ParaGard IUD is known to be an intrauterine device (IUD) that is inserted into the uterus to achieve long term contraception. The device itself has a T shape and it has a plastic frame.

This releases copper that prevents the sperm from getting into the fallopian tubes. Even if fertilization takes place, the device won’t allow for the egg to get implanted into the lining of the uterus.

Advantages of the IUD called ParaGard

The good thing about the device is that it offers protection against unwanted pregnancies for 10 years, but we have to note that it doesn’t offer protection against STDs.

Paragard IUDOther advantages include the fact that the users don’t have to interrupt their activity to use contraceptive methods and you don’t need the agreement of your partner.

Although ParaGard IUD can be used for 10 years, it can be removed at any point, and soon after you will become fertile again.

One important advantage is that the use of the device reduces the risks of being affected by endometrial cancer. It can be used by women who are breastfeeding as well, but in this case there are some risks associated.

Unlike the other contraceptive methods, the IUD called ParaGard doesn’t have any of the side effects that estrogen has. Unlike the other methods, it can be inserted as an emergency contraception if it is used at even after almost five days after intercourse.

Limitations

When thinking about ParaGard IUD you have to know that the method isn’t suitable for everybody. Your doctor might advise you not to use it in case you have any abnormalities that would interfere with the function of the device. Pelvic infections also make the use of the device impossible.

If you had an abortion or you gave birth a little while ago, you will have to wait to be able to use the IUD called ParaGard. Genital cancer and abnormal vaginal bleeding also prevent women from using the method. It is also possible that you have an allergy for a component of the device.

In case you have any kind of disease that makes copper accumulate in your liver, you should make sure to avoid the method. When being at risk or being infected by an STD, you shouldn’t use IUD and the same thing is true if you had problems with similar devices in the past.

Risks of ParaGard IUD

Although it may seem easy to use the device, you should know that it is possible to experience some side effects. The most common side effects include cramps, heavy bleeding and severe pain, spotting, anemia, nausea, pain during sex, backache, vagina discharge, vaginitis and itchy rash.

In case you are using the IUD called ParaGard, it is possible that your body will expel it. The chances of expulsion grow in case you have never been pregnant before, experience severe pain during your period, have prolonged or heavy periods, you aren’t 20 yet, you have expelled an IUD before or in case the device is inserted right after childbirth or abortion.

According to statistics, about 1% of the women who have been using ParaGard IUD for a year got pregnant, and if this happens, the chances of having an ectopic pregnancy increase. If you do get pregnant and you get the device removed, it is likely to suffer a miscarriage. On the other hand, the risks of leaving the device inside while being pregnant are even bigger. They consist of miscarriage, infection, premature delivery or septic shock.

Preparations for the IUD called ParaGard

Before the device gets inserted you will get a full physical exam and the pelvic area will also be examined. You can have the device inserted at any time in case you didn’t have sex since your last period or you have been using contraception. In any other case it is required for you to have a pregnancy test before the device is inserted.

What to expect from ParaGard IUD

The doctor will introduce a speculum into your vagina and clean the cervix and the vagina with an antiseptic agent. Then, with the help of a special tool the organs will be aligned and he or she will measure the depth of the uterine cavity. The device will be placed into an applicator tube that will be inserted into your uterus. After this the tube will be removed and the ParaGard IUD will stay in its place. The strings will be trimmed so that they won’t reach too far in the vagina.