WHAT IS the ParaGuard Copper T IUD?

The IUD is a small plastic or plastic and copper device that is placed inside the uterus to provide continuous birth control for five to ten years.  It is believed to work by affecting the sperm, the egg, and the uterine environment in various ways that prevent fertilization or implantation. At this time there are two kinds of IUDs available: 

• Paragard, a copper-bearing IUD, may be used for up to ten years, and
• Mirena, an IUD containing a hormone (progestin) to reduce menstrual bleeding, is good for up to five years. 

How effective is it?

The IUD has a failure rate of less than 1%.  It is effective immediately after insertion.

Who can use the IUD?

The IUD can be used by women who have never had children as well as those who have.  However, it may be tolerated better if you have had a full-term pregnancy.  It may be best suited to the woman who wants highly effective, long-term yet reversible contraception and who is in an ongoing, mutually monogamous relationship.

It is very important to be at low risk for STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) if you are planning to use an IUD.  If you acquire an STD while using the IUD, you could get a serious infection called PID (pelvic inflammatory disease), which can result in several problems including infertility.  You may be at greater risk for STDs if either you or your partner have more than one sex partner. 

You may not be able to use the IUD if you have had PID recently, if your last Pap smear was abnormal, if you currently have an STD, or if you have had an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy.

What are the risks and side effects?

Paragard can cause your menstrual bleeding and cramping to increase.  This may resolve after several months.  Other potential problems include spontaneous expulsion of the IUD, perforation or embedding of the IUD in the uterine wall, serious pelvic infection resulting from an STD, and a greater risk of ectopic pregnancy if you become pregnant while on the IUD.               

Will I be able to feel the IUD?

You will not feel the IUD when it is inside your uterus.  Once a month, after your period, check to make sure your IUD is still in place by inserting a finger into your vagina and feeling for the IUD string at the tip of your cervix.    Call your clinician if the strings are longer or shorter, or if you feel plastic at your cervix.

How can I get an IUD?

The IUD must be inserted by a trained health care professional after performing certain lab tests.  The insertion takes about fifteen minutes and can cause some cramping that lasts a short time.  There is a slight risk of perforation of the uterus during the insertion.

Sometimes a follow-up visit is recommended, especially if menstrual periods become extremely heavy.  The risk of infection is highest for the first several months after insertion, so be sure to report any severe abdominal pain accompanied by fever or an abnormal vaginal discharge.

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