Unlike typical contraceptives that are administered orally, Mirena (generic: levonorgestrel) is indicated for intrauterine contraception for up to five years. Subsequently, it is placed in the uterus where it releases hormones that assist in the prevention of pregnancy. Of significant concern, however, are recent reports that suggest the use of Mirena may coincide with the development of serious complications. Women who have opted for Mirena treatment may significantly increase their risk of causing serious damage to their uterus in the form of perforation.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Mirena, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Mirena Lawsuit Overview
While levonorgestrel, the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in many contraceptives was developed in 1990, it was not applied to Mirena until 2000. Subsequently, Mirena, the product of Bayer Healthcare, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on December 6, 2000. Immediately upon its release, Mirena was indicated for intrauterine contraception for up to 5 years. Mirena is also indicated for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding in women who choose to use intrauterine contraception as their method of contraception.
Levonorgestrel is in a class of medications called progestins. It works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm (male reproductive cells). It also may work by changing the lining of the uterus (womb) to prevent development of a pregnancy.
When used as directed, Mirena has proven to be as high as 99% effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies. However, recent reports suggest that the use of Mirena may coincide with the development of serious complications. Women who have opted for Mirena treatment may significantly increase their risk of causing serious damage to their uterus in the form of perforation. The device may migrate from its original position after being inserted, perforating the uterus or embedding itself in the uterus. Mirena may also migrate outside the uterine cavity and cause adhesions or scarring that can lead to infertility. Depending on the damage caused, affected women may require a complete hysterectomy, and more serious complications could result in death. Due to the rate and severity in which these incidents may occur, contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.), LLP to see if you qualify for a free Mirena lawsuit evaluation.
Mirena Side Effects
Mirena lawsuits are currently evaluating the link between the contraceptive and the development of the following side effects:
- Abscesses
- Embedment in the uterus
- Erosion of adjacent areas such as the vagina
- Infertility /li>
- Inflammation of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and internal organs (Peritonitis)
- Intestinal perforations or obstruction
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
- Perforation of the uterus
Perforation of the Uterus
Due to the application of an inter-uterine device, there are unique risks associated with Mirena’s insertion. The device may migrate from its original position after being inserted, perforating the uterus or embedding itself in the uterus. In both instances, a doctor must locate and surgically remove the device. Depending on the resulting damage, affected women may require a complete hysterectomy, and more serious complications could result in death.
Uterine perforation is a potential complication of any IUD. It may be associated with injury to surrounding blood vessels or viscera such as the bladder or intestine. If not diagnosed at the time of the procedure it can result in massive hemorrhage or sepsis. Risk factors include cervical stenosis during trans-cervical procedures or decreased strength of the myometrial wall as in pregnancy or menopause.
Mirena Lawsuit
Due to the rate and severity in which adverse incidents may occur, Bayer is seeking to centralize Mirena lawsuits to consolidate the current litigation. Subsequently, there are 16 Mirena lawsuits that are currently pending in a New Jersey state court, accusing Bayer of failing to adequately warn healthcare providers and consumers about the serious side effects of Mirena. Court documents reveal a total of 24 plaintiffs who all allege that they were injured by Mirena devices.
Do I Have a Mirena Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Mirena lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Mirena, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.