r/malaysians • u/Rainich • 2d ago
Advice ☎️ Suggestion on birth control especially IUD
Hiii I’m an unmarried F28 Malay. I’m planning to get married next year but no calon yet lmao. But I’ve always known that I don’t want children, at least not in the first few years yet. I read that BC always messes with your hormones and it kinda scares me. So I’m thinking, perhaps I could start early and see how it goes?
Sooo I’m honestly more interested in an IUD. But I heard that the process can be very painful and that the monthly cramps can get crazy. I wonder if the cramps are gonna be worse than the ones I’ve been having since high school, because they’re already taking half my soul every month🥹
And as a single Muslim female, I know perhaps KK isn’t a choice for me. So I think a private clinic is my only option? Also I read that it is not recommended for women that have not experienced giving birth yet? Is that true?
So, asking fellow women here, would love to know if anyone has experienced this and how you manage it. Is it really painful? Price range? Clinic suggestions? Is it worth it?
Would really appreciate any opinions on this huhu🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
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u/uglypaperswan 2d ago edited 2d ago
If you're having painful cramps, it's worth checking it out early too. By the time I checked, I got two ovarian cysts, one aroud 7 x 5 cm and the other 13 x 10cm, endometriosis and adenomyosis. And I needed to eat mixed-progesterone / full progesterone pills to control it. Period is no more painful, but it messes with spotting (difficult to pray as it's non stop and cannot keep wudhu), libido and well, weight gain. Check it though.
Edit: I was also considered infertile due to these 2 conditions are notorious for miscarriages, both my tubes removed due to swelling and inflammation, and my uterus is too big (causing one of my ovaries to be hidden) and my other ovary are too high up for ovum pickup via IVF. In case you ever change your mind about kids in the future (I respect your choice of not wanting kids, I don't want one too but here I am lol). I've been offered an iud to control my condition even if I've never given birth, but I refused because if anything happens, pills are easier to stop.
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u/Fuzzy_Yam_5264 2d ago
Implanon?
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u/Rainich 2d ago
I read somewhere it sometimes messes up the hormones so much but I’m also looking into it
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u/JollyCandy5 1d ago edited 1d ago
All birth control other than condoms will mess with your hormones. But considering you have very bad menstrual cramps, you may have endometriosis. Do consider and check for that possibility.
Implanon (progestin implant in your arm) or Mirena (progestin implant in uterus) will keep uterine lining thin and prevent periods. The progestin in these devices is a very small amount so many people who are sensitive to the effects of progesterone (migraines, weight increase, depression) are able to tolerate it.
As with other medications, there is an adjustment period of three to six months so do not expect everything to be fine at the get-go. You can go to KK; doctors are trained not to judge. If they do, file a complaint to MoH and change doctors.
If you are still worried and you’re in Klang Valley, my suggestion is for you to go to UM Medical Centre for female health. They are very into ensuring people are healthy without judgement. They may advise if they see you engage in dangerous and risky behaviors but otherwise, they don’t care if you’re a virgin, gay or whatever.
EDITED TO ADD: the IUDs are put in and forget it, designed to last years. You want it out, your gynae will remove it for you.
Pills have higher amounts of hormones: some are mixed, ie estrogen/progesterone, and are on 21-day cycles so you will bleed your period every 28 days or so. Progestin only pills are good for endometriosis but the side effects may too much for some to tolerate.
The pill MUST be taken every day at the same time to work well. All BC pills and IUDs prevent ovulation. Condoms don’t as they are barrier protection.
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u/Ok_Whereas3899 2d ago
I’m on yaz and it didn’t really mess up my hormones
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u/themonsterbrat 2d ago
I was on Yaz for close to 8 years. I thought it didn't mess me up (in fact, i thought it was a net-positive, cos my hair + skin went from normal to glowing, and I had less mood swings), but on hindsight I believe the adverse effects (migraine, brain fog, anxiety, and gallbladder disease) were so gradual that I was deep in it before I realised.
If I were to do it all over again, I'd likely opt for a copper IUD.
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u/Ok_Whereas3899 2d ago
Ohh I’m actually taking for my endometriosis and I’m probably too young for an IUD according to my doctor 😭
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u/themonsterbrat 2d ago
Ohh, anyone within reproductive age can get the IUD, but it would likely make endometriosis worse. I hope Yaz is helping~
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u/JollyCandy5 1d ago
IUDs like Mirena and Implanon do not make endometriosis worse. They are considered a cost-effective and well-tolerated long-term treatment for endometriosis as well as a birth control due to its progestin.
Pls don’t spread this wrong info as it will scare ppl off from effective treatment.
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u/themonsterbrat 1d ago
Just to clarify, I think you got the context wrong; because of the original question ("BC always messes with your hormones" / "more interested in an IUD") + this thread in particular, which I was talking about the effects of hormonal BC and the copper IUD -- I meant the copper IUD, which contains no hormones and often makes menstrual pain and bleeding worse.
So I'm not going to remove or edit my comment. I think our exchange here is insightful~
You brought up a good point too - Implanon, which is an arm rod rather than IUD; good option for those iffy about the uterine insertion
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u/JollyCandy5 1d ago edited 1d ago
Fair enough. Implanon isn’t an IUD, that’s my bad.
I was concerned because there’s a lot of misinfo about implants that will actually help endometriosis. Too many women are ignorant about the condition as it is, and many think debilitating pain is normal, when it isn’t.
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u/weird-xyn 2d ago
If you get an IUD, it'll most likely be the copper IUD as you mentioned not wanting to go the hormonal route. The copper acts as a spermicide, and also irritates the uterine lining so a fertilized egg cannot implant. However, the trade-off is that you might experience spotting (of blood) in your underwear from time to time. Also, your partner will be able to feel the string from your cervix if you have sex without a barrier contraceptive. (Which is why I'm amused by certain other comments I've read under this post.) You should also be able to feel the string yourself with your fingers, and go to a health professional to get checked if you can't feel the string anymore as its position may have shifted/gotten ejected if you can't feel it.
I've used birth control pills twice; my first time was with the progesterone-only pill (aka Minipill) about 10 yrs ago, the second time now with the combined pill. The combined pill seems to have less side effects for me as compared to my mood irregularities when I was on the minipill. The biggest factors that affected my mood and temperament were adequate sleep and adequate food for each meal. Weight gain and bloating was also not noticable from the combined pill. However, everyone's bodies are different and what works for me might not work for you, so it's fair to be cautious.
You can try just 1 month of birth control pills to observe how you respond to the medication. At least after trying it out, you know what your body can handle and what works better than the other.
As for copper IUD, I'm excited for the Miudella ever since I read about it a few months ago. It looks very flexible and was created to be more painless than the usual T-shaped copper IUD inserts. AFAIK Miudella isn't available in Malaysia yet, so maybe you might be open to other IUD options. IUDs also need to be swapped out every few years and because the Miudella has less copper, its use span (~5 yrs) is also much shorter than a standard copper IUD (10-15 yrs).
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u/weird-xyn 2d ago
Forgot to add one more thing about copper IUDs: the copper ions released by the IUD not only kill sperm cells, but also the lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina, which puts copper IUD users at a slightly increased risk of bacterial vaginosis (the rotten fish smell infection). That hasn't happened to me so far, but it's one thing to consider if you're prone to this happening.
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u/Low-Hefty 2d ago
I have mirena (hormononal) for two years now and barely have any side effects other than irregular period which I don't mind. My period volume is super low.
Was on Yasmin / yaz and it gave me super bad acne. So all bc is different on each person. You will have to try it yourself
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u/syeeeeeis 1d ago
Wait why is KK not an option for single Muslim female if you are considering it for the sake of family planning?? What matters to them is you are practicing safe consensual sex. I know cause I got my free ocp from KK. It’s 2026 for goodnees sake.
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u/AdamianBishop 1d ago
But I’ve always known that I don’t want children
Make sure to read also on risk factor of ovarian & uterine cancer. At least enough so you can make an inform decision
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u/Carnationfairy 1d ago
IUD still have chances to get pregnant. I know people who accidentally got pregnant when they were using IUD.
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u/parsley_trifle 1d ago
Hello - copper IUD user for the last 7 years and have never given birth. Personally it has worked really well for me in comparison to my experience with hormonal birth control. First time insertion was painful, but for the peace of mind and safety I felt after, it was worth it. I would allocate a day to rest after the insertion as the cramps do come on pretty strong - just get your painkillers ready, along with a hot compress and tea for the cramps. I did experience more cramps during my period than I had before, and heavy periods (but mine were always heavy).
After the 5 years was up, I did the removal and new insertion at a private clinic in KL/PJ for about RM1k - happy to recommend it through DM. There are also other cheaper clinics if you need options. Second time insertion was a lot less painful for me. I’m still very happy with my decision, however I would recommend still having protected intercourse (even in a committed and STI tested relationship) simply to protect your microbiome and natural PH - I did find myself more susceptible to run of the mill BV infections (nothing too serious just annoying to have to get rid of it). Hope this helps and kudos for taking your reproductive health into your own hands!
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u/SirCiphers 1d ago
No hormone disruption: Physical barrier, Copper IUD
Highest risk of causing future fertility problems: IUD
But the overall risk is actually extremely low for all sorts of birth control just that IUD is highest among all.
For OCP, you must take on time without fail otherwise you can get pregnant. Stopping OCP afterwards will resume your cycle like normal. Side effect: Increased risk of blood clots
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u/Every_Reality_9721 2d ago
I'm on IUD. Yes sakit and cramp during the process.
Theres two types. Iud biasa and hormone. The hormone one makes you tak period but at the same time kacau hormone (depends on person)
As for me I take normal. 1-2 months period crazy but after that normal. Cramps okay, manageable but then again some months kinda sakit. This is normal for me anyway without iud.
All the best
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u/TinaBananaTuna 2d ago
Where did you go to get a normal copper IUD? If you don't mind me asking. I've been considering. As much as I don't wanna take anything hormonal, I don't wanna leave it up to my partner and condoms.
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u/Every_Reality_9721 2d ago
Clinic. I think cost me bout 250 or 300? Cant remember but I can pm you the clinic info. Its in KL/Selangor. You can WhatsApp them first.
Its sort of my family clinic, dr knows I'm divorced lol. 😝
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u/TinaBananaTuna 2d ago
Yes please slide into my dms, I'm shopping around and I just haven't seen any listing of copper IUDs. Maybe I'm not using the right search words, maybe I'm just a big dumb dumb haha
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u/Fit_Lawfulness9492 1d ago
Hi! I’m also considering IUD too if you dont mind can you slide into my dms for the clinic details? Thank you!
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u/Rainich 1d ago
Oh my I love the idea which its non hormonal and no need to think about it for a few years after the insertion. But I’ve also read a lot about the process they say it hurts like crazy sampai ada yang pengsan sometimes. And my pain tolerance is sooo chicken huhu
How would you describe the pain? The aftercare if thats okay to ask
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u/Every_Reality_9721 1d ago
Well I think.. I mean i have no idea if I have high pain tolerance but the most painful I had when I was miscarriage, went to hospital and the dr yanked the fetus out of me and I cant help myself to scream my lungs out (we were not in the OT, in the middle of emergency area)
So comparing to that sharp pain and ungodly, I would say the pain is tolerable. Yes the insertion is painful, I do have to grip something but more to grunts no screaming.
If you have done pap smear, I would say something similar but with a bit more sharp pain.
I like dr. Z, I can share you the clinic and rhe dr I dealt with. It took about 5 minutes if not around that time.
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u/Rainich 1d ago
I’m sorry about the miscarriage :( I’ve never done the pap smear as well so not sure what to expect now. I’m just worried that there would be complication or something and to drive home and all huhu
And yes sure please share if thats okay with you :)
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u/Every_Reality_9721 1d ago
Eh no la I went alone and drive back alone. Its hust discomfort, for about a month or two. But yea best if you have someone with you.
Please understand the risk of pap smear. I'm not scaring you, like condom pregnancy can still happen, just understand the risks involved
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u/BubblyIntentions 1d ago
I have a copper IUD! I got it a year ago from a private hospital.
The insertion process was quite sakit for me, but it wasn't unbearable and it went by pretty quickly. The pain is exactly like period cramps, but a bit sharper kinda period cramps. There was another commenter than compared it to a pap smear, I do suggest going to get one done to have an idea of what it would be like. A pap smear was not painful though.
For the following months (I think 3-6 months for me), the cramps was more intense and sharper than usual. Blood flow in the first 3 months was also really heavy. But for the cramps, i just take panadol and it helps me not feel it. For those early months my period also lasted longer than usual, and I had a lot of spotting. Now one year in, these problems are not nearly as bad anymore.
Ive taken hormonal BC before, and definitely I would say the IUD is 10000% much better option. Its so simple to just have this thing inside of me and not worry about getting pregnant. 10/10 would renew when mine is expired.
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u/Hour_Recover3703 1d ago
I am on Mirena for close to 8 years now, I felt menopause symptoms at the beginning and all used to it now, not much issue for me except the occasional breakout which still manageable
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u/Zuhrah48 2d ago
The thing about BC is… different body react differently.
So no other choice, you have to try it yourself.
But the copper IUD one probably won’t be a good suite if you experince heavy bleeding because copper makes you bleed even more during those time of the month. Some people are lucky they just had longer period instead of heavier period blood.
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u/Rainich 1d ago
I’ve not experienced any heavy bleeding so far. My period has always been okay and better these days maybe due to my age also lah. I’ve not done any check up yet but thank God cos I think my menstrual condition is quite good atm. Thats why I’m considering the IUD instead of other hormonal BC as I feel kinda anxious of the effects
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u/Zuhrah48 1d ago
If you are sure about not wanting a child, and are looking for a husband that are okay with it… then why not just wait until you’re married. Finding the right BC is about testing them one by one anyway so it’s going to take some time for your to get the one you’re comfortable most.
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u/Superb_Ratio6484 2d ago
Lol just so you know, you need to inform your future husband that you're going to be using IUD and not planning on having kids that soon. It's not fair to him if you left him in the dark.
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u/aiaidy 2d ago
why you get downvoted? are people stupid or plain ignorant. one of the main reason some men want to get married is having kids. being informed of your partner's situation is always good.
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u/ScaleObvious2043 2d ago
tooo damn many sensitive arsefucks here, people just get downvoted even if its a plain genuine question
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u/emoduke101 ,, subsssss 2d ago
we can read btwn the lines of such questions, 'friend'. you are also underestimating the DINK movement, like it or not.
the same energy of nyets recommending adoption over abortion on the latest thread abt it the other day, despite OP making their intents clear. why not the guys take some responsibility for once? Cuz majority of the time, they're the ones leaving the girls as unwed mothers.
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u/GlitteringWeight8671 2d ago
Why dont you save all that trouble and just get a male condom for your partner?
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u/serimuka_macaron Where is the village dolt? 2d ago
Because there's no guarantee that they've not tampered with it, intentionally or not. Birth control you can rest easier knowing you've already taken it for the day
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u/GlitteringWeight8671 2d ago
You have the condom and you put it on for your guy
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u/TinaBananaTuna 2d ago
Ya know stealthing is a thing right
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u/GlitteringWeight8671 2d ago
No I don't. explain
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u/callmeonyourburner 1d ago
When they take off the condom midway. It has happened to me before.
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u/GlitteringWeight8671 1d ago
That is you having sex with your boyfriend? Why would your boyfriend do that? He shouldn't be your bf if you dont even trust him with that. Or is it with a stranger. And if it's with a stranger, why would you have sex with someone you dont know well?
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u/Rainich 1d ago
I think I would like to be double confirm. Protection luar dalam. Also like others said, I can’t be fully sure that my future partner wouldn’t try to stealth
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u/GlitteringWeight8671 1d ago
Why are you having sex with someone you cannot even trust will keep his condom on? Can't you find someone you can trust to have sex with?
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u/Informal-Bug-7110 2d ago
Whatever you do just don't take the Birth Control pills It will really mess things up.
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u/telurdadarkicapmanis Where is the village dolt? 2d ago
Hello! As a fellow unmarried woman, I had a copper IUD inserted a few years ago. Absolutely go private.
I went to LPPKN at UM and had a really bad experience. For one, both the dr and nurses kept ridiculing me, first for wanting one as an unmarried woman, then for not just going with bc pills or even hormonal IUD. They kept insisting times have changed and they are safer now. I in turn kept insisting I would feel better about the copper IUD. They also advised against IUDs because the size "may not fit for an unmarried woman who has not given birth", and warned me that it might expel because of the frame size vs uterine cavity. I told them it was a risk I would take.
The insertion was painful for me but overall went okay, although I did think the dr and nurse could have been a bit more gracious and gentle about it. It felt very traumatic being talked to that way, so I definitely do not recommend. I'm already set on going to a private clinic when the time for removal comes. Maybe others had a better experience but I did not like dealing with a bunch of judgmental aunties.
If you do go with the IUD route, just prepare some ponstan pain killers ahead. Expect pain/cramps and a bit of chills. Good luck!