ParaGard and Acne: What Users Say

• KCo...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• May 3, 2020

For Birth Control "I got my ParaGard out after 9 years of having it in. I was experiencing copper toxicity and wonky hormonal shifts. Symptoms: ovarian cysts (very expensive appointment to confirm through sonogram), cystic acne, liver started to struggle (vitamin blood test proof), easily got sick, body pains, dizziness, panic attack, trouble sleeping, daily diarrhea (not even docs or my mom could figure this out). After dramatically changing my diet to cater to reducing cysts and cystic acne, no dice. I was still in incurable pain at random (ibuprofen, magnesium, CBD, hot pad all did not work). It wasn't until I shared my story online that I found the cause was my IUD! Total spent over this issue is likely anywhere between $2K-$5K total. I just want awareness spread more than anything."

• Lea...
• April 4, 2021

For Birth Control "Prior to using ParaGard, my sex drive was high and my husband and I had a very active and fun sex life. I got mine put in 2 months after my first baby was born and everything went downhill fast after that. I experienced depression, anxiety, hopelessness, cystic acne, severe PMS (I'd barely had any PMS prior), crazy mood swings, forgetfulness and brain fog, no sex drive whatsoever, and just a complete lack of interest in my spouse, pain during sex (not severe but uncomfortable and lingering), and overall I just felt like a wreck and not myself at all. It took a long time to figure out that my issues were coming from the IUD and copper toxicity. After 4 1/2 years of suffering, I finally had it removed 4 days ago. Tonight, for the first time in years, I actually enjoyed sex and desired my husband!! The sex was free from pain and discomfort too. While this IUD is great at preventing pregnancy, it's not worth losing yourself over. I'm so glad to be free!"

• Mam...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 21, 2019

For Birth Control "Please do your research on copper toxicity before getting this inserted! It sounds promising with a quick insertion and 10 years of protection, but the side effects can be debilitating. I was only on it for 4 months, and it was miserable. Some of my side effects included NO SEX DRIVE, spotting, crippling anxiety/depression, brain fog, cystic acne (I’ve never struggled with before), aching/sore joints all over my body, twitches, and complete personality change. It made me into an irritable, angry monster, I didn’t even recognize myself. When I finally realized what was happening, I got it out. I felt instant relief. I wish I had done more research before I risked my close relationships, health, and well-being for this. There needs to be more research done on the safety of this product."

• No ...
• November 8, 2019

For Birth Control "When I first heard about the copper IUD, I was really excited because it's non-hormonal, and that's the reason why I chose this option. My IUD insertion was about 10 minutes. The process of getting inserted was uncomfortable but still manageable. The first three months were awful because my period would be two weeks long and spot on and off for the rest of the month. On top of that, I was constantly getting cramps and lower backaches. After six months, my cramping did get better and the period shortened up, but it was still heavy as anything. I'm about 11 months in with this IUD and I'm considering getting it removed. Even though it claims to be non-hormonal, it definitely messed up my hormones a lot. I'm constantly getting acne when my skin has been clear most of my life, and I feel bloated all the time. My PMS symptoms are way worse than before. Bottom line is I’ve had it with this IUD. If any of you guys have similar symptoms as me, did it get better after copper IUD removal?"

• Sea...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• February 7, 2020

For Birth Control "I sought out an experienced OBGYN, and insertion went flawlessly. I have a tilted uterus, so I was extremely nervous. For the first 3-4 months, my periods were heavier and longer, and I had lower back pain (which may have been attributed to my bed). My periods are now back to normal. 2-3 days of medium-heavy flow. No other side effects. This has been a godsend after years of misery on pills, patches, and rings. I no longer have acne, migraines, or severe depression. Everybody is different, find what works for you."

• fun...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 3, 2023

For Birth Control "I had ParaGard for three years. I want to post about my experience with the hope of validating anyone reading this. If you have the copper IUD and you’re experiencing water retention, weight gain that seems impossible to reduce, cystic acne, mood swings, decreased sex drive, gut issues, bowel movement issues, joint pain, and overall less quality of life… you’re not crazy, you’re not imagining it. I was never once told that perhaps my copper IUD could be the root cause of symptoms, and I could probably go to college again with all the money I’ve spent on medical and dermatological bills. Yes, the IUD prevented pregnancy for me, but at what cost? Trust yourself and what your body is telling you. So far, it’s been 10 days since the removal. The dull ache in my abdomen is subsiding, my brain feels like an anvil, my mood is lifting, and my mid-section is noticeably less swollen. Also, my bowel movements aren’t a liquid nightmare. I hope things continue to improve."

• Anonymous
• March 2, 2020

For Birth Control "The side effect symptoms started 3 months after insertion of ParaGard, roughly when I started to wean from breastfeeding and my cycle returned. I got insane IBS symptoms out of nowhere, nausea, insomnia, and panic attacks. The symptoms lasted about 4 weeks before I made the correlation and decided to get the IUD removed. 3 weeks after getting it removed, I felt back to normal. I went back to my doctor to discuss other birth control alternatives, and she convinced me that the ParaGard did not cause my symptoms and convinced me to get it back in. I started to think that maybe my side effect symptoms had been from weaning from breastfeeding anyway. I agreed to have it replaced. 3ish weeks later, all of those same symptoms came back, in addition to a 10-day period, a metallic taste in my mouth, and acne. I got the IUD out yesterday and am waiting for the side effects to go away. Never again will I put anything made of copper in me."

• Sis...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• June 5, 2019

For Birth Control "I will say I started off loving ParaGard. Insertion was easy. My first one expelled within the first month, which is common, but I got a new one placed. I loved it for about 2 years, then I learned about copper toxicity. I can account some of my SEVERE disabling mental illnesses to this device. The first 6 months, cramps were worse but manageable, and ever since, my PMSing has gotten horrible. I basically have flu symptoms for 2 days before every cycle. My breasts grew practically overnight somewhere between 16-18 months with the ParaGard. Before, I was barely filling out an A cup, now I’m a D cup. Nonhormonal my ass, it influences hormones. I’ve had stomach problems, UTIs, yeast infections, smells from down there, pain with sex, chronic fatigue, bloating, allergies developed, memory issues/brain fog, and skin problems (acne and persistent eczema that I’m just finally getting to clear up). I’ve gained weight and overall just feel like garbage. Please avoid this device."

• Faw...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• October 14, 2019

For Birth Control "I had the copper IUD for 18 months. Recently, I just had it taken out because of a considerable amount of side effects due to copper toxicity. I experienced brain fog, weight gain ('40 lbs' to be exact), body aches, headaches, ZERO ENERGY, stomach issues, very bad cystic acne, and my mental health declined. Also, I became severely anemic. My periods consisted of a lot of blood clots and heavy bleeding. I would not recommend this birth control because it took away my happiness for 18 months. I am excited to see improvements come now that this birth control is out of me. NEVER AGAIN will I put a foreign object inside my body."

• yyr...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• September 15, 2019

For Birth Control "To have it inserted wasn't really bad. I was impressed it's for 10 years and is not hormonal. I had some cramps, some bad ones, and my period is definitely much heavier and lasts 10 days. It didn't change after the first 6 months, but I started bleeding between my periods. And having pain only on the left side. I am dealing with acne now and had horrible migraines nearly every day. I went to the doctor. They said I'm fine. I am feeling very tired. I can't sleep properly and I don't have energy. I also have chest pain, and again the doctor said I am fine. I used to enjoy sex, but now I'm never in the mood-never! For so long. After reading other women's reviews, I related to their symptoms and can't believe the doctors don't tell you about all these side effects. I can't wait to have it removed and don't want to hear about it again! I would not recommend it to any woman. It's sad that we have to go through all this. I'm going to try the fertility awareness method. Take care! Lots of love to all women!"

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• December 27, 2019

For Birth Control "I got this ParaGard, and after about 1 year, I started to have horrible brain fog, couldn’t remember words, then started to have vision problems and dizziness. Then came the headaches and cystic acne. The headaches were present every day, felt like pressure was too high inside my head. My ear started to click, I could hear my heartbeat in my ear. I was always super tired and moody, it was so hard to get out of bed. Then I started having nystagmus and bruxism to the point of breaking my teeth and having jaw pain. Got it removed, and 90% of the symptoms went away. The liver stores the copper, so it is hard to detect on serum. Worst thing I’ve done in my life."

• KRa...
• June 9, 2019

For Birth Control "I love my ParaGard! I’ve had it for a month. Insertion was uncomfortable, but nothing you can’t handle. Some cramps the first week, and a slightly longer, heavier period, but again nothing not manageable. I love how I can’t feel it and how it is hormone-free. No adverse side effects, and the best part is how I still ovulate and keep a healthy cycle. I’ve been on the pill and Mirena before and had emotional PMS and also terrible acne. None of that with ParaGard so far, and I often react quickly to things. Don’t fear all the negative reviews. Usually, people who are most angry write the most reviews. Most people get it, enjoy it, and move on with their lives without writing a review. I feel healthy and positive and love owning my own birth control in a positive and non-hormonal way! No one method is perfect, but for me, it’s a great fit based on what’s available."

• Cel...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• December 20, 2020

For Birth Control "I had it for 9 years. Insertion left me in the worst pain I’ve ever felt for a few days. Bloating continued for months after. I became prone to infections and had many throughout the years. I started seeing vitamin deficiencies along with being significantly weaker, fatter, and had more pains. I started having premature greying, cystic acne, and ovarian pain. Year 9 it worsened. I also had fibromyalgia, diarrhea, low back pain, and trouble staying asleep. The doctor did verify an ovarian cyst but still didn’t suspect the IUD. A friend did. I got it out, rebalanced vitamin deficiencies, and cut dairy. It has been 8 months post-removal and orgasming is easier, there’s no pain during sex anymore, period blood doesn’t smell, taste isn’t off, bowels and sleep are normal. No more ovarian cyst. I still have some issues, but they are improving. I would have never done this to myself if I had known how it does affect hormones and health significantly."

• Dam...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 24, 2015

For Birth Control "I switched from the Nexplanon to the ParaGard, and let me tell you how much of a life saver that was! I was ALWAYS moody, hungry, breaking out, and my libido was in the negatives. So I decided to toughen up and get the IUD inserted. It wasn't pleasant since I hadn't had kids and did not take any painkillers, but it was completely worth it! A day of extreme cramps in exchange for 12 years of no hormones and preventing pregnancy? Hell yeah! I can feel like myself physically and sexually again, which was impossible to come by on any hormonal birth control. I highly recommend the ParaGard."

• Bla...
• June 23, 2019

For Birth Control "So I tried it 2x. 1st after my 2nd child. I gained lots of weight, got acne, cramps, and bleeding heavily. Finally, it fell out about 2 years later. My doc said my body rejected it. I feel like they have false ads saying it has little side effects. Gave it the benefit of the doubt, tried it a 2nd time since my birth control pills were no longer covered by my insurance. Huge mistake. Same thing all over: horrible acne, gained 40 lbs in 1 yr. Nothing helps me lose weight. I was going through tampons & an extra heavy flow pad within 1 hr. Kept bleeding through my clothes, not to mention 10-day periods. My life was on hold, had to miss work because I was bleeding so much. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore, got it taken out after 1 year. My skin is so clear, never break out anymore, not even before periods. My periods are back to 3 days and light. Lost 7 lbs in 1 month so far! Never again! False ads, lots of side effects. Obviously, I’m not the only one by reading some of the reviews. Wish I would have read on it sooner!"

• Aca...
• February 16, 2022

For Birth Control "Removing the copper ParaGard was the best decision I have ever made for myself. I realize this form of BC has worked well for many of you, and that is really fortunate... but for those women who are unsure, please do research on copper toxicity before getting this inserted. I failed to do this, and for four months I had cystic acne, heavy periods, and I felt completely depressed. Copper made my uterus swell, and the effects from that negatively impacted my entire body. I am so glad it's out of me. If anyone tells you, 'the ParaGard doesn't cause all those side effects and it's completely in your head,' they are completely wrong."

• Kac...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 28, 2019

For Birth Control "I"

• Par...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 21, 2022

For Birth Control "I had my copper IUD inserted three and a half months ago. Insertion was fine. I had a heavy period that lasted 16 days, accompanied by extreme period pain, diarrhea. After the second period (16 days) ended, I began to experience mood swings and deep lows. My cystic acne began. After 20 years of clear skin, and almost no mood swings, the non-hormonal IUD was throwing my body into disarray. Ridiculous bloating and pain continues. My skin is getting worse. I believe my body is rejecting the copper IUD. This is definitely not for me, and I am getting it removed ASAP. Do not recommend!!"

• Mis...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 23, 2022

For Birth Control "I lost a baby last July. In August, I needed a DNC because there were remaining tissues, and I had already loved the idea of ParaGard being non-hormonal. I decided to have it put in right after the DNC, extremely painful experience, it took my breath away. Maybe due to my situation, I was extra tender. I felt great knowing I could basically have carefree sex with my partner. However, within a month, I started experiencing strange anxiety, like I just had to get outta wherever I was. Now, here we are 6 to 7 months into having the ParaGard, and I'm suffering overwhelming anxiety, fast heart rate, panic attacks, inability to accomplish something alone like an adult should, wretched acne, bad crampy periods, bad bleeding, iron deficient. Removed today, and I feel a sigh of relief! Copper toxicity was beginning, I do believe. I don't recommend this. I'm crampy upon removal. Research!! I discovered my symptoms were similar to those on here after I read into this. You're not crazy."

• Ker...
• January 2, 2017

For Birth Control "The ParaGard is hands down the best method of birth control! I had a lot of trial and error finding the right kind of birth control for me. I've tried pills, the Depo shot, and the Implanon. They always had some kind of bad side effect on me, from weight gain to acne to migraines. I just wanted something all-natural that would get the job done. I decided to give the ParaGard a try even though I didn't like the fact of something being inserted in my uterus. It's done an amazing job. Insertion and removal were quick and almost painless, with some mild cramping. Periods were light and maintainable. I couldn't 'feel' it either. Now I'm ready to have my first baby, but it's going right back in afterwards!"

• Chl...
• December 16, 2019

For Birth Control "I got my IUD inserted in March of 2017, when I was 19. I had never been pregnant. Insertion was the most painful experience of my life. I took ibuprofen and Valium. I could barely walk afterward, and my boyfriend had to drive. I had severe cramping and pain. I bled like crazy, and my periods have lasted 2+ weeks since then. I get cramping 3/4 weeks per month with the IUD and pain on the left side. I cramp at the beginning and end of my period, and the ones at the end are worse. I am left stuck in bed with a heating pad, writhing and sweating. I get pain from my IUD before, during, and after sex as well. I have gotten terrible cystic acne on my cheeks, which I never had before, and extreme PMS. I have had joint pain, UTIs, and yeast infections. I will be getting it removed ASAP. My strings disappeared within 2 months of insertion, so I may need surgery to remove it. I'd rather find out I'm pregnant than deal with another month of this BS."

• Lov...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 30, 2018

For Birth Control "I have been on ParaGard for 3 months now, and it’s been great so far! My periods are always on time, they last about 5 - 7 days, no more than that, and I have no cramps nor mood swings. No depression. The only thing I have noticed is I get a pimple here and there with this birth control, but nothing major. And since I do bleed a lot during my period, I take iron pills while I’m on my periods (just a word of advice)."

• Mim...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 13, 2021

For Birth Control "The first day I had ParaGard installed, I had terrible cramps. The pain lasted almost 2 days. Make sure you install it on a Friday so you have at least 2 days off to adjust. After that, ParaGard has been amazing. I used to use hormonal birth control and had gained 12 pounds on Nikki and Lutera. I couldn’t lose the weight no matter what! After switching to ParaGard, I lost 7 pounds so far (with diet, of course). My acne is better (because it’s hormone-free), and my periods are normal. My periods last the same amount of days it would before ParaGard. However, I switched from a regular tampon to a super tampon. Cramps are the same as before. Nothing major. With ParaGard, I have the peace of mind that I won’t get pregnant! (I was still worried when I was taking the pill)."

• Yes...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 4, 2015

For Birth Control "I have nothing but good things to say about ParaGard. I started the birth control pill in my late teens and had horrible side effects, weight gain, acne, etc., etc. You name it, I experienced it. I tried a couple more birth control methods, but the side effects were too great for me to continue. At 24, after 2 years of marriage and my first baby, I really started to do my research and found ParaGard, and I have not looked back since. Four years later, and I could not be happier."

• Ann...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 20, 2017

For Birth Control "Everyone makes the ParaGard out to be some big, bad monster. The only negative thing about getting off the pill and onto the ParaGard for me was I've had a little bit of acne since I'm not on hormones anymore. It felt like a pinch when I got it inserted. I had moderate cramps for two days, and that's it, and it didn't make my period heavier at all. It really isn't that bad! The only worry I had was that there were 43 days between my first and second period on ParaGard."