contemplative I've finally decided that I am sick and tired of BCPs. I hate taking the pills, they make me feel nauseous and I just cannot stay consistent to save my life.
My main problem with the pill is that because I'm not consistent taking it, it really messes with my complexion and I HATE it. While on the pill (very inconsistent) for about a year or two, face was just awful with the acne. I went off of it for 3 months or so and it really cleared up a lot and I was very happy. Then I had a MAJOR pregnancy scare and so now I'm back on it for the added contraception protection (not that it does much when I don't take it correctly, but I guess in my mind it does). But once again, the stupid skin crap is starting up again and it's getting on my nerves. I've been on ortho tri-cyclen, yaz and now ortho-cyclen and I'm convinced that it's either the hormones or just my inconsistency that is causing this acne side effect.
That being decided, I'm really starting to consider other forms of longer term, easily reversible birth control. I've really ruled out all the other hormonal types (implant, depo shot) because of the nasty side effects there seem to be.
So now I'm down to the IUD. I don't really think I'd have a major problem with a foreign object in my uterus or anything like that and I think I have a fairly high tolerance for pain and all. I'm 22 and have never been pregnant. I've been in a securely monogomous relationship for 2 years now.
I'm trying to decide which I would prefer, the copper or the hormonal IUD. I've read that the progesterine in Mirena is lo-dose (which I've never tried in pill form), but it is the most androgenic (acne-causing) and I'm curious to know if anyone who has had acne-prone skin has had their skin condition worsened, improved, or remained the same on the hormonal OR copper IUD. I am not opposed to the copper IUD at all, but if I could have the same protection with lessened or even non-existant periods than I would rather invest in that, of course.
BTW, I've been looking for feedback on IUDs all day on the internet and all the message boards have been negative and full of horror stories. It is so refreshing to find this community on LJ with more diverse experiences and women more in my age-range.
Thanks in advance for your input ladies!!!