The Paragard IUD is a popular birth control option for women who want a long-term, hormone-free solution to prevent pregnancy. It works by using copper, which induces an inflammatory reaction in the uterus that creates a hostile environment for sperm, preventing fertilization. Although the Paragard IUD has been FDA-approved for over 30 years, complications during its removal process have led to numerous health risks for women. These risks have prompted lawsuits against the manufacturers, Teva Pharmaceuticals and CooperSurgical, for failure to warn users about potential dangers.

Paragard IUD Lawsuits – California

The Schenk Law Firm is committed to helping women who have endured severe health complications caused by the Paragard IUD, particularly during the removal process. The Paragard IUD is a non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) made of copper and designed to prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years. Despite its long-standing use as a contraceptive device, many women have reported serious injuries and complications during and after the removal of the IUD. These issues have resulted in thousands of lawsuits, seeking justice for the pain and suffering caused by this medical device.

Paragard IUD Complications During Removal

A major complication arises when the Paragard IUD breaks during removal. The T-arm of the device can fracture, leaving pieces lodged in the uterus or surrounding tissues. In such cases, additional surgeries, including hysteroscopies or laparotomies, may be necessary to remove the fragments. Other potential complications associated with Paragard IUD removal include:

• Uterine perforation: The sharp pieces of the broken IUD can puncture the uterine wall, leading to internal bleeding and severe trauma.
• Infections: The presence of IUD fragments can cause infections, leading to conditions like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in long-term reproductive issues.
• Infertility: Damage to the uterus or fallopian tubes can lead to infertility or difficulties conceiving.
• Ectopic pregnancy: In rare cases, if the IUD moves from its original position, there is an increased risk of an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus​.

Understanding the Paragard Lawsuit and MDL

As the number of lawsuits related to Paragard IUD complications continues to rise, the cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). The MDL allows for the efficient handling of complex cases by consolidating them into one court for pretrial proceedings. The Paragard MDL is located in the Northern District of Georgia, where more than 1,700 lawsuits are currently pending. These cases focus on the failure of Teva Pharmaceuticals and CooperSurgical to adequately warn women about the risks associated with the device’s removal. Unlike class action lawsuits, in which plaintiffs may potentially receive a determined allocation of funds reflecting each plaintiff’s loss, the MDL, however, allows each plaintiff to seek compensation based on the specific damages they have suffered.

Settlement Information for Paragard Lawsuits

Settlements in Paragard IUD lawsuits vary depending on the severity of the injuries sustained by each plaintiff. Women who have suffered from internal bleeding, infections, or fertility issues may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Settlement amounts can range from $10,000 to $400,000 or higher, depending on the individual circumstances of the case. Compensation could include:

• Medical expenses: This covers the costs of surgeries, medical appointments, medications, and any future medical care required as a result of the IUD complications.
• Lost wages: Women who were unable to work due to the physical and emotional impact of their injuries can seek compensation for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages that cover the emotional distress, trauma, and psychological impact of the complications caused by the effects of Paragard IUD’s removal and/or device migration within the uterus.
• Permanent disability: In cases where the injuries have resulted in long-term or permanent disabilities, plaintiffs can seek compensation for the significant impact on their quality of life​.

How Paragard Injuries Happen

There are two primary ways that Paragard IUD injuries occur:

1. Breaking during removal: The most common complication is the T-arm of the device breaking during removal, which can cause fragments to become lodged in the uterus. These fragments can cause internal trauma, infections, and may require invasive surgeries to remove.
2. Device migration: In some cases, the Paragard IUD can move from its intended position within the uterus. This migration can lead to perforation of the uterine wall, organ damage, and in rare cases, ectopic pregnancies. Migration of the device increases the risk of severe reproductive complications​.

Who Qualifies for a Paragard IUD Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one has experienced any of the following complications, you may be eligible to file a Paragard IUD lawsuit involving:

• T-arm breakage during removal, resulting in injury or the need for surgery.
• Uterine perforation or organ trauma caused by broken or fractured IUD fragments.
• Severe infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can escalate to sepsis.
• Infertility or pregnancy complications, including ectopic pregnancies.
• Internal bleeding or life-threatening blood loss related to Paragard IUD complications​.

How The Schenk Law Firm Can Help

We understand the immense pain and suffering caused by defective medical devices like the Paragard IUD. Our legal team is dedicated to holding Teva Pharmaceuticals and CooperSurgical accountable for their negligence. We provide comprehensive legal services, including:

• Case evaluation: We thoroughly review your medical records and evidence to build a strong case.
• Legal representation: Our attorneys will fight to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, whether through a settlement or trial.
• Personalized support: We are here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring that you receive the support and representation you need during this difficult time.

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