An apparatus for monitoring strain caused by bodily fluids or tissues in contact with an implantable medical device includes at least one strain gauge sensor embedded within the implantable medical device. The strain gauge sensor is configured to measure a mechanical strain of the implantable medical device. The apparatus further includes a processor module coupled with the strain gauge sensor. The processor module is configured to receive a sense signal generated by the strain gauge sensor and to extract therefrom a measurement of strain caused by bodily fluids or tissues in contact with the implantable medical device.
