The non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD)--marketed under the brand name ParaGard in the United States--is a type of birth control that is inserted directly into a woman's uterus to prevent pregnancy. This method of contraception releases copper, which causes the uterus to become inhospitable to sperm, and can continuously work effectively for up to 10 years. Women using the non-hormonal IUD may experience certain side effects during treatment that they should discuss with a gynecologist prior to having the IUD placed.
Menstrual Cycle Changes
The most common side effects associated with the non-hormonal IUD are menstrual cycle changes. Women using this method of birth control may experience heavier and longer menstrual periods, accompanied by mild to severe abdominal cramping and pain, explains the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). During the first few months following non-hormonal IUD insertion, certain women can experience irregular vaginal bleeding in between menstrual periods, a side effect also known as spotting. In clinical trials for the non-hormonal IUD, approximately 12 percent of women chose to have the IUD removed due to side effects of pain or vaginal bleeding, reports the FDA. Though many women no longer experience these menstrual cycle changes after one year of non-hormonal IUD use, certain women may continue to experience discomfort. Women should report severe abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding to a doctor immediately as these side effects can indicate other medical conditions or IUD-related complications.
Backache
While using the non-hormonal IUD, certain women can experience persistent sensations of pain within the lower back as a side effect. Backache symptoms can become uncomfortable and may occur in conjunction with abdominal discomfort or pain. Using an over-the-counter analgesic medication, such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, may help alleviate these side effects in certain women.
Vaginitis
Use of the non-hormonal IUD may increase a woman's risk of developing vaginal infections that can cause vaginal inflammation (vaginitis). Recurrent vaginal infections can become uncomfortable and may lead to the development of a severe condition called pelvic inflammatory disease. Women who develop symptoms of a vaginal infection, such as vaginal irritation or abnormal discharge, while using the non-hormonal IUD should contact a gynecologist immediately for further evaluation and treatment. Recurrent or untreated vaginal infections can make it difficult for a woman to become pregnant (infertility) after removal of the non-hormonal IUD.
Expulsion
After the non-hormonal IUD is placed within the uterus, certain women may unknowingly expel the IUD from the body, warns the FDA. If this occurs, a sexually-active woman proves at risk of becoming pregnant unless she selects an alternate birth control method. Following IUD insertion, a doctor will explain how to check to ensure that the IUD is still placed correctly within the uterus. A woman who expels an IUD should contact her doctor immediately to have another IUD inserted or to select another method of birth control.
