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The overview below reflects general practice. Your own case is fact-specific — a qualified attorney is the only person who can apply these rules to your situation.
The Paragard Litigation at a Glance
The Paragard IUD is a copper intrauterine device manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals (formerly Duramed). Plaintiffs across the United States allege that during routine removal, the device breaks — with copper arms fracturing off and lodging in the uterus, cervix, or surrounding tissue. Retrieval requires additional surgical procedures, including hysteroscopy and, in some cases, hysterectomy. Cases were consolidated in MDL 2974 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia in December 2020.
The Alleged Product Defect
Paragard's original manufacturer represented that the device could be removed easily during a routine office procedure. Plaintiffs allege that in reality, the device's copper arms fracture off during removal with disturbing frequency. Fragments then embed in the uterine wall, cervical canal, or migrate elsewhere. Removal of fragments typically requires:
- Hysteroscopy under sedation.
- D&C (dilation and curettage).
- Laparoscopy in cases where the fragment migrates outside the uterus.
- In severe cases, hysterectomy.
MDL Status and Bellwether Trials
MDL 2974 was formed in December 2020 in the Northern District of Georgia before Judge Leigh Martin May. As of 2026:
- Over 3,000 plaintiff cases consolidated.
- Bellwether trial process has begun.
- Multiple bellwether cases have been selected for early trial.
- Case-specific discovery underway for individual plaintiffs.
What Damages Look Like
Damages in Paragard cases include:
- Additional surgical procedures and associated medical costs.
- Pain and suffering from the fracture and retrieval.
- Emotional distress including fertility concerns.
- In hysterectomy cases: permanent infertility, hormonal changes, extensive medical costs.
How Paragard Cases Fund
Reputable funders underwrite filed Paragard MDL cases with:
- Documented Paragard use.
- Documented breakage at removal.
- Follow-up surgical retrieval records.
- Represented by counsel with cases filed in MDL 2974.
Advance sizes are moderate given the still-developing case value data. See our mass tort funding piece.
Timeline Expectations
MDL timelines are long — bellwether verdicts typically produce settlement matrix negotiations 12–24 months later. Global settlement of Paragard MDL is expected 2027–2029, though individual outcomes vary.
The Bottom Line
The Paragard MDL is a significant active mass tort with growing plaintiff numbers and bellwether trials in progress. Plaintiffs with documented device breakage and surgical retrieval have viable cases. Pre-settlement funding is available for filed cases with appropriate documentation.
At Instabridge Funding, we work with plaintiff attorneys across all fifty states — attorney-founded, non-recourse, and transparently priced. If your case is filed and you would like a fair pre-settlement offer, apply through our portal and your attorney will hear back within one business day.
Frequently asked questions
A copper intrauterine device (IUD) manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals (formerly Duramed), used for long-term reversible contraception.
The device's copper arms break off during removal, requiring additional surgical procedures to retrieve the fragments.
Over 3,000 cases as of 2026, consolidated in MDL 2974 in the Northern District of Georgia.
Yes, if the case is filed in the MDL, represented by counsel, and documented with breakage and retrieval records.
Global settlement is anticipated 2027–2029, though individual case timelines vary.
Additional surgical costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and — in hysterectomy cases — damages for permanent infertility.
No. Any surgical retrieval of Paragard fragments creates a case; hysterectomy cases have higher damage exposure.
Currently Teva Pharmaceuticals; formerly Duramed Pharmaceuticals.
