Paragard
Injuries from Broken Paragard IUD Arms
The Paragard® Intrauterine Copper Contraceptive (IUD) has been marketed as a long-term, hormone-free birth control option for women. However, increasing reports of device breakage and serious complications have led many women to seek legal action.
If your Paragard IUD broke during use or removal and caused injury, you may have legal rights.
The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is committed to holding manufacturers accountable when medical devices cause preventable harm.
About Paragard
Paragard is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals and was approved by the FDA in 1984. Initially approved for four years of use, the duration was later extended to ten years. Some marketing materials have suggested effectiveness beyond that timeframe.
Unlike hormonal IUDs such as Mirena or Skyla, Paragard is a non-hormonal device. It is a small, T-shaped device wrapped in copper wire, designed to prevent pregnancy by releasing copper into the uterus. The manufacturer promotes a pregnancy rate of less than 1 per 100 women per year.
The device includes two monofilament strings attached to the base to allow for removal. However, complications have been reported involving the device’s structure—particularly the T-shaped arms.
The Paragard T-Arm Break Problem
One of the most serious complications associated with Paragard involves the breakage of the device’s T-shaped arm.
Unlike some hormonal IUDs that have flexible arms, Paragard’s T-arms are rigid. During removal—or sometimes while still in place—the arm can snap.
When the device breaks:
- The uterus may contract
- The broken fragment can become embedded
- The sharp fragment may perforate the uterine wall
- The piece can migrate within the body
Many reported breakages occur at the same location on the device, raising concerns about design or structural weakness.
Paragard T-Arm Break Study
A 2015 study published in the Open Journal of Clinical & Medical Case Reports reviewed cases handled by Chicago gynecologists over a three-year period.
The study found:
- Seven confirmed T-arm break incidents
- All required hysteroscopic removal
- In one case, removal was unsuccessful
Experts involved in the study suggested that such complications may be underreported.
Paragard Lawsuits
Women across the country have reported similar injuries involving broken Paragard arms. Lawsuits allege that:
- The device was defectively designed
- The risk of breakage was not adequately disclosed
- Patients were not properly warned of potential complications
Cases are currently pending in state courts, and additional litigation is expected. As more women come forward, multidistrict litigation (MDL) may be formed to consolidate federal claims.
Who May Qualify for a Paragard Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a claim if your Paragard IUD broke during removal or use, a fragment remained inside your body, you required surgery to remove the device, experienced uterine perforation or infection, suffered fertility complications, or required a hysterectomy. Each case depends on your specific medical records and circumstances.
Compensation May Be Available For
If your Paragard IUD caused injury, you may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical expenses, surgical costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. In cases involving wrongful death, families may recover funeral expenses, medical costs prior to death, loss of economic support, and loss of companionship. If a jury finds the manufacturer acted recklessly, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm
If you experienced complications after using Paragard, contact us today to discuss your legal options.
The Michael Brady Lynch Firm
127 West Fairbanks Ave. #528
Winter Park, Florida 32789
📞 888-585-5970
Your case review is confidential and without obligation.
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