If you or a loved one suffered side effects or injuries after receiving an Essure implant, know that a qualified injury attorney is available to help you understand your options and rights, as well as work with you to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. The side effects from Essure can be dangerous and even life-threatening in severe scenarios, and for this reason, it is imperative that patients receive the medical treatment they are entitled to. Read on to learn more about how a professional Essure lawyer could make a difference in your life.
Essure is an implantable birth control device intended to be a permanent form of birth control. Essure is made of two small coils that are inserted into the vagina and cervix and then placed into the fallopian tubes. Subsequently, the body develops a barrier of scar tissue which prevents any sperm from reaching an egg, thereby preventing pregnancy. The procedure does not require a surgical incision or anesthesia, and can typically be done as an outpatient procedure.
However, while this device is proven to be effective in preventing pregnancy, consumers should be aware of the risks associated with this device. Women across the country have filed numerous lawsuits claiming that they suffered injuries from the device and received no warning of its potential side effects. According to reports, Bayer—the manufacturers of Essure—reported $413 million in losses connected to the device in 2016, largely due to litigation.
ESSURE SIDE EFFECTS
Essure is intended to provide women with a permanent form of birth control. It does not contain or release any hormones and is known to be one of the most effective forms of birth control currently available. However, while Essure may be one of the most effective devices on the market to prevent pregnancy, it also comes with both short-term and long-term side effects. Women have reported that during and immediately after implantation of the device, they experienced mild to moderate pain. In addition, some women have reported vaginal bleeding, vomiting, dizziness, and pelvic pain following the procedure. Long-term risks associated with Essure include:
- Unintended pregnancy
- Device migration
- Perforation of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Hair loss
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle weakness
One of the major risks associated with this device is an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an egg is fertilized outside of the uterus. This can be a life-threatening condition that requires medical intervention and often surgery. Know that a distinguished product liability attorney can assist in recovering injury damages from Essure’s manufacturer if an individual experiences any of these consequences.
FDA UPDATES ON ESSURE
Since the FDA first approved Essure in 2002, the FDA has subsequently released several updates and additional requirements on Essure. In 2011, the FDA required updated physician labeling to warn for a contraindication related to nickel, with additional updates to both patient and physician labeling in 2012 to reflect the results of a five-year study on the drug. In 2013, the FDA required updated patient labeling to include risks of chronic pain and device migration.
In October 2016, the FDA issued a final guidance intended to alleviate some of the confusion associated with devices such as Essure and to ensure that patients receive enough information before using this device. The FDA has also stated that they will continue to monitor this device for safety.
TURN TO A TRUSTED ESSURE LAWYER
Essure’s manufacturer has been the subject of several lawsuits claiming that they knew of the potential side effects and risks of this device and failed to inform the public, leading to serious injuries and even death. In previous litigation, plaintiffs successfully received compensation to cover their medical expenses, lost wages, disability, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one have suffered any of these consequences due to Essure, an experienced Essure lawyer could discuss your case with you, review your symptoms, discuss your legal options, and work towards recovering compensation for your injuries and losses. Consider reaching out to a dedicated Essure lawyer today to schedule your initial consultation.