[Mechanical resistance of intrauterine devices. Experimental evaluation]

In view of the possible intracavitary breakage of an IUD, an experimental model was created to evaluate resistance to mechanical stress in new IUDs and IUDs which had been used for varying periods (6-12-24 months). The results of the study showed that, in addition to a slight inhomogeneity of the product which is probably due to incorrect industrial manufacturing procedures, there is also a correlation between the risk of breakage and intrauterine ageing which is particularly evident in some IUDS.