Paragard Removal Techniques

The ParaGard intra-uterine contraceptive device is a T-shaped object that is made from a plastic frame that is surrounded by coiled copper and is inserted directly into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Inserted by a physician in a simple in-office procedure, it stays in place for up to 10 years. After a 10-year expiry or for any other reason at the patient's request, it can be removed by a gynecologist of family practitioner with a relatively painless procedure performed at the doctor's office.

Removal of ParaGard IUD

• In most cases of ParaGard IUD removal, the procedure is very simple and quick. When the physician inserts the ParaGard IUD, small strings are left attached to the device and hang just outside the cervix. These strings prove to be the most effective and simple method for IUD removal.

  To remove the IUD, the physician will open your vaginal opening with a speculum, or a plastic or metal device used to allow the physician to visualize your cervix and vaginal canal. Once he visualizes the strings that are hanging outside of the cervix, he can gently tug on them to facilitate removal of the IUD. As he tugs, the arms that form the horizontal line on the "T" will fold upwards. As they fold up, the device takes on the shape of a vertical line, which is easily tugged and pulled through the cervical os, or opening of the cervix.

  Once the device is removed, the doctor will examine it to make sure it is complete.

What to Expect During and After Removal

• During removal of the IUD, you pay experience some minor discomfort. This is usually very mild. Light spotting can occur for several hours to several days after removal. This is typically mild and resolves without incident.

  Fertility is restored immediately after the ParaGard IUD is removed. Unlike other forms of contraception, including other types of IUDs, ParaGard does not contain hormones, and therefore does not alter your ovulation or menstrual cycle. You are able to get pregnant, providing that there are no other reasons you would be infertile, as soon as your IUD is removed.

  If you do not want to get pregnant after your ParaGard IUD is removed, you must take measures to assure that you do not become pregnant. Another form of birth control, such as pills, condoms or a vaginal ring, must be used to prevent pregnancy after the IUD is removed.

Embeddment

• In rare instances, the ParaGard IUD may become embedded in uterine tissue, which may necessitate the need for a surgical removal of the device. This is rare, but it does happen on infrequent occasion.

  An instrument called a hysteroscope, which features a tiny lighted camera, hinged arms and a cautery device, is often used to locate and remove a deeply-embedded IUD from the uterus. The device is usually inserted via the vagina and cervix into the uterus. In a relatively quick procedure, the physician frees the ParaGard IUD from the uterine wall and removes it through the vagina. A local anesthesia may be used prior to the procedure.

  Some minor discomfort and vaginal bleeding may occur. Your doctor will advise you on when you can resume sexual activities and tampon usage.