Paragard

Paragard's copper wire is coiled around the device and causes an inflammatory reaction. This reaction is toxic to sperm and eggs, effectively preventing pregnancy. Paragard is the only copper IUD available in the United States. Since it contains no hormones, ParaGard does not stop ovulation but works to prevent pregnancy by creating a toxic environment for both sperm and egg.

ParaGard is covered by most insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider to see if ParaGard is covered by your plan.

In uncommon cases, Paragard may be expelled unexpectedly. This can occur in women who have never been pregnant or who experience heavy periods. Women under the age of 25 or who have recently given birth are cautioned against using ParaGard for these reasons. Talk to your doctor to discuss your personal situation to see if Paragard is right for you.

Dizziness, nausea, and low blood pressure may be experienced during the insertion of ParaGard but most symptoms pass when the procedure is complete.

Women with cervical or uterine cancers or disorders are advised to consult with their doctor to be sure ParaGard is an effective choice for them.

• Spotting
• Cramps
• Menstrual pain or heavy bleeding

Because ParaGard is hormone-free, most women experience fewer side effects than they would with hormonal medications.

No. Once ParaGard is inserted, neither you nor your partner should be able to feel the device.

Your healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment approximately one month after ParaGard is inserted to check its placement. You can check yourself by inserting clean fingers into the top of your vagina to feel the two threads. Be careful not to pull the threads as this can increase the risk of expulsion. If you have trouble finding the threads, contact your healthcare provider. If you think ParaGard may be compromised, use backup birth control until you visit your physician.

No. ParaGard can be removed whenever you like. If your IUD is near expiration, a new one can be inserted to replace it.

The copper used in ParaGard is FDA approved and has effectively prevented pregnancy for over 30 years.

For women using Paragard, less than 1% become pregnant in the first year of use, although it does not protect against STDs.

Women who conceive while ParaGard is inserted can experience ectopic pregnancy when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. However, because it is 99% effective, the chance of ectopic pregnancy is very low. If you decide to become pregnant, fertility returns shortly after ParaGard is removed.

Nurx™ is a free platform offering easy online access to doctors and seamless delivery of medications. No more time-consuming trips to the clinic and no more frantic pharmacy runs. We put you in control of your own health, empowering you to get the care you need, when you need it. From diagnosis to delivery of prescriptions, we make every part of getting healthy and staying healthy, better.

For more information and to sign up, visit www-test.nurx.com and follow us @nurxapp on Twitter and Instagram.