![copper iud copper iud](https://c8.alamy.com/comp/DF8AN4/iud-DF8AN4.jpg)
![copper iud copper iud](https://res.cloudinary.com/jerrick/image/upload/c_scale,q_auto/l3vvv9e8ikss467slboz.jpg)
The effect was more pronounced after insertion and took about a year to calm down. Still, of all the side effects of the available birth controls – higher rates of failure, giving me depression, risking elective surgery and anesthesia/antibiotics, being irreversible – I have decided this is the trade off I’ll take. While this has improved with time, just like the heavy periods lightened up (though it took a big longer than the 3 months I initially reported) it has remained a point of disgruntlement. Okay, I admit this is a side effect I left out of my original “Ask Me About My IUD” post, because it was a symptom I hadn’t expected and nobody else seemed to be reporting: After insertion of the IUD, there was a dampening of my sex drive and it is harder to orgasm. Of all the forms of birth control I have tried (daily hormonal pill, condom, celibacy, withdrawal) I definitely like it the best for ease and peace of mind.
![copper iud copper iud](https://cdn-prod.medicalnewstoday.com/content/images/articles/323/323230/copper-and-hormonal-iuds.jpg)
Also, spontaneous sex without having to remember to bring or take a break to put on a condom is most excellent. I’m not pregnant!! And I don’t have to worry about being pregnant!! I’m also not depressed from hormonal birth control!! As a naturally anxious person who feels very strongly about avoiding unintended pregnancy, the relief and peace of mind is absolutely luxurious. Reviews where the item has been tried and tested for years are the ones I like to read, especially on something long lived.
#Copper iud update
I figured it was time for an update from this post written a few months after I had the IUD inserted. I’ve now had my copper IUD for six years, which is over half its ten year lifespan.