I joined this forum so I could reply to this thread. I don't have any friends with IUDs so it was really nice reading everyone's opinions and experiences.
I've had an the Paraguard since January. The insertion wasn't bad, a little worse than getting cavities filled, but it didn't last long.
The main problem with me is the spotting. Right now I'm not supposed to be bleeding of course, but I am. Sometimes it is more watery than menstrual fluid, and my biggest anxiety is having an embarrassing accident in an inconvenient place. I wear pantyliners frequently, I don't like them very much as they make me feel sweaty and nasty down below. Maybe someone has a suggestion for ones they like.
I much prefer wearing thong underwear most of the time as I find them more comfortable, but with my current problem, it seems foolish for me to buy anything other than black butt-buckets (granny drawers). I also enjoy my black skirts and pants very much! Nothing like hazard insurance against the overflow!
The cramping is random and annoying, but on the upside it's a nice announcement for a spotting episode.
It's been 8 months now and these side effects have not subsided. Some months are better than others. My periods are heavier than they were before, I can overrun large tampons in hours on day 2. It can get exciting.
Overall, I'm glad I did it. All of this is much less inconvenient than an unwanted pregnancy!