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Mirena IUD
Mirena IUD labels itself 99 percent effective and as “the ideal birth control for busy mothers”. This device remains in the place for up to five years, and women do not have to remember to take a pill every day.
The device is inserted in a health care provider’s office. The doctor must first cleanse the vagina and cervix with an antiseptic wash before placing the IUD in the cervical canal using a special tool. Once the device is in place, the doctor will instruct you on how to check the placement strings to make sure they are still in the right position. During the procedure women report feeling dizzy, faint, nauseas, and a slowing heart rate.
The primary use of Mirena IUD is to prevent pregnancies. The device releases a type of progestin that thickens the cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the unfertilized egg. The device also partially suppresses ovulation, and it is the only hormonal IUD that has been approved by the FDA.
There are several reasons why Mirena IUD is so popular among women. It is convenient, as you do not have to remember to take a daily birth control pill. It can remain in place for up to five years, and it reduces menstrual bleeding after three to six months of use. The device also reduces menstrual pain, and it can also be used to relieve the pain from endometriosis. Mirena IUD does not carry the risks associated with estrogen-based birth control. Women can use the device while breastfeeding. Also, researchers believe it may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including cervical cancer.
Bayer, the device’s manufacturer, has made it very clear that not all women should use Mirena IUD. The device is not designed for women who have experienced any of the following:
- Ectopic Pregnancy
- Breast Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
- Liver Disease
- Pelvic Inflammation
- Uterine Abnormalities, such as fibroids
Women who become pregnant while using the Mirena IUD have a higher risk for ectopic pregnancy. It is a rare side effect, and a woman may not even realize the danger she is in. An ectopic pregnancy is most likely to occur within the first year of use, and the manufacturer reports that about half of the pregnancies that occur with this device will be ectopic. In this type of pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants into the fallopian tube, cervix, ovaries, or even the abdomen. As the egg develops it damages the surrounding tissue, resulting in internal hemorrhaging that could seriously injure or kill the mother.
Women using Mirena must know the warning signs of an ectopic pregnancy because it is possible to become pregnant while using this device and not know. Serious warning signs for ectopic pregnancy include pain in the lower abdomen or during urination, inflammation of the lower abdomen, and vaginal bleeding outside of the menstrual cycle are all serious warning signs. These symptoms can be mistaken for appendicitis, gastrointestinal disorders, urinary system complications, and pelvic inflammatory disease. The only way to save the mother’s life is surgical termination of the pregnancy. It is even possible to save the pregnancy with modern technology. The pregnancy may be resolved with methotrexate if it is discovered before it ruptures. Warnings signs of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy include low blood pressure, severe pain in the abdomen, intense pressure on the rectum, and fainting.
Although ectopic pregnancies are extremely dangerous, the biggest risk of the Mirena device is perforation of the uterus. If the uterus is damaged and a hole is created, the device can migrate through the body and damage the lower abdominal area, bladder, or intestines. An IUD that has perforated the uterus may require surgery to remove it. Other symptoms of a perforated uterus include:
- Nausea -Trouble breathing
- Vomiting -Low blood pressure
- Chills -Bleeding
- Fever -Severe lower abdominal pain
- Rapid heartbeat -Bruising
- Bloody stools
- Changes in bowel movements
Perforation of the uterus is considered a medical emergency, and irreparable organ damage can occur. The damage can lead to infertility, serious infections, and death. The risk of uterine perforation is highest if the woman has never been pregnant, has heavy periods and severe menstrual pains, is younger than age 20, has previously expelled an IUD, or had Mirena IUD put in place immediately following a live birth or abortion. Other side effects of Mirena IUD include:
- Headaches -Weight gain
- Acne -Ovarian cysts
- Breast tenderness -Abdominal pain
- Breakthrough bleeding
- Absence of periods
- Mood changes
Women are not always aware of the risks before they begin using Mirena IUD. In 2009, the FDA openly reprimanded Bayer for understating the risks and exaggerating the benefits of using this device. Between 1997 and 2012 nearly 46,000 women experienced serious side effects as a result of Mirena use. In 2010 Canadian officials issued warnings to health care providers about the danger of perforations. Lawsuits are increasing across the United States as women and their families seek to hold Bayer responsible for damages caused by using Mirena IUD. Individuals are holding Bayer accountable for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other complications from using Mirena IUD. People who have been harmed by this device are encouraged to speak with legal professionals to review their rights and determine what their legal options are. If you or someone you know has been injured b using Mirena IUD call John Michael Bailey Attorney at Law right away.
Sources
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/definition/prc-20012867
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/why-its-done/prc-20012867
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/why-its-done/prc-20012867
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/risks/prc-20012867
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/mirena/basics/what-you-can-expect/prc-20012867
http://www.drugdangers.com/mirena/organ-perforation.htm
http://www.drugdangers.com/mirena/ectopic-pregnancy.htm
http://floridamedicalmalpracticelaws.com/mirena-iud-complications-and-lawsuits/
