ParaGard is a hormone-free IUD (intrauterine device) that can provide long-term birth control (contraception). It’s sometimes referred to as a nonhormonal IUD option.
The ParaGard device is a T-shaped plastic frame that’s inserted into the uterus. Copper wire coiled around the device produces an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs (ova), preventing pregnancy.
ParaGard is the only copper IUD available in the United States. It can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years after insertion. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Paragard in 1984. According to Cooper Surgical, it has been proven safe and effective for more than 30 years.
How is it inserted?
First, a healthcare professional will insert a speculum into your vagina with the help of lubricant.
Your doctor will then prepare the IUD device by folding the “T” arms down into the IUD tube. Then they will place the IUD tube through the cervix into the uterus. When they remove the tube, the arms will release into place.
ParaGard device has a string that hangs down from the uterus into the vagina — your doctor will snip the string so it’s no more than an inch (or two) long. This process usually takes less than 5 minutes.
How long does it take your body to adjust to ParaGard?
Many people experience cramping for a few hours to a few days after insertion. Inserting an IUD requires opening the cervix and some cramping is a common reaction to that. This cramping is more common in folks who experience cramping leading up to or during their menstrual cycle.
Does Paragard have a lawsuit?
Yes, the Paragard IUD lawsuits claim the device breaks upon removal and causes serious injuries and the need for surgery. Claimants are seeking compensation and allege that Paragard is defective and manufacturers failed to properly warn them about the risk and likelihood of device breakage and injury.
Paragard lawsuit claims include:
- IUD has manufacturing and design defects.
- Labeling doesn’t adequately warn about breakage risk.
- Defendant manufacturers were negligent.
In December 2020, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation consolidated dozens of lawsuits across the nation in the Northern District of Georgia under Judge Leigh Martin May. As of Jan. 28, 2021, trials have yet to be scheduled.
How much can you get from Paragard lawsuit?
Based on global settlements in prior mass tort cases involving defective medical devices and internal damages, lawyers believe that paragard lawsuit settlement amounts in the highest settlement tier will have a value between $100,000-$180,000.
What are the common side effects of ParaGard?
The most common side effects reported with ParaGard include:
• A heavier or longer period
• A more painful period
• Spotting between periods or abnormal uterine bleeding
If you experience these side effects of ParaGard, the symptoms might lessen or go away after a few months.
In rare instances, IUDs have been associated with potentially more severe side effects such as:
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): is an infection of the uterus or other reproductive organs that requires medical attention. It is important to know that the risk of PID may be increased for only up to four weeks after the procedure. After one month, women using an IUD are at no higher risk of infection as compared to women who do not use an IUD. Using a condom is an important way to help minimize infection risk.
• Placement issues, such as problems that happen when placing or removing the IUD device.
