Expert: Diane Cheryl - 1/10/2007

Question
My 18yr old daughter has had severe and violent mood swings when trying two different bc pills (the last one was yasmin..not sure of the first attempt). Our Dr. has scheduled her for the Merina IUD insert on Friday. My question is..with her reaction to the hormones in the bc pills, is insertion of a hormonal IUD really a good choice for her? I am reading so much negative feedback on the web from women who have tried this method that I am very nervous for her. The no hormone, copper IUD is not an option for her as her periods are already very severe and the Dr says that would make them worse. His opinion is that since the hormones are local to the cervix only and not directly into the blood stream that she should not have the same reaction. I would prefer to see her try the patch or just about anything else before having this device inserted. The side effects seem to be very severe for so many women. What is your opinion on this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Tauri, Can you email me back? I can't find your email address. Thanks. I enjoyed your last email.
Diane Cheryl
DCHERYL51@yahoo.com

Hello,
Did you ever email me? I'd love to hear from you.
Diane Cheryl
DCHERYL51@yahoo.com

Hi Tauri,
Thanks for your question. You are right to be concerned about your daughter. I am not a medical professional but have done my own research as you have and feel that I am knowledgeable. I would not recommend the IUD or any other hormonal birth control method. Does she really need to be on birth control at all? There are alternatives such as Natural Family Planning and condoms. Abstinence is also a viable option if she is not married. Please email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com
My opinion would be to cancel that appointment and do some more thinking, soul-searching and research. Please email me.
Diane Cheryl
DCHERYL51@yahoo.com