Nuvaring is a relatively new form of vaginal birth control. It basically contains some of the same synthetic hormones that are in the pill, but it is placed in the vagina once a month, where it releases these hormones which are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. In theory, this sounds like an excellent idea because it requires lower doses of hormones. In actuality, though, this particular birth control option uses some hormones that are thought to increase the Nuvaring blood clot risk.
Many doctors will prescribe this and other birth control medications despite the risk of blood clots. They may avoid giving hormonal contraceptives to women with a history of clotting problems or to women who smoke, but since all hormone-based birth control carry a certain amount of blood clot risk, they won’t think twice before writing a prescription for a healthy woman with no history of blood clots. However, this form of birth control can still cause blood clots even in the healthiest of women.
What Is a Blood Clot?
Basically, Nuvaring side effects involving a blood clot is likely to form in the legs. This is known as a thrombi, and it’s essentially a gathering of blood cells that shouldn’t be there. In the legs, these clots can be painful and annoying, but they aren’t likely to cause major problems there unless they get very large. Sometimes, though, a muscle contraction can cause a clot to break off and travel through the veins to other parts of the body, where it can wreak havoc. Here are just a few of the possible side effects that you might see from blood clots. Please contact us for a free consultation from a Nuvaring lawyer if you have suffered from blood clots while using Nuvaring.
Stroke: When a blood clot lodges itself somewhere in the brain, it can cause oxygen to be cut off from part of the brain for a time. This can result in classic stroke symptoms, including paralysis, memory loss, and loss of motor skills.
Pulmonary Embolism: This is when a clot gets lodged in one of the major veins of the lungs. When this happens, oxygen supply to the whole body is cut off. An embolism could result in trouble breathing or even sudden death if it thoroughly blocks the blood supply. Because blood supply is vital to the support of the brain and other organs, such an embolism an also result in a variety of other long-lasting effects.
Vision and Speech Problems: If a mini stroke affects only one part of the brain, Nuvaring side effects might cause problems with vision and speech. A blood clot that affects only part of the brain may not result in all the classic stroke symptoms but can still have dire consequences for all involved.
What to Do about Nuvaring Side Effects
If you are using Nuvaring or know someone who is, be especially alert for signs and symptoms of blood clotting problems. If you or someone you love has already experienced these symptoms and is suffering from life-long injuries because of the birth control ring, it may be time to look at your legal options, including filing a Nuvaring lawsuit. Many women affected by blood clots have done so, and Nuvaring lawsuit litigation is currently ongoing.
