NuvaRing is a combination hormonal vaginal ring that provides women with progestin and estrogen over a three week period. However, the device has been linked to a dozen deaths and many injuries, which is why consumer advocate groups say that it should be taken off the market.

What is NuvaRing?

NuvaRing is a flexible, plastic contraceptive ring that delivers doses of progestin (etonogestrel) and estrogen (ethinyl estrdiol) over a three week period to prevent ovulation and pregnancy. It is not worn during the fourth, menstrual week.

The device, manufactured by Organon USA (which was purchased by pharmaceutical giant Schering Plough in November of 2007), was first approved in Europe and received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2001. It is estimated that between one and two million women use the device worldwide.

NuvaRing’s popularity skyrocketed because it is supposed to deliver less estrogen than other methods of birth control such as Johnson & Johnson’s Ortho-Evra patch, minimize common side effects and only requires use once per month as opposed to taking a daily pill. However, the device has not been without its controversy…

What are the dangers of NuvaRing?

Consumer advocate groups say that NuvaRing is dangerous and potentially lethal for many women. Studies conducted in 2002 reported that nearly 15% of NuvaRing users had to discontinue use after experiencing adverse side effects such as vaginitis, sinusitis and upper respiratory tract infections.

Since then, nearly a dozen deaths have been reported due to users developing venous thrombosis (blood clots), strokes, heart attacks and breast cancer. In fact, a lawsuit was filed against the company earlier this year by a New Jersey man who allegedly died overnight due to a blood clot caused by NuvaRing use. Consumer advocate groups say that Organon / Schering Plough knew about these dangers, but failed to disclose them or warn consumers. Several groups have called upon the FDA to remove NuvaRing from the market.

If you’ve been injured due to NuvaRing use, contact an attorney whose practice focuses in this area of the law. Consultations are strictly confidential and without any obligation or charge. To contact a qualified attorney, please click here. We may be able to help.