Paragard IUD Frequently Asked Questions

The Paragard IUD is associated with some very serious complications, both as the result of side effects of the IUD itself and the negligent implantation of it by doctors. These complications can be anything from a minor headache to a very serious medical condition. When you are injured as a result of a Paragard IUD, you have rights that deserve to be protected. You are entitled to receive financial compensation as the result of these injuries—compensation that can help you get your life back on track.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by a Paragard IUD, the highly experienced attorneys at Gilman & Bedigian are here to fight for you. Here, we answer frequently asked questions about the device, as well as what to do once you have suffered injury.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Paragard IUD?

Paragard is a non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). It is inserted into the uterus and is designed for the long-term prevention of pregnancy. It is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals and was approved by the FDA in 1984. It is a “T” shaped device made of plastic but is wrapped in a thin layer of copper. The manufacturer advertises that it is one of the few non-hormonal options available for IUDs.

2. How does Paragard work?

Paragard works by creating a minor inflammatory reaction in the uterus which is toxic to sperm and creates an environment that does not permit pregnancy in 99% of cases. It does not use hormones to regulate your body or your ability to get pregnant but uses the copper on the device to prevent pregnancy.

3. How long can Paragard prevent pregnancy?

Paragard advertises that it is the longest-lasting IUD device, providing up to 10 years of pregnancy protection for women. Because of the length of time, Paragard remains in the body, complications can arise at any time.

4. Does Paragard protect against HIV or other STDs?

No. Paragard does not protect against HIV or STDs, nor does it advertise that it does. If your doctor incorrectly told you that your IUD would protect you from STDs, this is malpractice and you could be entitled to financial compensation as a result of any related injury.

5. How is Paragard placed in my body?

To place the Paragard IUD, your doctor will:

perform a pelvic exam and determine the position of your uterus,
apply a sterilizing solution to your vagina and cervix,
measure the depth of the uterus,
insert a thin, flexible plastic applicator to insert the IUD,
remove the tube, leaving Paragard inside with two threads extending into the vagina,
trim the threads to the appropriate length, and
teach you how to perform a self-check on the threads.

Issues can arise due to the negligent implantation of Paragard in your body. These complications can range from minor to life-threatening.

6. What complications can arise as a result of negligent Paragard placement?

If Paragard is not placed properly, you may experience dizziness, nausea, increased bleeding, and you may get pregnant. You may also continue to feel the device, which you should not after some time. With Paragard, you should still get a period—if you do not, this can be a sign of pregnancy or other complications.

During placement, the IUD may also become attached to the uterus. This dangerous condition can cause life-threatening illness, severe injury, and can result in infertility. A negligent doctor or the manufacturer of the device can be held responsible when this occurs.

7. Are there dangers with Paragard during removal?

Paragard is designed to be removed at any time you want. However, a number of issues can arise that seriously injure patients during its removal. Pieces of Paragard may break off or fracture during the removal process. This can require painful and expensive surgery to remove the broken pieces. In other cases, a full hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) might be required as a result.

During both implantation or removal, there is a risk that the device or an instrument used to remove it could perforate the uterus. This condition can be very dangerous to the patient and may cause infertility in addition to very serious injury.

8. What is an ectopic pregnancy and can Paragard cause it?

If a person does get pregnant while Paragard is installed, an ectopic pregnancy can result. This occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus, most commonly within the fallopian tube. Left untreated, it can cause deadly bleeding in the mother and it may also cause infertility.

9. What experience does your firm have with Paragard IUD lawsuits?

Our firm is highly experienced in representing women injured by the use of Paragard IUD lawsuits. We specialize in both medical malpractice law and product liability law. Because of this, we understand the complicated medical issues associated with this device, as well as how to prove that your injuries were caused by it. We have the knowledge and experience necessary to prove to the jury that your injuries were caused by the IUD, or the doctor’s negligent implantation or removal of it.

10. What compensation can I receive as a result of a successful lawsuit?

An injured person is entitled to receive financial compensation for her injuries that result from negligent implantation of Paragard or the side effects associated with it. This compensation can include, but is not limited to:

cost of medical bills
future medical costs
rehabilitation costs
pain and suffering
lost wages
loss of consortium
damages related to loss of ability to get pregnant

When you are harmed, you should not be responsible for the high costs associated with your medical treatment. You are also entitled to financial compensation for the pain and suffering you endured, not just the “bills” you incurred.

Paragard IUD Lawyers in Philadelphia

When a Paragard IUD causes you harm, you are entitled to bring medical malpractice and/or products liability claims to receive financial compensation. The experienced attorneys at Gilman & Bedigian have the knowledge and years of practice to fight for your rights.