Consumers want to know if the permanent sterilization device Essure is made out of nickel. Many female patients who had this device implanted have reported serious problems and some have had it removed due to the severity of the side effects.

Could a Device Made Out of Nickel Cause Allergic Reactions?

Several years ago, The New York Times published a story about how devices like Fitbit fitness trackers led to a spike in allergic reactions among consumers. Undiagnosed or unknown nickel allergies could have been to blame.

Essure has two sets of small, metal coils that are inserted into the cervix and vagina through the fallopian tubes. A nickel allergy could occur once the device is implanted. The coils inside the metal Essure sterilization device contain nickel, which may pose a serious concern for women who have a sensitivity or are allergic to the metal.

As of Dec. 31, 2018, drug-maker Bayer stopped selling the device in the United States, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

What are Nickel Allergies?

Nickel allergies have been on the rise in recent years primarily due to widespread use of electronic devices such as tablets, smartphones and fitness trackers. Some 20 percent of the population is believed to have a nickel allergy, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Nickel allergies can occur after an initial, or even prolonged exposure to the metal. Some patients who received Essure permanent birth control might experience their first reaction to a nickel allergy after having the device implanted. Others might begin to notice problems months or even years later.

Is the Essure Device Safe?

Plenty of women have come forward and filed adverse event reports with the FDA  after experiencing complications from Essure. Others have taken legal action or created online support groups, including a Facebook group with more than 36,000 members.

The number of lawsuits filed against Essure’s manufacturer has grown significantly in recent years, with myriad claims of serious injury resulting from the device. Most of this litigation alleges that the manufacturer knew about the possible problems but continued to market it as a safe option for permanent birth control anyway.

What to Do If I Believe I Have Essure Problems?

If you believe you are having issues resulting from the implantation of Essure in the past, and believe that you may have a nickel allergy aggravated by this device, you need to speak with your physician as soon as possible. Some patients have already filed lawsuits in an attempt to hold Bayer accountable.