Contraceptive methods over the years have evolved as a result of medical advancements to cater to the well-being of women. These birth control methods ranged from Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), oral combination contraceptives, and shots to implants and patches. In 2021, there were approximately 12 million women who used hormonal contraceptives and 6.4 million using oral contraceptives in the US.
The rate of effectiveness of the said methods largely varies. However, despite the efficacy of their distinct purpose and added health benefits, these procedures have apparent drawbacks. Infection, nausea, hair loss, irregular menstruation periods, weight gain, and headaches are some of the few issues women could experience with contraceptives.
Depo-Provera is a type of contraceptive that is injected in either the arm or buttocks. With continuous shots every 12 weeks, it is expected to prevent pregnancy for 14 weeks. It is advertised with a 96% success rate in preventing pregnancy among adolescents and adults. Even so, the promising effects of the drug are currently undermined by its recently discovered dangerous side effects.
A study published in 2024 has found that the prolonged use of Depo-Provera (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate), medrogestone, and promegestone can increase the likelihood of contracting intracranial meningioma. Of the 108,366 participants, 18,061 underwent intracranial surgery for meningioma between 2009 and 2018.
A brain meningioma is a growing tumor located in the central nervous system. Although quite common, they are harmful as it can spread in one’s spinal cord. Most cases are benign, but some can also be malignant. Its severity levels are divided into three grades, with Grade 3 (anaplastic) being fast-growing. Depending on the location of the tumor/s, meningioma’s symptoms can start from nausea, headaches, vomiting, dizziness, seizures, loss of smell, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
The findings from the research further solidify that there is insufficient testing for the long-term effects of contraceptives, and manufacturing companies are negligent in informing their users. Pfizer, Depo-Provera’s manufacturer, is possibly facing class action lawsuits from both US and Canadian residents for failing to inform women about its repercussions. It is estimated that 74 million women around the world use Depo-Provera.
There is no surefire way to prevent pregnancy for sexually active individuals. Regardless, women are still entitled to secure options for contraceptives that not only do their work but also prioritize their health. Recognizing symptoms or side effects and discussing them with a doctor is as crucial as planning to go through one of these methods. In 2022, it was reported that only 30% of women in the United States have received all the necessary and integral information before choosing a contraceptive method.
Due to the withheld details from some healthcare providers, women are forced to confront the aftereffects of the prescribed drugs and procedures on their own. As of now, there are no legal punishments or other serious repercussions set by legislators for companies who take no accountability for producing hazardous contraceptives in the US. It is evident that this topic is receiving inadequate attention from lawmakers despite the fact that 65.3% of women aged 15 to 49 in 2017–2019 were revealed to be using contraception. The search for an effective but safe procedure for women’s reproductive choices is still ongoing. However, it does not diminish the reality that some of them are suffering today. And unfortunately, based on the recent developments involving Pfizer’s Depo-Provera, their number is likely to increase sooner or later.
Until the demanded steps are made for the safety of women, those who have been diagnosed with meningioma due to Depo Provera use can file claims against the manufacturer to receive financial compensation through the help of legal firms. Atraxia Law, a paralegal firm dedicated to assisting women who are diagnosed with brain meningioma after using Depo-Provera, accepts claims and offers assistance to women who are qualified through the criteria:
(1) Received at least two injections of medroxyprogesterone acetate contraceptives after 1992,
(2) Diagnosed with meningioma,
(3) Medical confirmation from both usage of the said contraceptive and brain meningioma diagnosis.
About the Author
Stan Gottfredson is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Atraxia Law, a firm situated in San Diego, California. They specialize in advising and representing victims of toxic exposure.
