Before Getting an IUD, Read What a Doctor Has to Say About the Potential Side Effects

For any kind of IUD, the most common side effect is changes in menstrual bleeding, said Laura Pineiro, MD, an ob-gyn with Northwestern Medicine. With the Paragard in particular, she said, the main side effect will be intense cramping, particularly in the first few months as your body gets used to the IUD. You'll also continue to have a regular period but may have a heavier flow. "You'll have a period every month, but just heavier and more crampy periods," Dr. Pineiro told POPSUGAR.

IUD insertion, whether for Paragard or a hormonal IUD, is also likely to come along with pain and some cramps for a day or two afterward. Read more about the insertion process and side effects here.

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