The possible Mirena IUD (intrauterine device) birth control side effects continues to grow as rheumatoid arthritis joins the list.

A recent study found that women who used an IUD for birth control have a significantly higher chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Mirena IUD has also been associated with pseudotumor cerebri. 

IUDs are T-shaped plastic implants that are placed directly into the uterus. Mirena, the most popular IUD, also contains copper wire coils. The Mirena IUD is advertised as being hassle free, since it lasts five years and a woman doesn’t have to remember to take a pill everyday.

Mirena IUD side effects, however, have become more apparent. University of Colorado School of Medicine researchers found that women who used Mirena IUD birth control devices may double their risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

The researchers examined the way the IUD influenced blood levels of antibodies that are associated with diabetes. Elevated levels of antibodies to citrullinated protein antigens can indicate if someone may develop rheumatoid arthritis in the future.

The IUD study found that women who used the birth control device may increase their risk of rheumatoid arthritis by 268 percent.

Thousands of adverse events have been reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning Mirena IUD birth control side effects. In addition to IUD rheumatoid arthritis, the “hassle-free” birth control has been associated with many other negative side effects, as well.

Mirena IUD Side Effects: Pseudotumor Cerebri

One of the side effects is pseudotumor cerebri or idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Pseudotumor cerebri is increased pressure in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord and often has the same symptoms as a brain tumor.

The fluid is constantly being produced by the body and absorbed into the bloodstream. Increased pressure, however, prevents optimal absorption and allows the pressure to continue building. It is possible for other problems to arise from this condition.

Side effects of pseudotumor cerebri may include:

• Headaches or migraines
• Ringing in the ears
• Dizziness
• Changes in vision
• Neck stiffness
• Problems walking
• Forgetfulness
• Depression
• Other

There are three tests that can be used to diagnose pseudotumor cerebri. MRI or CT scans may pick up the condition. Spinal taps (where fluid is drawn from the spine) and eye exams may also be used.

Mirena IUD Lawsuits

Thousands of Mirena IUD lawsuits have been filed against Bayer, the manufacturer of Mirena IUD. Specifically, pseudotumor cerebri lawsuits have also been filed by women who allegedly developed the condition after using Mirena IUD.

Mirena IUD lawsuits claim that Bayer did not protect users from this potential health risk.

Other Mirena IUD lawsuits claim that the device moved once it was placed and caused other complications. With rheumatoid arthritis being added to the list of possible side effects, it is possible that more Mirena IUD lawsuits may be filed.