College Woman Dies After Taking Birth Control Pill

March 12, 2010 - PRLog -- Leah Mayfield was an outgoing college woman studying to be a nurse with a lot going for her. But six months after taking the birth control pill Yaz, she was dead from a blood clot.

"She was all about laughing and having fun," her mother, Traci Mayfield told News Channel 5, of Nashville, TN, of her 20-old-daughter. Leah was on the dean’s list and was a leader in her sorority. "We were more than mother/daughter, we were best friends," her mother said.

Women in the Phoenix area would appreciate knowing about Leah’s situation, since it could affect any woman. The side effects of oral contraception are often dismissed by medical professionals as being non-threatening.

Family Sues Pill Maker

Leah’s family is suing Yaz’s manufacturer, Bayer, for misleading women. The lawsuit claims "hundreds of young women have suffered serious or fatal injuries as a result of taking this widely prescribed medication," according to News Channel 5. “The FDA received reports of more than 50 deaths" where those who died were users of YAZ. The lawsuit says that Bayer "ignored the increased risks of the drug."  

Leah, who attended Tennessee Technological University in Cookville, died about an hour after passing out in the shower. Her roommate tried to help her, but her breathing was shallow, and her face turned pale. Her roommate called Leah’s mother, but before her parents could arrive, Leah was dead. While the official cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, a doctor in the emergency room said the embolism might have been caused by Yaz, according to the TV station.

Bayer Runs Afoul With FDA

The Food and Drug Administration in 2008 cracked down on Bayer, levying a fine and forcing it to run ads correcting claims that Yaz could clear up acne, general mood problems, irritability, anxiety, and premenstrual symptoms. The move was followed by similar actions by Attorney Generals in 27 states.

Women in Phoenix, Peoria, Glendale, Tempe, Mesa, Avondale and other cities can learn more about the true effects of oral contraceptives by contacting Life Choices Women’s Clinics at 602-305-5100.

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Life Choices Women's Clinics serves women in the Phoenix, AZ area with pregnancy tests, sexually transmitted infection testing and treatment, well women exams, NaProTechnology infertility treatment, and natural family planning.