Mirena IUD

The Nature of the Device: The Mirena is an intrauterine device (IUD) developed and marketed by Bayer Pharmaceutics Company to prevent pregnancy for up to five years. The t-shaped plastic IUD is 99% effective, far better than oral contraceptives. Like other IUDs, the Mirena works by slowly releasing the birth-control hormone levonorgestrel into the uterus. The device is also approved to treat excessive menstrual bleeding.


The Hazards of the Mirena IUD: Women who use the Mirena or other devices containing levonorgestrel hormone, risk contracting the brain condition pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), sometimes called idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). PTC results from fluid buildup in the brain, which can cause temporary vision loss, neck and shoulder pain, or chronic headaches. The FDA has received over 47,000 reports of dangerous side effects since 2004.

Women using the Mirena have also reported other health problems. Some have become pregnant; some have had ectopic (outside the uterus) pregnancies.

There have been reports of the device’s becoming dislodged, so that it damages the ovaries, uterus, or abdomen. Perforation of the uterine wall has occurred; so has pelvic inflammatory disease; and the device has sometimes become embedded in the abdomen. Those conditions can require corrective surgery.

Health problems associated with the Mirena IUD have led many women to sue Bayer.

To Obtain Legal Relief: Women who have been injured by the Mirena IUD may have valuable legal rights. Attorney Stephen A. Katz is available at (800) 251-3529 for a free consultation, or for legal representation.