Nov 21, 2013

 

When we first decided to embark on this amazing RTW adventure, the question of what to do about birth control was one of the first to come to mind. I did a bunch of searching around and much to my dismay, I did not find anything that was very helpful.

This was a concern for me and I felt like when I was doing my research I couldn’t find a ton of information on what I should do. Up until two days ago, I had been on the pill for many years. Considering the anticipated length of our trip, I wasn’t too keen on trying to carry around a bucket full of birth control pills. I also wasn’t keen on trying to have them sent to me when I needed more. My other concerns included A) All those packs of pills would take up a ton of space in my pack, B) What if something happened to my pack? Stolen, wet, really hot, really cold, C) What if the pills couldn’t get to where I was staying. All of these things could make taking the pill daily when I’m supposed to a challenge.

Taking all of that into consideration, I then considered getting an IUD. It worked well for me because I don’t have any interest in getting pregnant in the near future and it meant not having to worry about taking any daily or monthly birth control (ie: the ring). And not having to take a pill daily is weird, but nice!

Once I made up my mind, I was able to schedule an appointment rather quickly with my gynecology office and I would recommend doing so at least 4 months prior to your departure. This will allow you to have a follow-up appointment 3 months after insertion and will hopefully give your body enough time to adjust.

There are a couple of options to go with in terms of IUD’s. The two that I was informed of are Mirena and Paragard.

First let’s talk about Paragard. This IUD is said to be over 99% effective and is one of the only options that is hormone-free. So if you’re not into the whole hormone thing, this might be the option for you. Because it’s hormone-free you can expect, after a few months, to maintain your normal period cycle. Some women report that they experience heavier or longer-lasting periods, as well as some spotting during the first few months after insertion. But if you like having that extra “insurance policy” knowing that you are definitely not pregnant, then this might be a good fit for you as well. It’s also great for those extra long trips - the ones that are 5-10 years long, as it is suitable to use for up to 10 years with the option to have it removed at any point in time before that.

Now let’s talk about Mirena. This IUD also is said to be over 99 % effective and it does not release estrogen, however it does release the progestin hormone called levonorgestrel into your uterus. Because it does release a hormone, you can expect significantly lighter or shorter periods, with the possibility of them being eliminated completely. Some women report that they experience a heavier or longer lasting period, as well as some spotting during the first few months after insertion. Mirena is suitable for those looking for an effective birth control that will last them up to 5 years. I ended up choosing Mirena because personally, I happen to really like not getting my period. I also like knowing that I won’t have to carry around as many tampons...or go out searching for some on a remote island in Thailand!

Both of these IUD’s have very similar characteristics, with the biggest differences being the presence or non-presence of hormones and the length of time the IUD may safely remain inserted into your uterus. Other than those two things, both IUD’s have very similar features.

How do they work?

For both IUD options, the IUD is inserted into your uterus by your OB-GYN physician during a regular office visit. Paragard works by preventing the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. Mirena on the other hand, does not have a specific and firmly known method for preventing pregnancy (I don’t understand how they don’t know how the darn thing works!!), however doctors do believe that a number of things work together to prevent it.

What to expect

Getting an IUD is a pretty simple procedure that only takes a few minutes. First, I had to go off of my pill a few days in advance to initiate my period. For the insertion itself, I went in to my OB-GYN as if it were a regular visit. Many women, myself included, may experience some discomfort and cramping during the insertion. I will be honest in telling you that it was one of the most painful things I’ve experienced but the worst pain lasted less than a minute and the less painful cramps lasted only for that day. After that I had no pain, just some bleeding as I finished my period (which did end up lasting a few days longer than normal). Ask your doctor what medications you can take ahead of time that may help to reduce cramping. They probably won’t work, but it might make you feel better mentally! Also, remember to breathe. Lots of nice...deep….breaths.

The cost of an IUD will definitely vary between different insurance carriers. It might be free for some and might cost a couple hundred dollars for others. It all depends on what you've got. The receptionist at your OB-GYN office might be the best person to talk to in terms of understanding the cost for you - your doctor probably won't know because they won't know what your exact insurance covers. For example, my doctor told me that it would cost $X and it ended up costing 3X that amount. No big deal, but it can be a surprise if you're not financially prepared. 

Remember, I’m not a Doctor.

That’s the key thing. I hope that the information I’ve provided you with here is helpful in beginning your search for a suitable birth control method for your worldly travels. I’m optimistic in what an IUD can offer me in a RTW travel setting but I highly recommend talking to your own doctor about what is right for you. Let them know that you're planning on a RTW travel expedition and that you'll need a viable birth control option. Remember, we’re all different! And while it’s a beautiful thing, we have to remember that what works for one may not work for another.

 

Roam On!

 

 

Written by Jen Hays Jen is a marketer with a passion for the digital world and an insatiable desire to travel and explore all that the physical world has to offer; marrying the two to share her experiences with and inspire all who join her along the way. Find her on Google+ | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

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