The 'tail' of a missing intrauterine contraceptive device.

This case presents a cautionary tale demonstrating the importance of skilled ultrasonography for the correct location of an intrauterine device (IUD) lying within the uterine cavity where the threads are 'lost'. Accurate ultrasound examination can ensure the avoidance of unnecessary x-rays or surgery. The case also acts as a reminder that a missing thread of an IUD does not imply that the device is misplaced.

Integrated summary of Ortho Evra/Evra contraceptive patch adhesion in varied climates and conditions.

Objective: To assess the adhesive reliability of the contraceptive patch (Ortho Evra/Evra).

Design: Pooled data of 3,319 women from three contraceptive studies of up to 13 treatment cycles; a subset of 325 women of the pooled data from warm and humid climates; and 30 women from a three-period, crossover exercise study.

Setting: 184 centers.

The influence of polymer type, print donor and age on the quality of fingerprints developed on plastic substrates using vacuum metal deposition.

This study investigated fingerprint development on five different polymer substrates using vacuum metal deposition (VMD). The conditions required for optimum development are shown to depend on a number of factors. No one set of conditions will result in good development in all situations.

Hormonally impregnated intrauterine systems (IUSs), versus other forms of reversible contraceptives as effective methods of preventing pregnancy.

Objectives: To assess the contraceptive efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of hormonally impregnated intrauterine systems (IUSs) in comparison to other reversible contraceptive methods.

Search Strategy: Literature was identified through database searches, reference lists and individuals/organisations working in the field.

Selection Criteria: All randomised controlled trials comparing IUSs with other forms of reversible contraceptives and reporting on pre-determined outcomes in women of reproductive years.

Yasmin--a new oral contraceptive, a new progestogen: the reasons why.

There are over 60 million women using oral contraceptives worldwide, yet there are wide differences between different countries in the use of oral contraceptives and, in particular, in discontinuation rates. Large differences in rates of sterilization and of teenage pregnancy also highlight the fact that there are considerable geographical differences in oral contraceptive use. There are probably many reasons for these differences, including lack of information about the non-contraceptive benefits of oral contraceptives, differences in national health-care policies and systems, women's fears about side-effects and possible side-effects, and social, cultural and religious differences.

Levonorgestrel-releasing (20 microgram/day) intrauterine systems (Mirena) compared with other methods of reversible contraceptives.

Objective: To assess the relative contraceptive effectiveness, tolerability and acceptability of the levonorgestrel-releasing (20 microg per day) intrauterine system (LNG-20) compared with reversible contraceptive methods in women of reproductive age.

Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Identification: Studies were identified through seven databases, and by contacting investigators and organisations working in the contraceptive field.

The 'pill scare': the responses of authorities, doctors and patients using oral contraception.

In October 1995, the regulatory authority in the UK issued a warning about an increased risk of venous thromboembolism in women taking third-generation combined oral contraceptives. This was done before publication of the scientific papers involved, and resulted in a huge media 'pill scare'. The manner in which the information was released has been criticised, as many doctors did not receive their 'Dear Doctor' letter from the regulatory authority until after media reporting.

Impact of patient counseling on acceptance of the levonorgestrel implant contraceptive in the United Kingdom.

Patient counseling is an important aspect of family planning. Patient choice, compliance, and satisfaction with a contraceptive method depend heavily on the counseling experience. This is especially true in the United Kingdom where contraceptives are provided to patients at no direct cost to them.

[Effects of ethanol on intraocular tension in the rabbit (author's transl)].

A 10% solution of ethanol in physiological saline, administered to the Blanc de Bouscat rabbit by the intraperitoneal route, causes a decrease of intraocular tension at a single dose as low as 15 mg per kg. This dose of 15 mg/kg, regularly given during 6 days per weeks, for 4 weeks, determines a progressive fall of intraocular tension during the 3 to 4 first days of each week, and has apparently cumulative effects: then, it remains at a constant level during the following days, and finally recovers its initial value between 2 consecutive weeks. The decrease of intraocular tension seems to be linked to a reduction of the secretory rate of aqueous humor, partly compensated by an increase of outflow resistance.