ParaGard T 380A (ParaGard) is an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) intended to prevent pregnancy in women. After the ParaGard is inserted into a woman's uterus, it continuously releases copper into the uterus, which is believed to prevent sperm from finding and fertilizing the egg. According to the FDA and the University of Washington Hall Health Primary Care Center, ParaGard may result in several side effects following insertion of the device into the uterus.
Abdominal Cramping
After the ParaGard is inserted, you may experience mild to moderate abdominal cramping or pain. These symptoms may be uncomfortable but typically subside over several hours or days. Over-the-counter pain medications taken prior to or after IUD insertion may help to alleviate these symptoms in some women.
Vaginal Bleeding
After the ParaGard is inserted, you may experience light vaginal bleeding---a side effect also called spotting. Though spotting normally subsides after a few days, you may still experience spotting between your menstrual periods for up to six months following IUD insertion. A panty liner or light tampon may help you manage this symptom.
Nausea/Dizziness
After the ParaGard is inserted, you may experience mild to moderate nausea or dizziness. Certain women may faint after having the IUD inserted. These symptoms typically resolve within 30 minutes following this procedure. In order to limit the severity of these symptoms, your doctor will likely recommend that you remain lying down for at least 30 minutes after she has inserted the ParaGard.
Pelvic Infection
After the ParaGard is inserted, some women may develop pelvic infection or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women are at the highest risk of developing PID within the first 20 days following insertion of the IUD. Though the development of PID is rare, it is a serious condition that results in an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries and can cause chronic pain or infertility. If you experience severe abdominal pain, fever or vaginal discharge or bleeding after your IUD is inserted, contact your doctor as soon as possible to ensure you do not have a pelvic infection.
Expulsion
After the ParaGard is inserted, some women may expel the IUD from the uterus. Expulsion of the IUD most commonly occurs within the first month of use. Within the first year of IUD use, approximately 2 to 10 percent of women expel the IUD, according to the University of Washington Hall Health Primary Care Center. If you believe your IUD has been expelled, contact your doctor immediately to ensure you do not become pregnant.
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