birth control
"After reading some of the scary reviews in this forum I almost talked myself out of getting the ParaGard. I think that people are more likely to post if they've had a bad experience so I wanted to add my own story to the mix. I've had a ParaGard for about a month now, and opted for ParaGard over birth control pills or a hormonal IUD because I liked the idea of a hormone free option. Previously I'd been on birth control pills for several years, and although my experience with the pill was generally positive it took my body awhile to regulate after I discontinued use the first time. 

After doing some research I decided to have the ParaGard inserted at Planned Parenthood as opposed to my regular OBGYN because the providers there insert dozens of these a day and have more experience with them. I've never had a baby and the insertion was uncomfortable but bearable. It basically felt like a very intense cramp, but was over in a few minutes. I'm sure that it helps to have an experienced provider Following the insertion I felt like I had mild to moderate menstrual cramps, but was able to return to work for the rest of the afternoon with minimal discomfort. 

In the week following the insertion you will need to wear panty liners because you leak a clearish brownish fluid which feels a bit strange. The feeling freaked me out at first but it went away pretty quickly and stopped altogether within a week. In the weeks that followed I had intermittent menstrual cramps as my body adjusted. My biggest fear was that my cramps during my period would be unbearable (they are usually very bad), but I was happy to find out that they weren't any worse than usual although my period was heavier.

If you are looking for a hormone free option I'd recommend ParaGard. The key is just knowing what to expect early on."