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  • Title: Intracervical device may be effective hormonal contraceptive.
    Journal: Contracept Technol Update; 1988 Jul; 9(7):81-3. PubMed ID: 12281577.
    Abstract:
    Research from Finland provides evidence that a levonorgestrel-releasing intracervical device (ICD) may provide a highly effective hormonal contraceptive, which is free of most of the side effects of both the IUD and oral contraception (OC). The ICD, in its present form, is a T-shaped device 25 mm in length, which releases approximately 20 mcg of levonorgestrel each day. Due to the fact that the device is placed in the cervical canal, with its T section positioned in the lower uterine section just above the internal os, there is only minimal contact between the device and the endometrium. Consequently, bleeding caused by irritation is reduced significantly, and the increased pain during menstruation often associated with IUD use is also reduced because the section in which the horizontal arms rest is the least contractile part of the uterus. All research has reported a very low pregnancy rate, yet the expulsion rates have been unacceptably high -- over 8% in the most recent trails. Tapani Luukkainen, originator of the ICD, reports that if the expulsion problems are corrected by the most recent design, the ongoing study will be continued for 5 years. Advantages offered by the intracervical device include: the insertion technique does not involve carrying the inserter or the device into the uterine fundus, thus eliminating all risk of uterine perforation or malinsertion; the arms of the ICD are located away from the uterine openings of the fallopian tubes, reducing the change of aggravation or infection; the device is not inserted fully into the uterus, meaning uterine size does not restrict ICD use; and most patients report a reduction in the amount and duration of menstrual bleeding.
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