Women across the country are concerned over the side effects of Essure procedure, due to the complications they reportedly experience after implantation. Even though the Essure birth control device was considered a breakthrough for permanent female contraception, the amount of injury reports have left many wondering if the device is worth the risk.

The Essure birth control device consists of two metal coils, which are directly implanted into each fallopian tube. Soon after the implantation of the device, the tissue is supposed to swell and prevent sperm to egg fertilization.

The Essure birth control device is currently the only non surgical form of female sterilization, and has been used by thousands of women. Even though the simple treatment of the device is supposed to offer a convenient and low risk alternative to tubal ligation, many women have reported side effects of Essure procedure.

Reports of the device perforating the implant location and migrating out of place has been sited a number of times, along with allergic reaction and total device failure. Overall, the side effects of Essure procedure and the device can range in severity from minor pains to life threatening conditions including:

• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Painful Intercourse
• Cramps
• Vaginal Infection or Discharge
• Rashes
• Allergic Reactions
• Excessive Menstrual Bleeding
• Organ Perforation
• Ectopic Pregnancy
• Pelvic Pain
• Miscarriage

Overview of Essure Side Effects

The Essure birth control device was approved by the FDA in 2002, and has since made Bayer HealthCare millions in profits. Over the years, thousands of injury reports have been submitted to the FDA from women complaining they were not warned against potential Essure complications.

By the end of 2015, the FDA had received over 10,000 Essure injury reports with additional reports causing the agency to review post market injury reports detailing the side effects of Essure procedure. The agency has been contacted by a number of women who want the device taken off the market, claiming the potential side effects of Essure procedure outweigh its benefits.

While the FDA opted to keep the Essure birth control device on the market, the agency did require the product’s label to have a black box warning. The agency also drafted a three page check list of potential side effects of Essure procedure, which was mandated to be included in each Essure birth control implant box.

The agency urged medical professionals to review and sign the checklist, and to go over with the list with the patients before undergoing the Essure implant procedure. While critics of the FDA’s order complain that it cannot force doctors to adhere to their requests, and that it may discourage some doctors from recommending the device.

However opponents of the Essure birth control device are also not happy, as the device was not taken off the market. Even though these warnings do help prevent further Essure incidents, it does not help women who have already been affected by the side effects of Essure procedure.

Women who were injured by Essure complications may be able to file legal action against Bayer HealthCare and should contact an experienced medical device lawyer to determine eligibility.