Description
Paragard is a copper-containing intrauterine device (IUD) used to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Directions
A trained healthcare provider will insert Paragard. Tell your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Ingredients
Paragard contains copper.
The components of Paragard are not made with natural rubber latex.
Contraindications
Patients should not use Paragard if they:
- Are pregnant or think they are pregnant
- Have uterine abnormalities that distort the uterine cavity
- Have acute pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Have postpartum endometritis or infected abortion within the last 3 months
- Have or think they have uterine or cervical cancer
- Have uterine bleeding without an explained cause
- Have untreated acute cervicitis, vaginitis, or lower genital tract infections
- Have an increased susceptibility to pelvic infection
- Have Wilson’s disease
- Have an intrauterine device that has not been taken out
- Are allergic to copper or any other component of Paragard
Cautions
- Before you start using Paragard, tell your doctor:
- About all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take
- About your allergies
- About your current health conditions and past medical history
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- If you become pregnant, Paragard should be removed. There are risks of spontaneous abortion, septic abortion, premature delivery, sepsis, septic shock, or death if pregnancy occurs with Paragard in place.
- Infections, including sepsis, can occur after insertion of Paragard.
- Your risk of PID and endometritis should be considered before Paragard is inserted.
- Uterine perforation can occur which can interfere with how Paragard works. It may also require surgery.
- Paragard may become embedded in the myometrium, which can make removal difficult. Surgical removal may be needed.
- Paragard may be partially or completely dislodged and may go unnoticed, which can prevent it from working properly.
- Changes in menstruation can occur.
- Paragard can be safely scanned with MRI if certain conditions are met. Tell your doctor that you have Paragard IUD before undergoing any procedures or diagnostic tests.
Side Effects
Anemia, back ache, menstrual changes, expulsion, pain and cramping, and vaginal inflammation are possible Paragard IUD side effects. However, these are not the only side effects that can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have side effects that bother you or won’t go away.
Reference
Paragard. Trumbull, CT: CooperSurgical, Inc.; 2020.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 12275