I can only tell you my experience it may vary with each person. I had it inserted and it was uncomfortable, not painful. I was told to take it easy and rest for the rest of the day....with 3 kids very unlikely lol. hubby did try to get me to stay in bed but it didnt work lol. I was up and about the same day. I had minor cramps nothing to bad. the days that followed went just as smooth. My first cycle after I had it inserted was heavier and I did have worse cramps nothing Tylenol couldnt fix. I have had it for 3 years and I 99% of the time I forget its there. I have no side effects like those you get on the pill, shot etc. There are risk certain risk as with any birth control. Heres the link
http://www.paragard.com/