Learn About Paragard® Side Effects

Home » Paragard® IUD » Paragard® Side Effects

Paragard® is one of five different intrauterine devices, or IUDs, available in the United States. A non-hormonal, copper device, Paragard® is a popular form of birth control and can even be used as a form of emergency contraception if inserted within five days of having sex.

The most commonly reported Paragard® side effects are mild and it is the only IUD that has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for more than 30 years.

However, there have been recent reports that the copper birth control device can break and become embedded in other organs, requiring a surgical procedure to have it removed.

Women Are Filing Lawsuits

Now, some women are filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of the device, claiming they weren’t properly warned about the risk of breakage. Learn more about the ongoing Paragard® litigation and whether you qualify.

Learn More

Common Side Effects of Paragard®

While most studies have shown the Paragard® IUD to be safe and effective, there are some commonly reported side effects to be aware of.

Some women may experience heavier and longer periods, as well as some pain and spotting in between normal menstrual cycles, especially within the first few months of having the device inserted. Dizziness, cramping, pinching, and nausea may also occur soon after the device is inserted.

Woman with hands on stomach suffering from pain, looking aside

Other Serious and Rare Side Effects

In rare cases, more serious Paragard® side effects have also been reported and listed in the prescribing information provided by one of the manufacturers, Cooper Surgical, including:

Anemia
Dysmenorrhea
Dyspareunia
Vaginitis
Complete or partial expulsion
Pelvic inflammatory disease
Ectopic pregnancy
Perforation

However, this is not a complete list of possible side effects and you should always contact your healthcare provider should you experience any pain or changes after having the Paragard® IUD inserted.

The Dangers of Removing the Paragard® IUD

While inserting Paragard® is a relatively easy process with minimal reported side effects, removing the device comes with its own set of dangers.

There have been a few reports of device breakage during removal. If the IUD gets stuck or breaks in any way, it can lead to serious side effects and surgery will likely be required to completely remove the device.

Broken pieces can perforate the lining of the uterus and any copper wiring that may get left behind can cause excessive inflammation and injury. This can, in turn, lead to infections and organ damage.

While Cooper Surgical does mention “device breakage” and “difficult removal” as potential side effects, many women who have suffered harm from this device and required surgery to have it removed argue that they were never properly warned about this risk. Furthermore, a big question surrounding the Paragard® IUD is whether manufacturers misrepresented the device as safe when it actually has a risk of being defective.

Have You Suffered Harm From Your Paragard® IUD?

Suffering harm from a birth control method you trusted can be devastating. If you had the Paragard® IUD inserted and experienced serious side effects that required you to undergo surgery to have the device removed, you have legal options and may be entitled to compensation for the pain and financial losses you’ve endured.

Numerous women have already begun filing lawsuits against the manufacturers of Paragard®. Medical device manufacturers have a responsibility to appropriately warn the public about any dangers with their products. When they fail to do so or inaccurately represent the safety and effectiveness of their devices, it can cause innocent people to get hurt.

If you have any questions about Paragard® side effects and whether you qualify for a lawsuit, contact Goldwater Law Firm today by calling 800-210-9700 or filling out our online form. We can connect you with an experienced Paragard® lawyer who can help you determine the best course of action and stand up for your rights.