On July 20, 2018, Bayer, the manufacturer of Essure®, permanent birth control, released a statement saying they are voluntarily discontinuing production due to declining sales.
There are no new concerns about the safety or effectiveness of the device for contraception, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists continues to support its prior and current use. The FDA has also maintained for several years that the benefits of Essure outweigh the risks. The FDA has also released a statement that includes reassurance to "women who've been using Essure successfully to prevent pregnancy that they can continue to do so" and encourages those "who suspect they may be having symptoms related to the device, such as persistent pain" to consult with their physician.
Resource for patients regarding the Essure procedure.
What should you do if you have concerns about the Essure® device?
Essure is still considered by the FDA to be a safe and effective form of birth control. However, if you have questions or concerns regarding the device, please schedule an appointment with your gynecologist to discuss these concerns.