[Clinical experiences with the Medusa Cu 240 Ag intrauterine device]

The contraceptive safety and complication rate of the Medusa Cu 240 Ag intrauterine device (IUD) were assessed in 215 women over a 3-year period after insertion. The size of the IUD was chosen according to uterine size as measured by ultrasonography before insertion, and the IUD was inserted under sterile conditions. Patients underwent pelvic examination, speculum inspection, ultrasonography and questioning as to their acceptance of the IUD at 6-months intervals. Insertion was not possible because of scarring of the external os in 4 patients with a history of cervical conization. The incidence of complications not requiring removal of the device varied from 9% to 29% at follow up. The IUD had to be removed earlier than planned in 13% of the patients. The Pearl index was 0.5. Excellent acceptance was reported at follow up by 79% to 88% of the patients. There were no cases of spontaneous expulsion or uterine perforation.