Though Paragard IUDs have been around since the 80s, the birth control device is making news in 2020 because of the number of defective product lawsuits being filed by women across the United States. The lawsuits have all been filed against Teva Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Paragard, and allege that the IUD can break or become dislodged during the removal process, causing serious damage to surrounding organs and tissues.
What is a Paragard IUD?
Designed and manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals, the Paragard IUD is a birth control device that is used to provide long-term birth control for women. Paragard is one of five intrauterine devices available to women in the United States and is the only reported non-hormonal option. It’s also the only IUD that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for more than 30 years.
The IUD itself is comprised of a plastic base wrapped by a copper wire. The cooper produces an inflammatory reaction in the uterus, which interferes with the sperm. According to the manufacturer, the Paragard IUD is designed to provide birth control for up to ten years and must be implanted and removed by a doctor. It is reported to be 99% at preventing pregnancy.
Beyond possible breakage, some listed Paragard side effects include:
- Anemia
- Complete or partial expulsion
- Prolonged menstrual flow
- Menstrual spotting
- Pain and cramping
- Vaginitis
Additionally, studies show that women with copper IUDs are more likely to experience expulsion than those with other types of IUDs.
Am I Eligible to File a Claim?
The lawsuits being filed against Teva claim that they were not warned about possible device breakage as a side effect and say that the company misrepresented the device as safe even if it was actually defective.
If you have been injured by a Paragard IUD, you may be eligible to seek financial compensation for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses. However, each situation is unique, which is why it’s important that you seek legal counsel.
A law firm may take several things into consideration when determining whether or not you’re eligible to file a defective product claim, such as:
- If the device had to be removed earlier than expected
- The reason you decided to use the IUD versus other methods of contraception
- Any complications that occurred during removal
- If hospitalization was needed to treat an infection or perform surgery
- Whether there were warnings issued to you regarding the risks of the IUD
If you were implanted with a Paragard IUD and have developed symptoms or complications such as breakage upon removal, you may be able to file a claim. Other complications can include uterus perforation, pelvic inflammatory disease, excessive bleeding, or complications from an ectopic pregnancy.
Experienced Product Liability Attorneys
At Bertram & Graf, L.L.C., our attorneys have represented many clients and families who have been injured or lost loved ones due to defective medical devices. Though we should expect the FDA to catch any design, manufacturing, or marketing flaws in the products they inspect, sometimes dangerous devices are approved and go on to injure thousands of consumers.
If you’ve suffered from using a defective device, you’re not alone. Give us a call and take advantage of your free consultation so we can learn more about your unique case.
Call us today at (888) 398-2277, or contact us online if you have been injured by a defective product such as an IUD. Bertram & Graf, L.L.C. believes all consumers have a right to expect the products they purchase and use will be safe.