For the Ladies: Regarding birth control

i know there are likely more appropriate threads, but they didn't seem active. My question is about the implant, and if any of you used it post-op, and if saggy skin on your arms caused any problems?

im pre-op, and won't have surgery until January or February but I'm looking to switch and acclimate to my new method before then. I'm currently on the pill and know it may not be reliable afterward (likely will have RNY). The implant is where I'm leaning. We plan on having kids when my weight is stable and I'm maintaining, and know it's not generally recommended before 18months or so post-op

I would highly recommend the mirena IUD. 5 years of birth control, can be taken out at any time.

I'm not completely closed to the IUD, but it does skeeve me out a bit to have something implanted that I can't see, if that makes sense? I feel like I can look at my arm and see if it looks irritated/infected or whatever. I realize it's kind of a stupid fear, but that's why I'm hoping I can get more feedback on the implant before I opt for an IUD.

I understand! The IUD completely freaks me out, even though it's quite safe and effective.

My only suggestion is to check into how long the implant takes to leave your system. Some hormone-based meds can mess up your cycle for a while and could potantially delay things when you are ready to start trying.

The IUD has two little strings that stick out from your cervix. They're very fine, like fishing line, and curl up around your cervix after it's been inserted. You can reach up in there and feel for them at any time; my OB suggests checking for the strings once a month to make sure it's still in place.

Thanks for this response! I was wondering exactly what would be felt and if my husband would be weirded out if he were to notice it during bedroom time...he had expressed a bit of concern about that and whether he could potentially dislodge it if being...vigorous.

My husband has never noticed it in five years. The strings tuck up very close around your cervix and lie flat, with no pointy ends to stick out and poke anything. I have to bear down a little bit, like doing a kegel, in order to feel mine.

The IUD itself is tucked up inside your uterus. Because of its size and shape, it fits very snugly and is hard to dislodge. Trust me ;)

When I first learned about IUDs as a kid, I was just shown bad illustrations with nothing for reference, so I assumed they were like the size of coat hangers. It wasn't until I saw a TV ad for a Mirena IUD, well into my 30s, that I remember my mind being blown because they're SUPER teeny. OMG. Why didn't they tell us this in health class when I was a kid?!

lol I think a lot of us had "coat hanger" thoughts. I know better now, but I think I still have residual anxiety about sticking WHAT?? WHERE?? Lol

I have been really happy with non-hormonal IUDs. They've worked great for me for many years.