Experts Warn About the Dangers of Popular Birth Control Methods
Healthcare experts in the United Kingdom last month became the latest to warn that a popular form of birth control might present dangers to women.
The recent warning was targeted at combination oral contraceptives like Yasmin and Yaz that use the progestin hormone drospirenone, saying they could increase blood clot risks.
However, studies show women using NuvaRing contraceptive rings, as well as the Mirena IUD, might also be at risk of injury.
Numerous studies have linked fourth generation birth control pills like Yaz, Yasmin, Ocella and Gianvi with blood clots. These can lead to serious conditions including deep vein thrombosis, stroke and pulmonary embolism.
In the U.S., more than 20,000 women have reported blood clot-type injuries to the FDA after using the drugs, and thousands have joined a Yaz lawsuit against drug maker Bayer.
Currently, Bayer is spending around $1.7 billion to compensate those injured, and will continue to review new claims. Those affected should speak with a lawyer to learn their options.
The popular vaginal ring contraceptive insert NuvaRing has also been tied to blood clots. In 2012, studies from Europe showed those using the devices could face even greater risks of blood clots than those taking traditional birth control pills. Litigation for NuvaRing is also underway.
Finally, the Mirena IUD contraceptive has also been the subject of controversy over patient injury. Mirena is inserted by a doctor and is supposed to provide up to 5 years of pregnancy prevention. However, many have experienced uterus perforation or device migration.
So far, more than 2,000 women have reported IUD migration or uterine perforation injuries after receiving a Mirena IUD. In many cases, patients must undergo invasive surgery to remove the devices and repair damaged organs in the abdomen.
Lawyers continue to help those who underwent surgery to address Mirena IUD perforation file lawsuits in a special federal Mirena court. Anyone affected should learn their options as soon as possible.
Other drugs and devices in the news:
The $1.1 billion settlement over recalled Philips Respironics sleep apnea machines moved into its final distribution phase in January 2026. Roughly 59,000 claims have been filed by people who say the degrading sound-abatement foam in those devices injured them, and payments are going out on a rolling basis as liens clear.
Elmiron is a mild blood-thinner drug that has been around since 1996 and is prescribed to treat bladder pain or inflammation, a condition called interstitial cystitis.