If you do conceive while using the Paragard IUD you are at high risk of having an ectopic pregnancy (a condition where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube.). However, as noted by the Mayo Clinic less than 1% of women who use the Paragard IUD become pregnant and the risks remain very low over time. As a result, because the rate of pregnancy is so low for those who use the Paragard IUD, their rate of getting ectopic pregnancy is low than women who are sexually active but do not use contraception.
Additionally, the Paragard IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Finally, as discussed below, there are the risks of experiencing Paragard removal side effects or other Paragard removal symptoms when you decide to have the device removed.