I'm 35, and had the Paragard IUD for 13 months. I chose Paragard because I had spent 15+ years struggling with the negative side effects of hormonal birth control, so I thought this would be a good option for me. I could not have been more wrong!

Before the IUD, I was happy, healthy, fit, and trim. Since having the IUD inserted,(in addition to the insane cramps and heavy 10-day periods that are "normal" with the IUD) I have gained over 20 pounds, have developed anxiety attack ... s, feel lethargic and depressed, lost my sex drive, and have been diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I don't drink alcohol or smoke, my diet is healthy, and I exercise a lot (yoga, running, spinning, pilates - 5-6 days per week). I literally could not lose a single pound with the IUD - no matter what I did, I just kept gaining. I am now on medication for hypothyroidism, and Wellbutrin for my other symptoms, but nothing has helped.

I just had the IUD removed yesterday, and I know it sounds crazy, but I am already starting to feel better! My doctor told me that my symptoms and health problems were in NO WAY related to the IUD, and tried to convince me to keep it in. Ladies - please do NOT let your doctor do this to you. YOU know what's best for your body, not the capitalistic, money-driven American healthcare system. There are thousands of women that are experiencing these symptoms after IUD insertion, but no one is telling us about them! The corporations & doctors continue to deny that the side effects exist, and we continue to be sick and confused.

I am now starting the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM). It is an all-natural way to avoid pregnancy (and it is NOT the "Rhythm Method" of our mother's generation). I think it's ridiculous that all females are not taught about this method as soon as puberty hits. It should be part of sex ed classes. All women should be aware of their natural cycles and fertility signs. Relying on expensive drugs, hormones, and invasive devices are not the only options available to us for birth control. I wish I had known about FAM years ago - I could have saved myself a lot of misery. But most doctors know almost nothing about FAM - it's not taught in med school because it doesn't make anyone any money (it's free for life!). high slit dress