Our birth control injury lawyers are investigating potential lawsuits for women who have been injured by the Paragard intrauterine birth control device (IUD). While this medical device works well for many women, some have suffered complications during device removal. Several studies have also linked certain types of birth control with a serious brain injury called “pseudotumor cerebri (PTC).”

Some women who were diagnosed with PTC after using hormonal products have filed product liability lawsuits. Our firm is currently investigating cases in which the Paragard IUD caused dangerous side effects including PTC and injuries during device removal. If you or a loved one used a Paragard IUD and suffered from serious injuries, you may be eligible to file a Paragard IUD lawsuit.

Paragard May Cause Perforation and Complications Upon Removal

The Paragard website states that occasionally, the Paragard may be difficult to remove “because it is stuck in the uterus.” They add, “Surgery may sometimes be needed to remove Paragard.”

There may be other problems, however, besides the IUD getting stuck. A report made to the FDA’s Medical Product Safety Network notes that one patient went through removal after she’d had the Paragard implanted for 8.5 years. She went to the clinic to have it taken out.

Upon removal of her device, the doctors found that the copper coil that is typically wound around the plastic T-shaped base was missing. There was copper on the “T” arms of the device, and both arms were intact, but there was no copper on the vertical part.

Other potential complications include parts of the device breaking off when removed, which can damage the uterus. If that happens, patients typically have to go through surgery to have the broken pieces removed. In rare cases, a full hysterectomy may be required, which can be devastating.

The Paragard may also perforate the wall of the uterus, particularly when the doctor first implants it. Perforation can cause additional complications, including infection, scarring, or damage to other nearby organs. Surgery is often needed to correct this problem.

Finally, in the rare event that a pregnancy does occur while the Paragard is still in place, there is an increased risk that the pregnancy will be ectopic (outside the uterus). This is an emergency situation that requires immediate medical attention, often involving surgery. An ectopic pregnancy can cause internal bleeding, infertility, or even death.

What is the Paragard IUD?

Teva Pharmaceuticals manufactures the Paragard IUD. The device is designed to provide long-term birth control (contraception), and was FDA-approved in 1984. Women who prefer not to take birth control pills often turn to IUDs as an alternative option.

The device is made of a plastic, T-shaped base with copper wire coiled around it. This copper produces an inflammatory reaction in the uterus, which is toxic to sperm and eggs. While it’s in place, it helps protect against pregnancy. The Paragard website states that the product can continue to work for up to 10 years. They advertise it as the “only” IUD that is completely hormone free, and state that it is 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.