FemBloc contraception possibly harmful

FDA grants IDE approval for FemBloc nonsurgical permanent birth control

https://tinyurl.com/4kmjt2s8

Ovarian cancer mortality and incidence have significantly decreased over the last 20 years. One of the reasons for this is the use of hormonal contraception, meaning fewer lifetime menstrual cycles.

Also, resection and ligation of the fallopian tubes as a permanent contraceptive measure has resulted in some protection against ovarian cancer.

A new product called FemBloc threatens to disrupt this. Using an innovative outpatient delivery system, a liquid polymer glue is injected into the Fallopian tube causing permanent obstruction, with no ovarian access to the uterine cavity.

This device has recently been granted Investigational Device Exemption from the FDA and a phase III clinical trial (FINALE) is currently underway. Preliminary phases of the trial have shown the procedure to be safe with no tubal pregnancy reported.

The occlusion of fallopian tubes may be protective against ovarian cancer in a similar manner to surgical ligation. However, should this become a common form of contraception, replacing hormonal control, the consequent increase in menstrual cycles has the potential to increase ovarian cancer incidence.