Intrauterine contraceptive device

Abstract

An intrauterine contraceptive device is provided which is inserted into a uterus in a collapsed position and is held in an expanded position by introduction of a self-hardening liquid plastic into the device after it is positioned within the uterus. In one embodiment the device is provided with an inflatable membrane for positioning it within the uterus prior to insertion of the liquid plastic, after which the membrane is deflated and in some instances removed. In another embodiment the device comprises a plastic tube with a resilient rod therein which may be deformed to insert the device in the uterus and after being positioned therein a liquid self-hardening plastic is introduced into the tube to hold the resilient rod in an expanded position that conforms to the uterine cavity. In still another embodiment, the rod is arranged to telescope in a tubular member which tubular member can be filled with self-hardening liquid plastic to force the rod out of the end of the tubular member and against a wall of the uterus and to hold it permanently in that position. In addition a tubular member may be provided an angular connection thereof which can be filled with the self-hardening liquid plastic to form a more rigid structure after the device is positioned in the uterus. If desired, a resistance heating element can be provided within the device to melt or soften the plastic so that the device can be removed from the uterus at a later time.