The IUB (Intrauterine Ball), a Newly Invented IUD: a Brief Report

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the initial safety and effectiveness of the Intrauterine Ball, a copper intrauterine device which upon insertion in the uterus takes a three dimensional spherical form. STUDY DESIGN: Fifteen women were followed for one year, with follow-up visits at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. RESULTS: The physician reported that all devices were very easy to insert. One subject discontinued before the 6 month visit (at 119 days post insertion) for a reason not related to the device. There were no perforations, expulsions, mal-positions or complications, or pregnancies. CONCLUSION: No safety or efficacy concerns were raised. IMPLICATIONS: Due to its form and deployment process the IUB™ is expected to ease insertion and reduce perforation, malposition and expulsion rates and may also reduce dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia.