Paragard
The ParaGard® T 380A intrauterine copper contraceptive (IUC) is a T-shaped device, measuring 32 mm horizontally and 36 mm vertically with a 3-mm–diameter bulb at the tip of the vertical stem.1
A monofilament polyethylene thread is tied through the tip, resulting in 2 white threads, each at least 10.5 cm in length, to aid in detection and removal of the device. The T-frame is made of polyethylene, with barium sulfate to aid in detecting the device under x-ray. ParaGard® contains approximately 176 mg of copper wire coiled along the vertical stem and a
68.7-mg copper collar on each side of the horizontal arm. The total exposed copper surface area is 380 mm2 ± 23 mm2.1
Hormone-free ParaGard® is believed to work primarily by preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. It may also prevent the egg from attaching to the uterus. The contraceptive effectiveness of ParaGard® is enhanced by the continuous release of copper into the uterine cavity. ParaGard® is indicated for intrauterine contraception for 2, 5, even up to 10 years, but patients may have it removed any time before then, depending on their needs and family planning goals.1
Reference: 1. ParaGard® [package insert]. Sellersville, PA: Teva Women’s Health, Inc; 2011.
No component of ParaGard® or its packaging contains latex.1
ParaGard® is packaged with a placement tube and a solid white stabilizing rod in a pouch that is then sterilized. A moveable flange on the placement tube aids in gauging the depth of placement through the cervical canal and into the uterine cavity.1
*All Contents from Paragard.com for Promotional Use ONLY. No copyright infringement intended.