The NuvaRing birth control device (sometimes misspelled as Nuva Ring or Newva Ring) is a contraceptive that prevents pregnancy by releasing synthetic forms of estrogen and progestin into the blood stream. The hormones suppress ovulation, but also thicken the blood in the body, which raises the risks of stroke and other serious and potentially deadly side effects, including, but not limited to:
- Blood clot
- DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
- Abnormal bleeding
- Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung)
- Heart attack
- Increased incidence of breast cancer
- Benign liver tumors which may rupture
- Depression
- Anxiety
Introduced in 2002 by pharmaceutical maker Organon, a division of Schering-Plough Corporation, NuvaRing has been widely prescribed in the United States. About 7.5 million prescriptions were written in 2009 alone. NuvaRing lawsuits linked to adverse health effects and fatalities already have been filed.
Symptoms of NuvaRing health problems include:
- Chest pain or pain in the lower leg
- Severe abdominal pain
- Ankle swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Vomiting
- Sudden onset of fever
- Headache
- Vision problems
NuvaRing is a ring inserted into the vagina and taken out after three weeks. The device releases continual dosage of hormones that are absorbed into bloodstream. The ring is then removed for a week before a new ring is inserted.
NuvaRing is a third-generation contraceptive. (Most birth control pills are second-generation contraceptives). These third-generation contraceptives include a new combination of hormones intended to reduce unwanted side effects. However, they may have a risk of blood clots and stroke that is twice as high as the risk associated with the second-generation contraceptives.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not taken any action on banning NuvaRing or other third-generation contraceptives, despite a petition by a nonprofit advocate group called Public Citizen to do so.
If you or a loved one has been injured after using NuvaRing, an experienced attorney at Castle Law Office may b--e able to help you. Contact our attorneys today for a free and confidential consultation. Or call us at 816-842-7100 to speak with a lawyer now.
