| abstract |
Intra-uterine-device meant to be inserted into the uterus, comprising an elongated stem, carrying at one end two resilient, canti-levered arms, extending sideways on either side of the stem, which stem is contained within a tube shaped sheath by means of which the device may be inserted into the uterine cavity through the cervix, after which the sheath may be pulled back, wherein the sheath narrowly encloses the stem, whereas the shape and flexibility of the arms are chosen in such manner, that the arms are easily collapsable onto the outer surface of the sheath. The arms, when relaxed, curve back towards the stem, so that they substantially form part of an ellipse, the longer axis of which coincides with the stem. The stem may at least partially be covered with a layer preventing pregnancy, which layer enhances the effect of the device. This layer may consist of a copper wire wound on the stem or of a carrier for a hormone preparation. |