I am terrified of getting pregnant. Is the IUD a good method of contraception?

[Lise-Eva]

Up until now my method of contraception has been abstinence, but things are getting serious and I might need contraception in the (distant) future.

I am absolutely terrified of getting pregnant. I will obviously use condoms until both my partner and I have been tested, but I don’t think condoms are so great when it comes to preventing pregnancy.

I am thinking about getting the copper IUD. Are there any ladies (or men with female partners) who have experience with the (copper) IUD?

[Tamera952]

You should be (terrified I mean about getting pregnant unexpectedly) … it can really put a wrench into your plans obviously.

The IUD is indeed very effective, but it’s not failsafe. It’s something you kinda have to fret over, as it can slip or move, & requires a doctor visit to install &/or adjust - so in my opinion, that’s a bit too much trouble for me.

Regular birth control works, but again you have to be on top of it, & always remember to take it, etc.
A more private option would be those arm implants (they call it Nexplanon here in the US) but there’s many various makers of them, they’re the size of a small matchstick inserted under the skin of the arm, & they’re like 99.9% effective, they last for like 3-5 years, plus a bunch of other benefits. But It’s a more discreet option, & doesn’t require doctors digging around down there (so to speak).
At the end of the day, good ‘ol condoms work very well when used properly.

You’re a smart girl, I already know that, & so I trust you’re not the type of person that will be surprised by my saying that you obviously will be the responsible party, & the only one in charge of your own birth control (whatever form that takes) & not rely on the guy at all. There’s no need to get his input in other words. LoL

[Hannahm67]

IUDs are the most effective form of birth control outside of condoms by far. But while it is rare some women can have issues with them and need to get them removed. I have had mine since I was 16 and my mother found out I was sexually active. She made me get one so she didn't have to worry about me missing a pill. Honestly, it was probably a mistake on her part since at that age I became very reckless about condom use without the worry of getting pregnant. But I have had it for 6 years now and have been cummed in who knows how many times and have never got pregnant so if you worry about that don't.

[integrale77]

My girlfriend has the copper coil been together a year and no accidents.
As there are no hormones involved it's not going to mess with how you feel.

I believe one benefit if you want to get pregnant if you have it removed your good to go straight away.

[NamerOfStars]

Never used one, so I don't know. But these sound like questions you should be bringing up to your doctor- both how well each works and which can be used together. Better multiple chances to stop than just one, no?

[purplepoppy]

Condoms are reliable if they're used properly. Your best bet is to have a sit down chat with your doctor about what contraception is best for you personally. If your still scared then go double, condom and other.

[SnakeBoop]

Condoms are like 98%effective for stopping pregnancy... which is like the highest number for effective birth control.

[SnakeBoop]

Nevermind I did a Google, iud is the highest. Copper is the one without hormones so that sounds like a plus.

[Kabluie]

Yeah my partner has Mirena IUD, she was on the pill since she was a teenager so switching to another hormonal was natural. The copper is another great option because it's hormone-free and lasts longer.

[Anonymous]

Bc pill is better, if you don’t ever want kids then getting tubes tied is another option, too many issues with iud