Paragard works using just 1 simple active ingredient—copper.

Paragard works by preventing the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg and may also prevent implantation.

Because Paragard is hormone free, it won’t prevent your natural menstrual cycle or stop you from ovulating each month. At first, periods may become heavier and longer with spotting in between.

Paragard prevents the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg and may also prevent implantation.

Birth Control 101

How Birth Control Works

Hormonal Birth Control

Some hormonal birth control methods work by altering a woman’s natural menstrual cycle and stop the body from ovulating each month.

Non-Hormonal Birth Control

Non-hormonal birth control methods won’t prevent a woman’s natural menstrual cycle or stop the body from ovulating each month.

Did You Know?

Paragard is the only copper IUD that’s been FDA approved for over 30 years.

See if Paragard Could be right for you
Jump to Important Safety Information Important Safety Information
  • 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. Continue reading
  • Pregnancy with Paragard is rare but can be life threatening and cause infertility or loss of pregnancy. Continue reading