After my initial post on my IUD (Skyla) insertion experience, I received a number of requests for updates along the way. I’m not surprised, because an IUD is just like any other birth control, and it takes some time to get used to. I figured 1 month, 3 month, and 1 year updates were the best way to keep everybody updated and provide a well-rounded recap, so here we are with Month Numero Uno.

Even though I’ve technically had Skyla less than 30 days, I’ve had a full cycle and am currently on my period, so I feel like I can give a pretty conclusive first-month review.

For about two weeks after insertion, my uterus and lower abdomen were very tender and I had mild cramping. It wasn’t unbearable or anywhere near the intensity of cramping I’d felt during the insertion or first 12 hours…it was just annoying, really. I have noticed a bit of tiredness, but nothing as bad as when I was on the pill (and I’m expecting/hoping it will decrease with time as my body adjusts to the hormones.) I also experienced substantial and consistent spotting for two weeks — the kind that looks like old blood and leaves brown-red stains in your underwear. Again, annoying, but not a big deal, and I managed it by buying some extra pairs of black panties so stains weren’t an issue.

If you read online about IUDs, you’ll often hear about checking your strings to make sure it’s still in place, as the first few weeks are when it’s most likely to be expelled or migrate. At first, I couldn’t find mine and was super panicked. I tried and tried but failed, so I tried once or twice a day for the next few days. Eventually, I realized I had no idea where my cervix was or how it would feel…turns out, I had to really get back there (basically a whole finger deep) and kind of push upward to find what ended up feeling a bit like a donut hole. And voila, I finally found the strings — they felt basically like two short strands of fishing wire.

As far as periods, I’ve discovered pros and cons this first month, some of which may change over time as my body adjusts to the IUD. Pro #1: my period came right on time at the four week mark in my cycle, despite having had longer natural cycles when I’m off any form of birth control. This isn’t critical, but it is nice for planning purposes (there is nothing worse than getting ready for an event or a big night and getting a sneak attack from Aunt Flo.) Pro #2: My flow has been significantly lighter. I don’t have to change tampons as frequently, and when I do, they aren’t so saturated that they’re leaking.

As for cons…I’ve really only noticed one, but it’s kind of a biggie. Skyla has really changed the kind of cramps I get and the intensity. I used to get throbbing, dull cramps in my lower abdomen that radiated to my lower back, but now mine are a bit worse and feel much sharper throughout my lower abdomen and also at the base of my cervix — almost like contractions that I have to breathe through for about five seconds, and then they pass — without any of the dull aching cramps at all. They remind me of a very mild version of the insertion pain, and Ibuprofen/Midol aren’t nearly as effective on them as my old cramps. HOWEVER, I think it’s manageable if you’ve got some ibuprofen handy.

My overall opinion at this point? I love it. The convenience of highly effective birth control that I don’t have to remember is underrated, and I’m definitely not missing the constant stress I felt while on the pill, wondering if taking my pill a few hours late would end in an oopsie (type A, much??) The period cramps, although not my cup of tea, only last a day or two, and in my opinion, don’t negate the benefits of an IUD.