Which IUD is the safest for a woman?

This question is really one for your doctor. Depending on the kind of woman you are and your medical history depends on which is best for you. It is true that hormonal birth control does put you at risk of certain cancers, but it also prevents other cancers. The copper IUD is known for giving women heavy periods at first. If you have a history of anemia, your doctor may discuss that risk of using a copper IUD and if you have a history of certain cancers your doctor may discuss the risk of using a hormonal IUD. Other risks that come with both is a puncturing of the uterus, and a possibility of getting an infection in the uterus from insertion. The copper IUD, because it is without the hormones does put you at a lower risk of blood clots and certain cancers that hormonal IUDs put you at risk of and with hormonal IUDs come side effects like headaches. I am not sure about this part but talk to your doctor. These side effects during pill use tend to go away after 3 months or so on the pill, this may be the same for the IUD. The IUD may also be less risky than combination pills because it does not contain estrogen. Your biggest risk from the copper is more of an inconvenience than a risk...and that is for many women periods tend to get worse before they get better. If you are looking for lighter or no periods, you should discuss this desire with your physician. And lastly, no, you can use them whether you have had a child or not. That USED to be the case but that has since changed.

All IUD's carry pretty much the same risks. Possibility of implantation( it attaches to your uterus) or perforation(actually goes through your uterus) are the most dangerous but are very rare and usually only occur due to doctor error. There are some possible side effects, but nothing like most medicine! Some cramping after it is placed is extremely common but usually doesn't last long! Anemia(low iron in the blood) is also possible. You may have longer or heavier periods, but most women experience lighter, shorter periods (or no period at all like me.) My doctor recommended Mirena and I have had great success with it! Minimal pain after placement and no period. IUD's are only suggested for women who have already had a child because it is easier to place if your cervix has already been opened and your body is less likely to reject it. You should check out Mirena.com There is a lot of information there that can help you choose the birth control you want. They list multiple forms of birth control, not just IUD's.