Why it's done

ParaGard offers effective, long-term contraception. It can be used in premenopausal women of all ages, including teenagers.

Among various benefits, ParaGard:

• Eliminates the need to interrupt sex for contraception
• Can remain in place for up to 10 years
• Can be removed at any time
• Can be used while breast-feeding
• Doesn't carry the risk of side effects, such as blood clots, related to hormonal birth control methods
• Can be used for emergency contraception if inserted within five days after unprotected sex

ParaGard isn't appropriate for everyone. Your health care provider may discourage use of ParaGard if you:

• Have uterine abnormalities — such as large fibroids — that interfere with the placement or retention of ParaGard
• Have a pelvic infection, such as pelvic inflammatory disease
• Have uterine or cervical cancer
• Have unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Are allergic to any component of ParaGard
• Have a disorder that causes too much copper to accumulate in your liver, brain and other vital organs (Wilson's disease)