Since 2007, Ob-gyn Dr. Michael Fields has been documenting the complaints of women who have used the birth control implant, Essure. Over 5,000 women have filed grievances, which have been logged into a national database.
As a result of these complaints and an investigation by the Food & Drug Administration, Essure will now be required to have a black box warning label. A black box warning label signifies that medical studies indicate the device carries a significant risk.
The implantable birth control device is a blended titanium-nickel device that was designed to prevent pregnancy by safely creating scar tissue in a woman's fallopian tubes over time. It was created by Bayer in 2002.
The device has been shown to cause cramps, abnormal bleeding and pain during intercourse. However, a significant portion of the population has also experienced side effects as a result of the nickel in the product. Women have also reported other severe complications like device migration, organ perforation and even accidental pregnancies.
In Tennessee, a local woman who received an Essure implant later suffered three strokes in addition to fatigue and lack of energy. For the past seven years, another woman reportedly suffered an array of medical issues including back pain, pelvic pain and hair loss. After ruling out everything else, she finally realized Essure was at the root of her problems.
Many women who were implanted with the Essure birth control device have filed lawsuits for their injuries, illness and mental anguish.
Some of the other health issues with Essure include:
- Skin changes
- Severe cramps
- Abnormal bleeding
- Painful intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Hair loss
- Back pain
- Fatigue, including chronic fatigue syndrome
- Memory loss
- Stroke
- Miscarriage
- Increased risk of pregnancy
- Ectopic pregnancy
Currently, the FDA has required Bayer to perform a study over the next three years to assess potential risks. Bayer released a statement noting that it will continue to work closely with the FDA to support the safe and effective use of the birth control device.
If you have suffered health issues due to the birth control implant Essure, you may be entitled to compensation. The class action attorneys at Greg Coleman have helped victims of dangerous drugs and medical devices obtain millions in compensation and can help you too. Contact a Knoxville personal injury attorney from our firm today if you have been the victim of a defective or dangerous medical product.
Call (865) 247-0080 or fill out a Free Case Evaluation.
