The Paragard IUD, a non-hormonal birth control device, has been extensively used by women since its FDA approval in 1984. Drugwatch’s blog post states that in the United States, there are five types of intrauterine devices available, and Paragard is the sole option that does not use hormones.
However, the device has been linked to serious health risks, including complications during and after removal, and in some cases, perforation of the uterus. As a result, Teva Pharmaceuticals, the company that made the device, has been the target of several lawsuits.
In this article, we will discuss the risks associated with Paragard IUD and the legal action being taken by women to advocate for their health and safety.
Understanding Paragard IUD and Its Risks
A Paragard IUD is a tiny, T-shaped copper device that a healthcare professional inserts into the uterus to prevent conception. It inhibits conception by causing an inflammatory response that is harmful to sperm.
As per a Healthline article, IUDs are a popular choice due to their high effectiveness. The post highlights that Copper IUDs are particularly efficient at preventing unintended pregnancies, with a success rate of over 99 percent in the first year of use. Even after ten years of use, their effectiveness remains high at around 98 percent.
But while the device is marketed as reliable and efficient, it is not without risks.
Complications During and After Removal:
The removal process of the Paragard IUD can be difficult and painful for some women, and in some cases, the device can become embedded in the uterine wall, making removal impossible without surgery. Some women have reported severe pain, bleeding, and infection following the removal of the device.
Perforation of the Uterus:
One of the most serious risks associated with Paragard IUD is the perforation of the uterus. This can occur during the insertion or removal of the device and can lead to serious complications, including severe pain, infection, and damage to other organs.
Legal Action
Teva Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of the Paragard IUD, is facing a number of lawsuits from women who have suffered serious injuries as a result of using the device. These lawsuits allege that Teva Pharmaceuticals failed to adequately warn women about the risks associated with the device and that the company was negligent in designing and manufacturing the device.
In the pursuit of legal action, women who have suffered injuries as a result of using the Paragard IUD have sought the assistance of personal injury law firms to assist them with filing a Paragard lawsuit. TorHoerman Law, LLC and other personal injury law firms have taken on these cases and are working to secure compensation for their clients.
In addition to the lawsuits filed by individual women, there are also class action lawsuits against Teva Pharmaceuticals related to the Paragard IUD. These lawsuits allege that the company’s actions have harmed a large group of people, and seek to represent all individuals who have been injured as a result of using the device.
Advocating for Women’s Health
The lawsuits against Teva Pharmaceuticals are not only seeking compensation for women who have suffered injuries as a result of using the Paragard IUD, but they are also advocating for women’s health and safety. By holding manufacturers accountable for the safety and effectiveness of their products, women can make informed decisions about their healthcare and can trust that the devices they use are safe and effective.
In addition to legal action, women can also advocate for their health by being informed about the risks associated with the Paragard IUD and other birth control options. Women should talk to their doctors about the best birth control method for them based on their specific health preferences and needs.
A Forbes article reports that a Paragard multidistrict litigation (MDL) was established in 2022, with about 1,314 plaintiffs as of mid-August 2022. The case is progressing slowly, but a significant development occurred in July 2022 when the judge overseeing the MDL requested plaintiffs to submit specific discovery documents, which is an essential step in advancing the case.
Conclusion
The Paragard IUD has been a common choice for women as birth control, but the potential dangers cannot be dismissed. Women who have experienced harm from the device are pursuing legal action to make Teva Pharmaceuticals accountable and advocate for their health and safety.
The lawsuits aim to not only get compensation for those affected but also encourage manufacturers to prioritize the safety and efficiency of their products. Women should be informed of the hazards linked to birth control options and collaborate with their healthcare providers to identify the most appropriate option for their particular needs.