Risks Associated with Intrauterine Devices

 Posted on August 29, 2014 in Defective Medical Devices

Bayer Healthcare Pharmaceuticals, a manufacturer of Mirena Intrauterine Devices (IUD) birth control, has faced several lawsuits in recent years for alleged complications that arise from having used the device. Earlier this month, Mirena made headlines in Bergen County, New Jersey, where nearly 1,000 new lawsuits were filed to date against the manufacturer. The lawsuits allege serious injuries due to “spontaneous migration of the IUD” in those who had the device implanted. Noted injuries include “uterine perforations, organ damage, scarring, and infertility.” There are an additional 600 similar lawsuits pending in southern New York.

An intrauterine device is a long-term contraceptive that is implanted into a woman's uterus. It can only be implanted by a certified medical provider, and has been in use since it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000. It was not until nine years later that the device was approved for use in women with extreme heavy menstrual bleeding. That same year, however, the FDA warned Bayer that their promotion of the intrauterine device did not adequately warn patients of the risks and overstated the benefits of using this type of birth control.

According to WebMD, disadvantages of the hormonal intrauterine device include the increased possibilities of ovarian cysts. These are noncancerous (benign) and tend to go away without the assistance of a medical professional. There are also hormonal side effects to a hormonal intrauterine device, which are similar to those experienced by women who use birth control pills. These can include acne, headaches, mood swings, and breast tenderness. Unlike many women who take birth control pills report, however, side effects such as these experienced by women who have a hormonal intrauterine device tend to go away after the first few months of use.

If you have experienced negative or dangerous side effects due to an intrauterine device, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact an Arlington Heights defective medical device attorney today.