Historically, I (33 F) have painful, long and heavy periods. Growing up, it was always an issue: I found out that I had PCOS at about 21 years old, however, I have never had actual cysts on my ovaries, nor do I have any presence of endometriosis (doctor had a good look in surgery) – my periods are just heavy and painful, and they’ve always been at least seven days long.
I got my first hormonal IUD at 21 for birth control, but found that the benefit of losing my period was the real MVP for me. I had it removed at 26, and tried the implant next because the IUD insertion is painful and the implant can also stop periods (which it did), but it made me an emotional zombie. I removed that at 28, and tried to go without birth control. I lasted three months. I had another IUD inserted, and then a little later that year, had a bilateral salpingectomy (a sterilization surgery in which the fallopian tubes are removed, but the ovaries and uterus remain), since I do not want children.
I don’t want another IUD. The only reason I still have it is because it stops my periods, and I am genuinely terrified of having a regular period again. A uterine ablation isn’t an option, as my doctor has strongly recommended against them and will not perform them due to concerns about scarring and future cancer detection. A hysterectomy is probably also not an option, since I doubt my insurance would cover it, and I would not be able to afford to do it on my own (or really afford the deductible even if it is approved – ah, America). When I was younger, doctors told me that my periods would become lighter and less painful after having a baby, but… I don’t think that’s a particularly good argument for parenthood.
I am sure some of my Gen-X and Millennial ladies have experienced coming off of long-term birth control, and I’m just looking to hear about your experiences: what happened to your periods after being on birth control for that long? I’m honestly afraid that I can’t hack it anymore – having to have sanitary products on hand, accidentally bleeding on my sheets and clothes, cramps, SNEEZING – it all sounds awful and I’m seriously considering just having these hormones in my body until menopause hits. I’m not looking to affirm or dissuade myself from any particular decision — I just want to be as informed as possible before making a decision that could, no exaggeration, impact my enjoyment of life for about half the month.
Comments
I choose to look at long-term birth control the same way I do as any other medication, it makes my life better so even if there are side effects I continue to take it.
There are some realities that simply exist, and it sucks when you have to deal with them. But like having blood clots, mental health issues, or any other chronic issue, long-term medication is sometimes a necessity. And in the case of terrible periods, frequently that option is long-term birth control.
At the end of the day, it’s whatever choice makes the most sense for you.