Young woman faces open-heart surgery after birth control goes horribly wrong: ‘What if I don’t survive?’

When you think about the common procedure of getting a contraceptive implant, it’s not often associated with open-heart surgery, but for one young Victorian woman, this is an uncomfortable reality.

Cloe Westerway, aged 22, underwent a standard routine procedure to have an Implanon inserted two years ago in a women’s health clinic, but in the following days, things started to take a turn.

Cloe began experiencing heart palpitations, excessive sweating and heartburn symptoms and immediately knew something wasn’t quite right.

When the doctors tried to remove the implant, there was one problem: they couldn’t find it, with subsequent scans revealing the 1.5 inch rod had ventured into her pulmonary artery. 

“It has gone through 🔯my vein through my right ventricle and popped up in my left chamber,” .

What is an Implanon?

Implanon is a small plastic rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm t🌺o prevent pregnancy.ꦯ

It steadily releases progestogen, a hormone that inhibits ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and makes the u♓terine lining less receptive to a fertilized egg.

🉐This long-term contraceptive option 𒅌can provide protection for up to three years.

One-of-a-kind procedure

Impl𝓀anon is highly effective as a contraceptive method. When used correctly, it has a success rate of over 99%, making it one of the most reliable forms of birth control available.

Cloe will undergo major surgery to remove the device at Victoria’s Heart Hospital, a procedure never performed before, with the extent of the operation needed unknown until surgeons get started. 

“They ♚may end up just cutting down the middle, which is classified as open-heart surgery,” she explained.

It’s not just the physical aspect that has Cloe concerned; she’s also understandably worried about her mental state in the lead-up.

“You know… what if they don’t get it out? What if you know I don’t survive? Or what if more damage happens?” she said.

“It’s pre🍌tty terrifying. 🍨This hasn’t really happened to anybody else.”

Following the surgery, which can span up to five hours, Cloe will spend up to three days in the ICU before undergo🤡ing months of rehab and recovery.

While this is a rare and isolated incident, it’s always important to discuss any and all risks with your doctor when exploring which options are right for you.