Is the Paragard (copper) IUD the right option for you? Your OB-GYN can help you make an informed decision and answer all of your questions.
However, here’s some critical information on what you should know about Paragard IUDs to help you decide if these devices are a match for you.
Strengths
1. You Can Set It and Forget It
Nowadays, many women use a Paragard intrauterine device or IUD for birth control. Paragard IUDs are T-shaped pieces of plastic no bigger than 32mm by 36mm. They also have a portion wrapped in copper and a tail of threads. Paragard’s popularity as a contraceptive method has increased because you can have one set in and forget about it. Also, the device can last for up to 10 years.
2. It Comes Without Hormones
If you’ve been questioning hormonal birth control methods, then the non-hormonal ones, such as the Paragard (copper) IUD, could be the best option for you. Paragard permits regular ovulation, and that’s how women make hormones.
3. It’s Very Effective
The copper IUD can prevent pregnancy as soon as you have it inserted. The device is incredibly good at preventing pregnancy because of the copper that paralyzes and even kills sperm. Also, any foreign object in the womb leads to an inflammatory response, increasing the number of white blood cells that can destroy foreign sperm cells.
4. It Can Act as Emergency Contraception
If you don’t want to deal with an unplanned pregnancy, you can get a copper IUD as emergency contraception in a five-day frame after you’ve had unprotected sex. However, you may be able to prevent fertilization beyond this period if you’re within five days of ovulating.
5. You Can Remove It
If you decide to get pregnant while you have an IUD, all you have to do is remove it. Paragard IUD’s contraceptive powers are entirely and instantly reversible. When you’re ready to start a family, have your OB-GYN specialist remove the IUD. You can ask them how best to get pregnant and devise a plan that bolsters your chance of conception.
Weaknesses
1. Your OB-GYN Specialist Must Insert It
You need your OB-GYN specialist to put the copper IUD in place, although it takes only a few minutes. You’ll go into the office for this minor insertion procedure similar to getting a Pap smear.
2. It Can Be Expensive to Buy and Insert
Although they’re low maintenance, in the United States, IUDs have not entirely caught on. One reason for reluctance toward Paragard IUDs is that they’re still expensive to buy and insert if insurance does not cover them.
3. It Can Be Painful
Some women may experience initial discomfort when they get the Paragard device. For example, regarding insertion pain, many women say it can be a 10/10. Over-the-counter pain killers before insertion of the device can help minimize any pain or discomfort during and immediately following the procedure. All women should have the option of getting numbing medication before insertion.
4. It Has Several Side Effects
There are plenty of warnings of health problems listed by the initial manufacturer, Teva Pharmaceuticals, and the current one, CooperSurgical, who bought Paragard in 2017. The most severe are:
- Ectopic and intrauterine pregnancy
- Life-threatening infections
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Embedment into the uterus wall
- Perforation during insertion
- Expulsion
- Changes in bleeding
- Reactions after placement or removal
5. It May Break During Removal Due to Defective Design
To date, the fact that Paragard breaks during removal has been reported by more than 3,000 women. Breakage may happen because the copper IUD is defective in design. Because the device’s arms are set at a rigid 90-degree angle, they may get stuck during removal or break off easily.
Several women had to undergo invasive and expensive surgeries to get the retained IUD fragments out of their bodies. When forced to undergo a surgical procedure such as a hysterectomy, a woman can lose her ability to bear a child. Paragard breakage also causes injuries that can lead to scarring, infections, or damage to nearby organs.
Recently, many women have filed Paragard lawsuits based on the device’s defective design. The manufacturer’s negligence led to failure to warn about the potential risk of breakage.
In conclusion, Paragard IUDs are one of the most effective forms of birth control on the market. They’re very effective against pregnancy and can be a convenient alternative for those who struggle with hormonal contraception. However, there are some side effects that you should know about before making your decision: Paragard may cause heavier periods in some cases, an increased risk of ectopic pregnancies, and they are prone to breaking during removal.
About the author
A case manager at Atraxia Law, Hilda Oltean, helps women who suffered Paragard complications determine their eligibility to receive compensation from liable manufacturers through an individual claim or class action lawsuit.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind