A person became pregnant and experienced significant trauma after a sexual health clinic failed to properly insert a contraceptive device, according to a report from the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC) released on Monday.
The individual, who identifies as non-binary and is referred to in the report as Mx A, had been diligent about contraception and feared pregnancy. In 2021, Mx A visited the clinic to have their Jadelle contraceptive implant removed and replaced. However, the doctor failed to insert the new implant, the report states.
Several months later, while traveling overseas, Mx A discovered they were pregnant. “Mx A described this as a ‘huge shock’ and found the termination to be an ‘extremely traumatic experience,'” the report said. The individual had to take considerable time off work to recover emotionally and attend medical appointments, including x-rays and ultrasounds to locate the missing implant.
When the implant could not be found, the clinic reviewed its records and claimed that Mx A had declined a new implant during the original appointment. Mx A strongly denied this, calling the suggestion “utterly absurd” and emphasizing they had clearly requested a replacement.
The report highlighted that Mx A had taken several steps to avoid pregnancy, including contacting the clinic months in advance to check on the implant’s expiration date and scheduling an appointment to prevent any gaps in contraception.
Deputy Commissioner Vanessa Caldwell criticized the doctor for making serious errors that had lasting negative consequences for Mx A. “Dr. B’s failure to replace the implant is particularly concerning given their specialized qualifications and experience in implant insertions,” Caldwell stated. However, she acknowledged that the doctor had since made improvements, including attending training on informed consent.
The clinic expressed deep regret for the trauma caused, stating that it had implemented a “toolkit” for discussing contraception options with trans and gender-diverse individuals. Caldwell thanked Mx A for filing the complaint, recognizing the ongoing emotional impact and their desire to prevent similar incidents from affecting others in the future.
Related Topics:
