Intrauterine devices and risk of uterine perforation: current perspectives.

Uterine perforation is an uncommon complication of intrauterine device insertion, with an incidence of one in 1,000 insertions. Perforation may be complete, with the device totally in the abdominal cavity, or partial, with the device to varying degrees within the uterine wall. Some studies show a positive association between lactation and perforation, but a causal relationship has not been established.

The effect of mifepristone (RU486) on the endocannabinoid system in human plasma and first-trimester trophoblast of women undergoing termination of pregnancy.

Introduction: High anandamide (AEA) concentrations are detrimental for implantation and early pregnancy. Progesterone, essential for pregnancy, may keep AEA levels low by increasing fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) expression. Here the effect of RU486, a P4 antagonist used to initiate medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP), on plasma AEA concentrations and the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in trophoblasts was examined.

Asian women's use of specialist Contraception, Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Leicester, UK.

Background: There is evidence to suggest that Asian women in the UK have specific contraceptive and sexual health needs. It has been reported that Asian women may use less reliable contraceptive methods and that cultural influences can affect access to sexual health services. As part of a wider needs assessment project we compared Asian women's usage of our specialist Contraception, Sexual and Reproductive Health Services to that of non-Asian women.

A community-based vasectomy service in Leicestershire and Rutland - The patients' perspective.

Objectives: To evaluate the community-based vasectomy service from the patients' perspective and consider service provision in terms of access, process, quality and outcome.

Method: A prospective questionnaire was handed to 150 consecutive men attending for vasectomy from February to June 2007, for completion two weeks after surgery. Postal reminders were sent at four and eight weeks.

Usage of Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive Methods (LARC) in couples attending for vasectomy counselling.

Objective: Vasectomy is a safe and effective method of permanent contraception. A proportion of men will regret the procedure and some may experience chronic testicular pain. National recommendations in the UK advocate that couples requesting sterilization should be counselled and given access to Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) methods.

Does the use of the combined oral contraceptive pill cause changes in the nasal physiology in young women?

Background: Changes in nasal physiology have been observed during pregnancy and the menstrual cycle. The role of female hormones in these changes is unclear. The aim is to investigate the effect of the modern combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP).