Most women in Ohio choose what birth control to use based on information about its effectiveness and possible side effects. Unfortunately, some women might not have had all of the necessary information to make an informed choice, leading to potential injuries and — in some instances — even death. As the Food and Drug Administration begins to investigate Bayer’s permanent birth control Essure, it is possible that some victims will proceed with product liability suits.
Essure is a popular alternative to the more involved process of a tubal ligation. Women who use Essure have a device inserted into their fallopian tubes, which acts as a roadblock to any potential fertilization. While supposedly nearly 100 percent effective at preventing fertilization and pregnancy, it is not without its problems. The FDA approved Essure for public use in 2002, and, in 2013, victims of the device began gathering online amid concerns that other women could suffer similar injuries.
Women have also complained about Essure to the FDA, citing serious side effects, some of which were not noted on the label. Most often, reports include complaints about headaches, significant abdominal pain and uncontrollable fluctuations in weight. Unfortunately, for some Essure users the outcome was much worse than a heavier period or fatigue, as 11 deaths have been linked to the device.
The assumption that a medical device or tool used on patients should be as safe as is reasonably possible is not an unreasonable expectation. Anything less can put Ohio patients in potentially vulnerable situations, exposing them to risks that otherwise would not have been present. While the past cannot be undone, a successfully navigated product liability suit can do more than just achieve compensation related to any injuries or damages, it can also help prevent future patients from falling victim to the same injuries.
Source: Yahoo, “Permanent Birth Control Essure Under FDA Review for Reportedly Causing Pain, Depression, and Even Death“, Amy Capetta, June 25, 2015
