Birth Control Forum - Risks of Using an IUD Before Pregnancy

Womens Health > Birth Control Forum > Risks of Using an IUD Before Pregnancy

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Q: Risks of Using an IUD Before Pregnancy

asked by: DoctorQuestion on February 8th, 2006

My girlfriend (of 2.5 years) and I are trying to go back onto a birth control pill again after a previous failed attempt. We are experiencing many of the same problems. She is currently taking Yasmine and has previously tried another low dose pill whose name escapes me. Our primary problem is that she has become quite emotionally unstable. Normally she is solid as a rock when it comes to upsetting her, but lately she has missed work because she cant stop crying. Our secondary problem is that her libido is ZERO. Birth control is pointless if just becomes de-facto abstinence. We would like to pursue non-hormonal options, but the IUD is the only option with an appealing efficacy rate. My question is this, should/can she get a copper IUD without having had a child? Why is this a factor?

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on February 22nd, 2006

Birth Control Answer A410

Slight depression can be a side effect of hormonal contraception (pills). Contraceptive pills do not usually cause loss of the libido (frigidity). Using condoms is also a very efficient method for contraception. IUD (Inter-Uterine Device) is very effective contraceptive method but it’s not recommended for women that haven’t delivered yet. That is because women who use IUD are under greater risk for genital infections than women who use other contraceptive methods. IUD permits easier spreading of infection from the vagina in to the uterus, causing possible sterility. This statement refers only to women who have many sexual partners. Women who have a monogamous relationship can use the IUD as a contraceptive method.

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