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Overview of Intrauterine Devices
Intrauterine devices, more commonly referred to as IUDs, are small, implantable, contraceptive devices. These intrauterine devices are used by approximately 4.5 million people in the United States, according to a 2014 study.
IUDs are meant to prevent pregnancy and are more effective than condoms, the pill, the ring, the patch, or the shot. There are many types of IUDs currently on the market, including Liletta, Kyleena, Mirena, Skyla, and ParaGard.
IUDs are small T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus through the cervix. Generally, IUDs have small strings attached to them that allow medical professionals to remove the device after several years. Some IUDs are only approved to be implanted for 3 years, while others may last for 10. There are two main types of IUDs: non-hormonal copper IUDs, and hormonal IUDs.
Non-hormonal IUDs are made of copper and plastic, and prevent pregnancy due to copper’s spermicidal properties. These IUDs are effective within a few days of placement, and may be left in place for up to 10 years.
Hormonal IUDs contain levonorgestrel, a hormone that causes the lining of the uterus to thin and cervical mucus to thicken, preventing pregnancy. These devices are generally considered to be effective for between 3 and 5 years.
ParaGard IUD Side Effects
Intrauterine device placement may be painful or uncomfortable for many users. Common side effects of IUD placement include pain, discomfort, cramping, and spotting. These symptoms generally decrease in the weeks or months following the IUD placement procedure.
General side effects related to IUDs may include heavier periods for those with the copper IUD, a lack of periods for people with the hormonal IUD, back pain, headaches and migraines, abdominal pain, and irregular spotting. More serious side effects of IUDs may include pelvic infections, IUD perforation through the side of the uterus, ovarian cysts, vaginal inflammation, or ectopic pregnancy.
IUD Recalls and Safety Announcements
So far, the ParaGard IUD has not been recalled, despite the slew of lawsuits being filed against the manufacturer over serious side effects. Indeed, thousands of patients have filed lawsuits over device breakage, which in turn can cause damage to the uterus or other pelvic organs, infections, bleeding, and more.
It can be a difficult decision to choose between IUD options. Many lawsuits have also been filed over side effects linked with the Mirena IUD. The U.S. FDA has not issued a recall regarding the Mirena device.
However, in 2019, ParaGard’s maker added the potential for breakage to the device’s “Warnings and Precautions.” The warning reads: “Breakage of an embedded Paragard during non-surgical removal has been reported.”
IUD Lawsuits and Settlements
Thousands of people claim to have experienced breakage of their ParaGard IUD — more than 3,200, per KOMO News. Lawsuits have been filed by plaintiffs who claim to have experienced adverse reactions following their IUD placements and claim that the ParaGard IUD is capable of breaking and causing serious internal damage.
Those who have experienced severe side effects of ParaGard and other IUDs may be eligible to hire an attorney and file a class action lawsuit regarding the possible dangers of the device. Victims who pursue litigation regarding their intrauterine device side effects may qualify to receive compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
