Implanon Medical Negligence
If you have suffered due to an Implanon device, perhaps because it was not inserted or because it has caused you physical harm, then you need to speak to a solicitor without delay. There are often strict time limits at play, so it is therefore vital you seek legal advice as soon as possible.
What is the Implanon Contraceptive Device?
Implanon is a female contraceptive device which is inserted into the skin of the upper arm. In order to have the device fitted, patients must undergo a quick and simple procedure. Local anaesthetic will first be applied to the area on the upper arm and a small cut made, allowing the contraceptive device to be placed under the skin. The implant, which is a flexible plastic rod measuring 4cm in length and 2mm in width, will then gradually release the hormone progesterone into the bloodstream. This has the following effects:-
- Stops ovulation (ie. stops the ovaries from releasing eggs);
- Makes the uterus lining thinner, meaning a fertilised egg would be less likely to attach to the uterus;
- Thickens the mucus made by the cervix, preventing sperm from getting to the womb.
Once inserted, the Implanon device is effective for three years, after which time it much be removed.
Medical Negligence Arising From Implanon
Statistics reveal Implanon to be 99.5% effective, but only if inserted properly. Indeed, hundreds of women have had unwanted pregnancies because the contraceptive device was not successfully placed into their arms. This happens when a doctor or nurse fails to release the implant from the preloaded applicator, meaning it is never actually inserted into the patient's arm. As there is no routine blood test afterwards to ensure the device is working, and the implant does not show up on x-rays, these women wrongly believe themselves to be protected. Unfortunately, the absence of the contraceptive device is often only discovered when the woman falls pregnant. This can have a devastating effect, as a decision must be made to either keep the baby, or terminate the pregnancy.
Furthermore, Implanon medical negligence claims often arise due to unsightly scarring or nerve damage. This can happen when the device is being inserted or removed, and is particularly common in patients who have had the implant inserted too deeply.
Making a Claim
If you have suffered due to an Implanon device, you need to speak to a legal expert to discuss your options, as it may be possible for you to make a claim. After an initial consultation, a solicitor specialising in medical negligence will be able use their professional expertise to suggest whether or not you have a claim. If you have indeed been the victim of a substandard level of care and you decide to pursue a claim, it is likely you will need to be assessed by a medical expert. This is to help prove the extent of your injuries – both physical and psychological.
If your claim is settled successfully, you will be awarded a sum of compensation. This is intended to recompense for the pain and suffering you have experienced as a direct consequence of your negligent treatment, as well as to recover any financial expenses you have lost as a result.
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Can We Help You With A Medical Negligence Enquiry?
Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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