Expert: Ramona Quilter - 9/15/2006

Question
I have an appointment next month to have the merena put in. I am really unsure if I want the procedure done.  I have had PID in the past. No STD's...ever.  My doctor said it would be fine.  Is it going to hurt?  I have been on the Depo shot for 3 years. I have tried pills and had a daughter while on them. I am allergic to the patch.  I need help deciding. My husband and i want another child. I am 27 and I don't want to wait much longer to have another child.  Thank you

Answer
All artificial birth control methods have side effects and problems associated with them.  You have to choose if they are worth the inconvenience, pain and long term effects that may result.  If you want another child, why are you going to have the merena inserted?  I imagine there is some pain associated with that insertion, I don't know that for a fact, however.

As you have also found out, no birth control is 100% effective.  For all the problems you have had with artificial birth control I would suggest you try Natural Family Planning.  There is information at this website:  www.ccli.org  No pain, no side effects, no expense, no risk.