Gynefix vs Injection

Like many others, I found myself unable to decide between a coil (painful) and hormones (just dont want hormones). Gynefix has been the perfect in-between solution for me. Hormone-free, but also not painful. Insertion was a bit uncomfortable. The gyno needs to pierce your uterus wall. It felt a bit like getting a tiny push somewhere deep inside which, rather than super painful, was just a weird feeling which is what makes it uncomfortable. During the week after I could still feel that spot but again it wasn't really painful just weird to be aware of an internal organ like that. Other than having to avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks, the recovery was very smooth and I had no issues. You cannot feel the gynefix inside you which is amazing. I have noticed no difference in my periods other than that 2 weeks before my period is due, I get some light spotting. I was afraid that during sex, the guy would feel the removal thread, but this was not the case. The thread also curls around the cervix a bit (over time) which makes it even less noticeable. Maintenance wise it's also great. Just visit the gyno every couple of months to get an ultrasound and make sure the Gynefix is still in place. You get 5 years of protection. I wish the gynefix was advertised to more people because I believe it is an awesome solution for anyone that is looking for a pain-free, hormone-free, hassle free contraceptive.

I got my gynefix mini online and had it inserted at the John Hunter clinic in London. I had paraguard before which gave me terrible cramps and incredibly heavy periods: I had Jaydess for 3 years which gave low but manageable mood but I started having terrible back pains either it. Once I had it removed, back pains stopped. I didn’t use anything for a while and then tried the implant, which was awful! It gave me terrible mood swings and anger! Went back to jaydess and back pains returned and low mood. I started looking for other options and found gynefix and I am so glad I did! Insertion was painful and my periods are significantly heavier but nothing I can’t live with. No back-pains, no horrible craps and no mood effects! Thank you whoever created this! I really forget it is there and only sometimes can slightly feel it, but this is by far the best contraception I’ve tried! It was hard to find a dr to get it fitted and I had to order it myself as NHS don’t supply it, but worth it!

Got one at mortimer market in 2023 and other than a slight increase in discharge (normal discharge), which to be honest I don't think is related to the gynefix, I have had an amazing experience with the gynefix, I just wish it lasted longer than 5 years! Insertion was very smooth; uncomfortable/painful for sure but nothing terrible and not the worst pain of my life, I was able to walk home after the procedure. Had spotting / light bleeding throughout my cycle for maybe a month or two, and I remember having spotting for a few months, but honestly nothing crazy or super annoying. My period was a bit heavier for a few months after insertion but now it is back to my normal (I had light, minimal pain periods before the gynefix for context!). I love it and wish it was more available in the UK, fear that when I need it out I wont be able to get it on the NHS and I can't see myself wanting any other contraception.

Used for over 10 years, completely stopped my periods which was fantastic. The devices became harder and harder to use, needing a lot of force to inject so I ended up turning myself into a pin cushion & wasting a few, which made reordering a faff. Don’t think I gained weight and if anything my skin improved (but that could just be normal from teenage to late 20s). The only negative I noticed was decreased sex drive - but it didn’t totally go so not a massive issue for me.

I was on this injection for 2 years, the whole process put me off . when i started the injection i had a period of 16 days (over two weeks) and it was so heavy, months went on and my periods stopped all together, i didn’t have a period for minus 2 years , i’m now on the combined pill but i did receive higher anxiety and depression towards taking it for ages, the doctor offered me antidepressants but i didn’t want to be taking them as i am a quite smily happy person but i literally lost all my energy and motivation to do anything.

With the contraception I experience a lot of abdominal pains frequently

Worst decision I’ve ever made Gained a lot of weight Depressed Anxious Moods all over the place

I like the injection as no periods at all but gained over 2 stone in weight and no amount of dieting, eating less or exercising helps loose any weight at all I just gain even more.

I didn't notice any changes at first. I got my period for the first month or two, then the bleeding was irregular and lighter and eventually it stopped completely. I gained weight quickly. I would get hungry even after eating. I would get severe vaginal itching a few days after the shot.

It is effective and it's convenient but unfortunately the side effects are really bad but it depends on different body types

This is pretty good for preventing pregnancy and my periods are thankfully gone, but now I have acne after having years of clear skin. It’s hormonal acne too due to the progesterone in the injection, so a nightmare to get rid of. I was prewarned about this issue but still hate it. I feel like my mood has gone lower too and I am more irritable than usual. Unsure whether I’ll get it again I will probably go back to the Lucette pill as that completely cleared my skin.

Caused me horrendous hunger such that i couldn't feel satisfied with any amount of food. It was terrible for me. And the side effects continue even after stopping. It was my first time in 11 years to back to hormonal contraception and l will never ever do it again. I only go non hormonal. I honestly can't take the risk.

As a newer young and childless nuristrate injection patient I don't recommend it for use . So far my body is experiencing a hell of changes . Irregular periods ,green smelly discharge and ugly acne