Hi there,
I have a few questions about the contraceptive (copper?) IUD.
Me and my partner of 2 years are struggling to find a method of contraception that works for us. My partner is highly sensitive on the insides and as such condoms have been a complete no-go for us in the past. She has been on the contraceptive pill for a long while which suited us perfectly for a time (skin on skin contact suits us best without a doubt).
Unfortunately while this worked for a while, she has recently seen some side effects despite trying several different pills. Due to these we have had her off the pill for a couple of months to see if things improve. Since doing so she has started to lose weight again, has been happier and seen an increase in libido. Neither of us are overly keen or her to go back onto the pill.
I will be honest and admit that neither of us have a great deal of self control in between the sheets. This is not a problem on the pill however with her off the pill (and neither of us getting along well with condoms, that we are once again having to use) our lack of self control is causing a high risk to unwanted pregnancy. In the moment and not liking condoms, you make excuses not to use one but the fact of it is that we are being ridiculous in reality.
We NEED to do something about this and so are exploring the idea of other contraceptives. Something that allows us to not use a condom with minimal risks, does not effect the sensation of skin on skin intercourse and might be better for my partner in terms of side effects.
So about the IUD...
How large / obstructive a device is it? As I mentioned, my partner is very sensitive so this could affect how interested we are in it. And of course there is the added concern of if it affects our feels during intercourse.
What side effects can occur?
How does it work? I am aware it is a non-hormonal method of contraception and so this one is purely out of curiosity.
On top of these, what other options are there? My partner is completely against an implant for reasons of her own but is there anything else? I am aware of the contraceptive sponge but do not know much about it.
Anyone's help would be most appreciated and thank you in advance.