Paragard IUD Lawsuit Overview

What Is the Paragard Lawsuit?

Thousands of women are filing lawsuits against Teva Pharmaceuticals and CooperSurgical (the current manufacturer) alleging that the Paragard copper IUD breaks during removal, leaving fragments in the uterus and causing serious complications.

The Paragard IUD is a T-shaped contraceptive device wrapped in copper wire. Marketed as a safe, non-hormonal alternative to other birth control options, it is designed to be removed by a simple medical procedure. However, thousands of women have reported that the device's plastic arms broke during attempted removal, requiring surgical intervention to retrieve the fragments.

What Are Plaintiffs Alleging?

The lawsuits allege that Paragard's manufacturers:

Knew about the breakage risk for years based on adverse event reports
Failed to warn patients and healthcare providers about the defect
Continued marketing the device as safe and easily removable
Used a design that becomes brittle over time while in the uterus
Profited while women suffered serious injuries during removal

What Injuries Are Linked to Paragard?

Common complications from Paragard breakage include:

Retained fragments in the uterus after attempted removal
Uterine perforation — The device or fragments puncture the uterine wall
Device migration — The IUD moves out of position
Surgical removal procedures (hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, laparotomy)
Infertility from uterine damage
Hysterectomy — Complete surgical removal of the uterus
Chronic pelvic pain
Scarring and adhesions
Ectopic pregnancy
Infection

How Does Paragard Break?

The Paragard is made with a polyethylene frame that holds the copper wire. Over time while in the uterus, this plastic can become brittle and fragile. When a doctor attempts removal using standard techniques, the plastic arms can snap off and remain embedded in the uterine wall or become lost in the uterine cavity.

Recovery of these fragments often requires:

Hysteroscopy — A scope inserted through the cervix
Ultrasound-guided removal
Laparoscopic surgery
Open surgery (laparotomy) in severe cases
Hysterectomy if fragments cannot be safely removed

Current Status of the Litigation

The Paragard litigation is consolidated as MDL 2974 in the Northern District of Georgia, before Judge Leigh Martin May.

Thousands of cases pending in the MDL
Bellwether trials being scheduled
No global settlement has been reached
New cases continue to be filed as more women experience breakage issues

Why You Should Act Now

If you experienced Paragard breakage or other serious complications:

Statutes of limitations vary by state
Medical records from the removal procedure are critical evidence
Early filing positions you well for any eventual settlement

A free case review costs nothing. Find out if your Paragard complications may qualify you for compensation.