Paragard® works using just one simple active ingredient—copper. The copper IUD provides effective, hormone-free birth control by creating an environment that prevents sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. This copper IUD mechanism offers long-term pregnancy prevention for up to 10 years.
Paragard works by preventing the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg. The copper wire wrapped around the T-shaped device releases copper ions that are toxic to sperm, effectively immobilizing them before they can reach the egg. This mechanism of action makes Paragard over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most reliable forms of reversible birth control available.
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, but many women find these changes decrease over time. For women seeking birth control without synthetic hormones, Paragard offers a solution that won’t prevent your natural menstrual cycle or stop you from ovulating each month.
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. At first, periods may become heavier and longer with spotting in between.
Did You Know?
Paragard is the only copper IUD that’s been FDA approved for over 30 years.
