Consumer advocate Erin Brockovich has joined the fight against Essure, a permanent birth control method praised for its nonsurgical implantation and quick recovery time.
The device has been linked to severe side effects, including painful bleeding, allergic reactions, organ perforation, device migration, unintended pregnancy, and even fetal deaths.
Erin Brockovich's Anti-Essure Advocacy
Erin Brockovich, a single mother and championed environmental rights activist, became a household name when she helped a small town being poisoned by toxic water for more than 30 years. She was played by Julia Roberts in a biopic film about her role in building a case against the Pacific Gas and Electric Company of California in 1993, despite the lack of a formal legal education.
In an attempt to get Essure pulled from the market, Brockovich encourages women to share their experiences with Essure. She stands with more than 21,000 'E-sisters' spreading awareness about the dangers of the permanent birth control coil.
"I believe that, collectively, we are strong voices that can create change and not only help ourselves, but educate and share our stories so that we can help others find the help and comfort they need," Brockovich wrote.
Many of the 750,000 women implanted with Essure have not been adequately informed of the risks. Brockovich and other advocates are working to update preemption laws in order to give Essure survivors an avenue for true justice. Many want Essure banned from the market.
"It is a woman’s right to decide for herself if she wants a certain form of birth control but when they are NOT told of the devastating side effects," Brockovich wrote. "Well, that isn’t right."