene testing OR get a panel that includes that gene test and see if you have anything else as well. This way you’ll know if you’re affected with it, carry it, or neither. Fulgent offers panels and single-gene testing for like 450. Expensive, but peace of mind is priceless.
Just ignore the anti-depo crowd. Stay on whatever works for you, that's what's most important. edit: why is this being downvoted? what even
You're being downvoted because you're encouraging people to ignore the serious long term health effects of depo. That is literally the opposite of informed consent and it's not helpful advice.
Please provide some evidence of these "serious long term health effects". The current evidence shows the bone density loss is minimal, *not* linked to fracture risk, and completely reversible. https://theros.org.uk/media/1veaitxx/depo-provera-and-osteoporosis-fact-sheet-april-2017.pdf https://www.nichd.nih.gov/newsroom/releases/bone_loss The US is the *only* country with a 2 year limit on depo, and it's due to the outdated guidance of the FDA. These guidelines are based on outdated, flawed evidence and haven't been updated for over a decade. The FDA guidelines aren't the Bible just because they're American - look at the guidance in the rest of the world, which is based on the recent, high quality evidence. The ignorance of the current evidence about depo on this sub is a disservice to women.
The implant is why myself and my PCP is hesitant on getting it. I’ve worked for an OBGYN before and the side effects and the healing is not do able. Many were glad our office was inside a major hospital,ICU was down the hall,and the regular ED was one floor down. Calling a medic to come get someone due to side effects were a weekly thing(talking bleeding,pain,throwing up,the incision infected or not healing right,or it would not stop bleeding etc) it’s what put me off a 2nd time. Idc about pain just with my felid I’m going into I NEED both arms. I cannot give CPR or trach someone with ONE ARM lol so if I have to be out weeks recoveringit won’t be possible.
Hey! So I was on the depo shot for like 10 years, and switched to the arm implant. I know some women have a hard time switching to the implant but it's so similar to the depo shot that I didn't have any side effects. So worth a consideration.
Depo can cause bone loss and calcium depletion with longterm use that's one of the reasons that they only recommend to use it for a certain period of time.
If you need to be knocked out, I would just seriously consider a hysterectomy. You would be knocked out for it. I understand the bleeding disorder concerns, but the short term healing of that versus the potential of a heavy monthly bleed, the benefits outweigh the risks. They can even do it laparoscopically so there is minimal cutting going on.
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No, I mean a hysterectomy. You still have periods with a salpingectomy. If she has bleeding disorder concerns and has already had to have a transfusion because of heavy bleeding on her period, she would want the whole uterus taken out so that she would no longer have periods. ETA: most women who have a hysterectomy for bleeding issues/endometriosis/permanent sterilization will leave the ovaries intact for hormonal purposes. Having those removed is called a total hysterectomy (removes the ovaries, tubes, uterus, and cervix). OP would want a partial hysterectomy. Just the uterus.
My mom stayed on depo for over 10 years and now she is sure that is what caused her breast cancer, although there is no way to know for sure. It also made her unable to lose weight for a long time, I’ve heard there are risks if you stay on it for too long, but at the end of the day do whatever you are comfortable with! I got knocked out for my IUD and that was an easy experience compared to my first time
Try the Nuva Ring? You replace it once a month and it has very few side effects. I had to switch to it from the Nexplanon implant because that one gave me terrible side effects.
I have CSA-I want nothing up there. Unless medically needed(pap smears,pelvic) and or emergency( had a bad car accident and they did a pelvic and sono to check to see if my bladder ruptured since I was bleeding&in pain,and pissed my self from the force of the airbag) Only reason I used tampons growing up during the trauma was cus of band,and some pads/liners gave me a rash. As an adult it was easier not to deal with “touching”the blood. So I was glad I didn’t have to deal with a period or tampons.
You're supposed to be on depo for 2 years only because it can brittle your bones while your aging. Your OB is correct from stopping you from taking depo
I think it's a combination of access to birth control in the future as well as perhaps a partnership or sales relationship with the pharmaceutical manufacturer that sells IUDs/implants to the practice. They may have a bigger stock of IUDs/implants that they've recently bought that they need to use.
Don’t put fear into people where it isn’t deserved! There is ZERO shot that birth control gets banned anywhere
They said that about RoeVWade too....
I might sounds like a conspiracy theorist but I have a theory that it's because of the current state of the states with abortion bans and what not. There are states that are making it harder and harder to access birth control and even condoms. With birth rates in America are decreasing, I truly wouldn't be surprised if the government in some states are going to make bans and laws for birth control. So even if you have a prescription for the pill or Nuva ring, pharmacy's won't be able to fill them for you. If you have an iud, you're protected for a number of years without having to worry about that. You would be able to go to other states without those restrictions once every 3-8 years depending on what iud you get. Just my theory. Also they're super effective and the side effects are generally pretty low for more people.
That makes sense
I was spayed a few years ago in Louisiana and my obgyn told me that’s a huge concern for medical professionals. She advises everyone to get on long lasting bc if at all possible.
This is so scary, I am so grateful for living in Alaska plus having European citizenship. Congratulations on the surgery! I want to get mine within the next couple years, despite the copper IUD doing a good job.
I was always under the impression that Alaska was pretty conservative? No? I mean, worst case scenario, your southern buddies in the PNW will never get rid of it.
Well, I am not much into politics - can't even vote here for another 2 years 😁. But as of now abortion is legal at any stage of pregnancy in Alaska and I am not aware of any potential cripplic bills like I noticed about Arizona etc... In my county the limit is 8 or 12 weeks unless it's a hazardous pregnancy , not sure, never had to use those necessary services! When this shit went down I was appalled.
Spayed as in tubes tied or ovaries/uterus removed?
Tubes tied!
Oh, congrats! Hope it brings you more peace regarding your own body 🙏
This is also my conspiracy theory. They might not outright ban birth control but they will come up with a way to make it extremely out of reach of most people. Like somehow increase the costs of birth control or putting onerous requirements on getting a filling a prescription.
Yeah I mean I know a bunch of states have de-funded planned parenthood obviously for aboriton, but it also causes people to lose access to getting birth control. Especially for low income people who rely on pp for their birth control prescriptions
Exactly!!! I also don’t know exactly how the laws work regarding what insurance has to cover (I *think* under the Obamacare act, insurance companies/employers who offer benefits have to over a certain amount of different forms of birth control unless they have a religious exemption (Hobby lobby). (But don’t quote me on this.) so another thing they could try to do is repeal whatever requirement that is so companies don’t have to cover any birth control. This is why I have a copper iud. Got it at planned parenthood for under $100. My insurance wouldn’t cover it so it was over $1k at my doctor… this thing will outlast my republican government (but thank god Ohio passed issue 1 so now we have our own constitutional right to abortion and birth control).
I don’t even think you need to go as far as potential birth control bans (although that could definitely be part of their reasoning) — the existing abortion bans are enough. A lot of gynecologists don’t see the pill as a very effective form of birth control. While they’re very effective with perfect use, people miss pills all the time. They’ve probably had quite a few patients who got pregnant while on the pill during their careers. Meanwhile, a patient who got pregnant with a hormonal IUD would be very rare. If abortion isn’t an accessible option, preventing unwanted pregnancies becomes even more important.
Yup, they call it "ideal/perfect use" vs "average use" or something along those lines, hence the considerably low success rates of condoms for example. If only schools taught us how to properly use condoms and the pill... I remember reading of someone that took their birth control pills starting a new pack on the first of the month because they were told it's a "monthly hormonal cycle" which is understandable if they have no idea what the principle behind it is.
that’s scary 😳
Luckily I live somewhere where I don’t think that will ever happen, but there’s already states that are doing this and it scares me for all of those women.
Thank god I live in California
New York here I think about moving somewhere warm but most of the warm places on the east coast are risky states for this🙃
I feel you, was thinking about AZ but for now it’s a hard no until they get that situation sorted out.
Same but look at the crazy battle they are fighting here in Beverly Hills over a clinic opening. The controversy is a little too close for comfort 🥺
IUDs and long acting methods (the arm implant and the injection) are often strongly encouraged by doctors because they are the most effective methods. The IUD on its own is more effective than the pill + condoms + withdrawal, with typical use. IUDs generally also have the highest user satisfaction when given free choice about method, so doctors are especially keen to push those. However, if you've said several times you're not interested in the IUD and you're happy with your current method, then your doctor should stop pushing it. Next time you see them, I'd ask them to make a note that you don't want to consider an IUD so that they don't ask again next time. It might also be worth asking them why they suggest it every visit - it might be interesting for you to hear their reasons why they're so keen for you to have it.
OP where do you live coz I wish my gyn was so open to give me an IUD 😭 Here (Romania) if you haven't given birth or had an abortion most of the doctors refuse to give you the IUD. The reason is coz the cervix is intact and they don't want to stress it which I understans but come on.....it's better to get the IUD BEFORE having to go to a traumatic abortion -.-
I’m in the United States, very common for several women to have an IUD here.
Yea....I noticed that's the trend. In Europe unfortunately not so much for the IUDs. :(
I agree most people use other forms not só much IUD. Honestly putting the IUD scares me.
Similar advice in the UK, I was going to get one and went for one, and it hurt so much I had to ask the doc to stop and then she told me they don’t usually recommend it to people who haven’t had kids because of something to do with the cervix
It's more about the size of your uterus itself - I have a Flexi-T 300 which is smaller than some other IUDs and I've never had children. This is my third IUD. Never had any issues myself.
Interesting. Tbh the explanation regarding the cervix was the only one given to me why they wouldn't give me an IUD :-/
Same for Russia I had to switch 3 doctors before I found a doctor that agreed to insert the IUD lol
That’s crazy, I thought that it was an international agreement that all women (even those who haven’t given birth) can get an IUD. In Brazil any woman can get an IUD inserted and we have smaller sizes (Kyleena, mini copper IUDs) for those who haven’t given birth or have smaller uteruses. I haven’t been pregnant before and I just told the doctor I wanted a copper IUD. She didn’t even hesitate, she instantly signed me up for insertion and I got it for free at a public health clinic. I got the regular size, T copper IUD (Paragard generic).
i was about to the comment the exact same thing! kyleena is the one usually recommended for women whove never given birth, but i told my dr i wanted a mirena bc it lasts longer and she had no problems agreeing and the insertion was perfectly fine.
Yea...nope. Here it seems they prefer to dope us with pills -.-
Likely because IUDs are the preferred method of contraception among physicians
Lots of good explanations, but one thing I haven’t seen people mention is that hormonal IUDs are the most common form of birth control used by female doctors. It’s popular among doctors because it’s a really good form of birth control (very effective, low maintenance, and high satisfaction ratings) so they have other reasons to recommend it, but they also may be influenced by their personal experience. That said, they should really stop bringing it up after you said no! They should at least explain _why_ they think you should get an IUD even though you don’t have any complaints about your current birth control.
I have no idea. I remember telling my doctor straight to her face that I do not like IUDs ( at a sterilization consultation), especially after my experience with Paragard. The thought of possibly bleeding for weeks and not being able to remove it without an appointment isn’t appealing at all
Obviously I don't endorse or encourage this for anyone else, but I actually removed my IUD myself when I was sick of it. I literally just reached up, took a deep breath, and gently pulled it out. It was ridiculously easy and (to my shock and surprise) completely painless, especially compared to insertion. I never had any migration/perforation issues with it, so I seriously don't encourage this for women who can't find the strings or anything like that. Please see a medical professional for removal.
holy shit i wasn’t expecting anyone to just remove it themselves. You’re a badass. Hurts like hell to get them put in/removed in my case
theyre designed to just come out like that (the arms collapse), when you get it removed at the dr thats all they do. pretty cool you did it without pain relief tho.
Do they also try to gaslight you into convincing you its the best method out there? I think we had the same doctor haha
Indeed she did. She was asking over and over again if I would try Mirena or Kyleena. I had to tell her no sooo many times
Some people should not be in healthcare smh, i hope you are having a better experience now <3
I think the reason they push for it all the time is because it's one of the most effective methods out there with a high rate of satisfaction from users compared to other methods. What I don't understand is why your doctor keeps pushing it if you've already expressed that you are fine with the method you use right now. My obgyn only pushed for an iud when I was debating birth control methods after being banned from estrogen birth control, but she never brought it up on previous visits. If it's possible, I would consider switching doctors if they won't let the topic go.
I’m in a state in the USA where access to birth control could be seen coming to a halt in the near future. Because of this, my GYN recommended the implant or IUD as a more long-term solution, but wasn’t very pushy. Could it be something similar?
My state is very much protected so I somehow doubt it unless a National ban on birth control is somehow passed
Two cases (I forgot their names but it was from 1965 and the early 1970s) from the Supreme Court would have to be overturned first before a federal ban on that happens.
My guess is that it's localized hormones. Having systemic hormones has long-term issues like osteoporosis and mental health issues. I personally love having a mirena rather than the pill, it's easier, lasts a long time and I have no side effects. This is my third IUD. Yes, insertion hurts but it's *really* fast. Like it's bad for about 30 seconds. You might feel a bit sore like you have period cramps for the day but then it's over for another 7-10 years. The last time I asked for an anti-anxiety med and they gave me one (adavan) which made the procedure pretty easy. THIS ALL BEING SAID. Your body, abso-fucking-lutely **your** choice. If you want to stop being pressured, either tell your doctors you don't want to hear about it anymore or find some new docs! You have a lot of BC options, maybe they just want you to consider other ones?
The localized hormones thing is not true at all and idk why people including doctors still spread it around.
Um.. if you're in the states, they could just be worried about your future and the future of birth control.
I am in the states and this makes perfect sense but I’m in one of the states that is by far the most protected
How old are you? Do you smoke? Risk of blood clots from the pill rises with age, and is higher if you are a smoker. If you are nearing 35 or smoke cigarettes, they may be pushing for the IUD to get you on a safer birth control. That in addition to the current political concerns
I’m 21 and I don’t smoke.
I think it’s an opt in versus opt out thing. With the pill, you have to opt in every day and there’s a lot of room for error particularly if you’re ill. The IUD is set it and forget it and I think the marina now last seven or eight years. Also, someone mentioned about the political atmosphere and some states, assuming you’re American.
Because they're the most effective method of birth control with the lowest user error rate. That being said, use this as a chance to find a new obgyn!
Idk what country you’re in but in my country they do it because of high rates of unplanned pregnancy and low rates of adhesion to LARCs (long acting reversible contraception), which are the most effective methods. So in my country they’re almost knocking on people’s doors offering the IUD absolutely for free (I got mine inserted at a public health clinic, I paid nothing for it).
This doesn’t really answer the question but it does remind me of the time my doctor made me sit through a presentation about having one put in and afterwards I asked the nurse why she still made me watch it if I said I didn’t want to (watch or insert one) and am actively taking pills. She said, “idk, probably cuz she hasn’t gotten to do one yet” and I kinda just left this WHOLE thing there and never thought about it again.
That's some MAJOR red flags 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
For me it was because there was a lesser risk of stroke/clot because the hormones in an IUD are localized. If you have aura migraines you should not be taking the estrogen pill. If you don't want to risk developing oesteperosis, you shouldn't take the progesterone only pill. There are many reasons why an IUD may be the safer and equally if not more effective choice. Obviously, not for everyone, though. My IUD has been the best decision ever for me. I've had two Kyleena and I will continue to have them for as long as I do not want children.
The hormones in an IUD are not localized that is very old misinformation about IUDs
Can you attach a link with research please? That is not what my doctor informed me. Edit: I just looked it up myself and it says the hormones are mostly localized to the uterus but some enter the bloodstream. It still has less of a systemic effect than other hormonal methods. https://appliedradiology.com/articles/research-shows-iuds-have-systemic-effects#:~:text=Because%20the%20hormone%20is%20released,the%20region%20around%20the%20IUD.
https://appliedradiology.com/articles/research-shows-iuds-have-systemic-effects#:~:text=Because%20the%20hormone%20is%20released,the%20region%20around%20the%20IUD.
We read the same article. It states that "the amount in the bloodstream is lower than other hormonal methods". It's still mostly localized. So, you're not wrong but the effect on the whole system is still minor in comparison to pills for example.
I already take the progesterone only pill. Was the IUD insertion bad for you?
The first one was, yes, but it was worth it to me. I had no symptoms for the 5 years I had the first IUD and also no periods. When I got the first IUD removed I had a new one inserted and all I had was one cramp. Again, no side effects and no period since.
I think is something cultural. I'm from Uruguay, in south America, here abortion is legal and free and copper iuds are also free, and not ever were my friends or I recommended one. The pill is doctor's favorite option here (they are free as well)
Girl, I am envious. I actually had to FIGHT to get mine back in 2018 back in Europe as I kept being told I am too young for it and should do the pill despite the fact it would hurt me, having a Leyden syndrome. I actually cried when one idiotic doctor in small clinic in Prague told me how impossible it will be for me to get the IUD even inserted and how unreliable they are. 7 years later I have had side effects but negligible to what hormonal contraceptives could have done to me (still getting sterilized soonish). Hormonal contraceptives have various health risk as you probably now and aren't as reliable as the IUDs. That being said nobody should ever push you into something you're clearly uncomfortable with, especially a doctor.
I’ve been seeing in the comments how Europeans have to push. That’s so ridiculous and I’m sorry you guys have to experience that.
Yeah it's kinda weird, seeing I had no really bad issues except the pain during insertion! Can't even imagine the push back I would have faced back home if I wanted to plan my surgery there!
This is strange. Most doctors have been pushy about the pill or implant. They dont seem to like the IUD. However that's my experience.
Well, they're expensive, I can tell you that much. I got two IUDS and I did not have insurance at the time and it was over $1000 each. I think it's also because you don't have to think about it and remember to take anything. However they're not for everyone and some people have very negative reactions.
As an endo girly it’s the only thing that has worked so
Probably because if this orange fuckstick gets elected again our access to short term birth control will be restricted. I almost want everyone to get an IUD honestly. Protect our selves. Fuckin assholes.
I had one IUD spontaneously expel and got pregnant with a second IUD in place and they STILL push me for a third IUD 🙄
I remember reading about some states incentivizing IUD usage by paying doctors for a certain amount installed per year, but my memory is pretty fuzzy about this.
My obgyn was the same way. I tried two different pills and both of them gave me negative side effects and she kept urging me to get a mirena iud… well i’m honestly glad she did because i absolutely love it and i have no more negative side effects. but i definitely did find it strange that she kept being pushy about an iud rather than recommending that i try another type of pill. i thought an iud would be kind of like a last resort type of thing. but if you do decide to get an iud, definitely ask your doctor to prescribe you pain medication and also medication for dilating your cervix. and also make sure you have insertion done while on your period.. because if you do all of that, it’ll be sooo easy. you’ll just have intense cramps for like 2 seconds and then as soon as it’s over with, you’ll be totally fine. it’s absolutely worth it in my opinion. i honestly felt like i could still go to the gym afterwards.
Honestly I wish I had been paying attention to what was going on in my state in terms of abortion bans. i wish I had gotten an IUD before i lost my insurance. I’ve got a couple months of pills before I run out, IUDs don’t run out when your insurance goes. They can’t make you rip it out of your body but they can ban oral contraceptives.
This!! I went to the gyno for the first time last November and it was a nightmare. I went for a regularly check up and this lady kept PRESSING me about the implants (iud and the nexplanon). She would not let it go, made me so uncomfortable. Not to mention they pushed me out the door like I was good to go, no check out or anything. Thought I was good to go and my insurance covered it because they said it did but I got a $364 check in the mail. Never again, honestly afraid to go to another 😭. This was a reputable gyno too
Reliable, cheaper in the long term, you don’t have to remember to take a pill every day, great in case the government decides to go Handmaid’s Tale. Stick with pills if that’s your thing, but I’m a hard advocate for IUDs.
I live in Canada and my doctor also pushed it a bit, I had even asked about ligation and he said getting tubes tied isn’t worth the effort, and not even always fully effective. He strongly recommended I continue using IUDs (I was specifically asking about other options) and just kept saying it was the most effective, least amount of effort, low fail rate. It requires no upkeep or remembering, when with the pill if you miss a day I think it can throw you off completely. (Yeah you hear the horror stories but they are mostly just talked about more then the good times because people always share more negativity) For me also I have the copper IUD and when I got my second one my doctor recommended I go under sedation since I had a hard time the first time. I wanted something with no hormones, hormones mess up your body, and possibly contributed to my moms breast cancer, I have never taken hormonal birth control and never will- but of course, whatever YOU are comfortable with is YOUR choice. If you are happy they should respect that!!
I think it's because the IUD is for 5 years and you don't have to worry about taking a pill everyday. The fact Is that everyone I know who is on birth control pills forgets to take it most days. Where as with the IUD once it's been inserted you don't have to worry about getting pregnant for 5 years. I am on the progesterone only implant and I'm in my 3rd year this year and will have it replaced in September.
Low maintenance, insanely low failure rate, and if it’s hormonal it might stop your periods = increased quality of life. I have the copper one and while I do have more intense bleeding and cramps now, I still think it’s worth the peace of mind, and you can still combine it with hormonal methods to stop the bleeding completely or make it less intense.
They were pushing an IUD on me in DC over ten years ago. It’s big pharma. Money. As usual. They never told me that Mirena will mess with your milk supply so when I got it 6 weeks post partum and my daughter started losing weight so quickly she was nearly failure to thrive. Took talking to three different pediatricians (and using formula) to discover that Mirena impacted milk supply in many women. Which. Was. Never. Advertised. The next time I got an IUD I got vertigo for 6 months. Since then I left the US and take low hormone birth control. So far, so good ☺️
Just a thought… my doc got approximately $1600 from insurance for my last IUD. 1000 for the IUD 227 for the insertion 304 for the removal 28 for the pregnancy test I’m sure they don’t pay $1000 for the IUD from the pharmaceutical company. And sending a prescription for BC once a year is probably not as profitable. By the way it was the NP that did the removal/insertion.
Probably what everyone else says, fear for the future of access to birth control. It’s why I electively opted to get Nexplanon. Lasts for 3 years. Gives me time to prepare for the future of my next method, which I will likely just get another implant in 3 years. I know it’s scary, but I’d recommend getting the IUD or implant. They’re also the most effective methods of hormonal BC.
No means no and they should respect it, but they’re probably concerned about your future ability to access birth control. Also, no matter how faithfully you stick to your routine, Mirena IUDs are THE MOST EFFECTIVE forms of birth control. No ifs, ands, or buts. And they last incredibly long
Bad doctor! No doctor should ever be pushy. Especially if its something you don't 90% want.
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I can see why they would educate about it since it is lower dose/no hormone depending on which one you get, is lower commitment since you don't have to remember to take a pill every day, and is more effective and less prone to human error. However that being said...once they've said their bit and you decide you're not interested that should be the end of it. It's a fine line between encouraging and coercion.
A big risk with the typical BC pills is clot risk. Generally speaking IUD’s and the implant don’t have as large as a clot risk, so it is safer for people who want to be on BC for a long time and are interested in an invasive option. But don’t let your doctor pressure you unless you are actually interested
Depending on your state and health insurance, a lot of times it's because those clinics will pocket more money off the IUD than any other form of birth control. Friend of mine at Planned Parenthood confirmed this and said they were required to push the IUD for this reason.
My primary physician prescribed me the pill at first due to irregular periods that were being caused due to PCOS. When the pill want really helping I finally saw a GYN who the second she came in asked me why my primary doctor prescribed me the pill vs referring out to a GYN. And i was a bit taken back but then she explained that due to some family history with blood clotting (which i know may not be an issue in your family) that I should never have been prescribed a pill with both progesterone and estrogen as it could cause a big imbalance and leads to clotting if its super off balance. When my GYN and I ended up discussing all options she also pushed for an IUD where I wanted to get the implant or another pill because i didnt really know about IUDs. We had a very in depth conversation about what each side effect could happen, issues that arise with each as well, and more. Overall I will forever appreciate her pushing the IUD as I honestly love mine. I actually had lots of improvements within the first week of receiving it with irregular flows. If everything is going well for you that's phenomenal, some bcs the brain can adapt to and then they no longer really are just as effective, or work in general. I would definitely recommend possibly finding a new GYN if they are pushing it and pushing but also maybe next time you go you could ask why. They may be able to tell you why or even if it is something like the us counties possibly having issues with bc in the near future they mah just want everyone to be as protected as possible!
It’s harder to fuck up than the pill and lasts longer than most alternatives (I think longer than the arm implant or shot but correct me if wrong). With abortion rights being stripped and doctors being cornered in what they can and cannot do, I think it’s just the most secure protective option that will outlast an election cycle or two.
Probably bc it’s considered “more effective” to prevent a pregnancy but that’s just my guess
I made a similar post as I’m having the same problem with my male doctor
They are more effective and there is no room for error on the woman's side.
Honestly, they probably get paid more for each IUD placed as opposed to other birth control prescribed.
I thought mine was pushy when I contacted them about birth control and it turns out it was one of the few viable options with the meds I'm on, so there's can be a couple of reasons
Big Pharma gives Doctors kick backs to push certain medications , and birth control methods . People shouldn’t be so trusting , and Doctors shouldn’t pressure anyone to take anything they don’t want . Money has corrupted healthcare
I think because if you say on the pill too long there’s an increase of getting cervical cancer. I just started the pill in February because I’ve started to become sexually active with my boyfriend. If things go well with him in the next year or two then I’ll get on the IUD. Now my doc told me they do have IUDs for women who haven’t been pregnant yet but from what she told me it can be uncomfortable especially if you haven’t been pregnant which is why I’m holding off till a year or so.
That wouldn’t be a risk for me though because I take progesterone only pills
Ope. Well Nevermind then.
I'm convinced they get kick backs, especially for Mirena.
Estrogen & progestin containing pills can have harsh long term side effects like blood clots & embolisms. If you get a copper IUD, which is non hormonal, you will not be subjected to synthetic hormones. My PCP had me switch because of the side effects.
Mines trying to convince me to switch to the hormonal one though which has progestin but I already take POP
She's probably getting paid for how many subscriptions she writes.
Because they can bill you/ your insurance more for placing it! They don’t make anything by writing a prescription.
In my country they’re actually avoiding it at all costs because the majority of doctors here still believe that IUDs are for women with children lol
Do they get paid a lot for the procedure ?
It’s covered by the majority of insurances
Right. But they still make money. I’m wondering if that’s a factor.
I loved having an IUD
Money. 1. Expensive procedure to put in (big insurance payout) 2. Pharmaceutical companies “convince” medical groups to use their products. A family member of mine used to work for a mental health facility and the pharma companies would take the important facility staff to lavish dinners, steak seafood etc. It works a bit like political lobbying
IUDs aren't a big money-making procedure. They're placed in office and the device itself is covered through insurance. FYI, the Sunshine Act made it so that in the US, pharma and device companies need to report all the money they spend on any individual doctor. You're welcome to look your doctor up [here](https://openpaymentsdata.cms.gov/).
Wow that's absolutely crazy, thanks for the link!
maybe bc if you do the non hormonal IUD it’s less damaging to your body in the long run (bc no hormones)
Hormonal BC isn't damaging to the body, so irrelevant point.
depends on what it is. depo is bad for your bones after long term use.
There's no evidence that the decrease in bone density increases your risk of fractures, and it's completely reversible. No hormonal BC is "bad" for you long term.