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How do I check the threads of the Paragard® IUD?



You should check that Paragard is in the right place by feeling the threads once a month. Your healthcare provider should teach you how to do this during your placement appointment.

  1. Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.

  2. Find a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet or squatting.

  3. Reach up to the top of your vagina with clean fingers to feel the 2 threads. Do not pull on the threads.

  4. The threads should feel like thin fishing line and should extend about 1-2 inches from your cervix.

If you feel changes in the length of the threads, you cannot feel the threads, or you can feel any other part of Paragard other than the threads, Paragard may not be in the right place and may not prevent pregnancy. If this happens, use back-up birth control and call your healthcare provider right away.

Fingers checking Paragard threads

Learn More About Paragard

What to Expect Still have questions?

Paragard is a hormone-free IUD (intrauterine device) that prevents pregnancy for up to 10 years using copper.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

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  • Don't use Paragard if you are or may be pregnant, have fibroids, a pelvic infection including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), get infections easily, certain cancers, unexplained bleeding, Wilson's disease, or a copper allergy. IUDs, including Paragard, have been associated with an increased risk of PID.