Forgettable Birth Control

First let us discuss what I mean when I say forgettable birth control. These are long-acting, reversible contraception methods like an IUD or an implant. To be effective, oral contraceptives must be taken daily and at the same time every day. If you are anything like me, remembering to take your pill at the same time everyday might be difficult. Over the long term long-acting, reversible methods are 20 times more effective than birth control pills, the patch, or the ring according to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

I now use a method that I don’t have to think about. I have the Paraguard IUD because I liked the idea of not using hormones. The Paraguard uses copper to prevent fertilization. Common side effects are painful, heavy, longer periods with bleeding between periods. The official Paraguard pamphlet says this will usually decrease after 2-3 months, but don’t be surprised if it takes longer to resolve. The Paraguard is good for 10 years.

The insertion of these forgettable methods can cause some pain and discomfort. I recommend taking an over the counter pain reliever about an hour before you come in. Be prepared to feel some pain but try to relax and maybe squeeze someone’s hand for a minute. It will be over in seconds.

Most insurances will cover an IUD 100% without any cost to the patient. You do not have to have had children to get an IUD. Your provider can help you decide if one of these methods may work best for you. You can read about possible risks and other information at
http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Long-Acting-Reversible-Contraception-LARC-IUD-and-Implant.

Method	Insertion Site	Years approved for use	Mechanism of Action	Side Effects
Paraguard (Copper)	Uterus	10	Prevents fertilization	Painful, heavy, long periods and irregular bleeding usually resolves after a year
Mirena (Progestin)	Uterus	5	Prevents ovulation/ implantation	Spotting and irregular bleeding in the first 3-6 months
Skyla (Progestin)	Uterus	3	Prevents ovulation/ implantation	Spotting and irregular bleeding in the first 3-6 months
Nexplanon (Progestin)	Arm	3	Prevents ovulation/ implantation	Spotting and irregular bleeding in the first 3-6 months