Mirena Hormonal IUD-Birth Control Method

The Mirena Intrauterine Device (IUD) is the only hormonal IUD that has received Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approval. It is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy for up to five years. The T-shaped plastic frame releases a kind of progestin, which thickens the cervical mucus to prevent fertilization of an egg.  It thins the uterine lining and suppresses, in part, ovulation. It is interesting to note that Bayer, the manufacturer of the Mirena intrauterine device, claims they are not really sure how the device really works.

It is estimated that 8.5 percent of women in the United States use a long term, reversible method of birth control–like the Mirena intrauterine device. It can be much more convenient than taking oral contraceptives. In addition, it’s claimed to have been proven to be effective. Less than one percent of women who use this method of birth control will get pregnant while using Mirena.

Insertion and Removal

Using an applicator tube, your health care provider will insert the IUD into your uterus through the cervical canal. The applicator tube is removed and the IUD will stay in place. The Mirena intrauterine device can remain for up to five years. It may be removed at any time, however. Removal is usually fairly simple, with the only affect being cramping and light bleeding. Occasionally, the intrauterine device may become embedded in the uterine wall. In that case, removal by other means will be necessary.

Side Effects

While it is used by millions of women, and is claimed to be effective, there are serious side effects and complications that can develop. These include the following:

• Migration of the device to areas outside of the uterus
• Uterine wall perforation
• Cervix perforation
• Intestinal perforation
• Expulsion of the intrauterine device
• Intestinal obstruction
• Adjacent area erosion (such as the vagina)
• Peritonitis
• Fertility problems
• Organ problems
• Miscarriage
• Ectopic Pregnancy
• PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease)
• Infection
• Adhesions and internal scarring
• Hysterectomy
• Surgical complications following removal of the IUD

According to the Federal Drug Administration, there have been over 45,000 reports of adverse affects, including expulsion of the intrauterine device, dislocation, and excessive vaginal bleeding. Over six percent of those women who filed complaints required surgery to correct the side effects associated with the Mirena intrauterine device.

Bayer has had numerous lawsuits filed against them. The lawsuits allege Bayer is designing and producing a product that is defective and they failed to adequately warn the physicians and the women of America about the dangerous side effects.  Pending lawsuits claim the following:

• Bayer understated the complications as “uncommon”
• The manufacturer, Bayer, misrepresented the benefits of Mirena
• There was a failure to warn of dangerous side effects
• Bayer engaged in deceptive marketing
• Bayer Failed to provide adequate warnings
• Bayer concealed harmful side effects
• Bayer breached the implied and express warranties given on the product

Women who have had such complications (like migration of the device, or perforation of the uterus) might want to consider filing a claim for medical expense reimbursement, wage loss and compensation for other physical damages to various organs, sterility, and pain and suffering.

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