Kymographic studies of the Fallopian tubes after insertion of intrauterine contraceptive devices using the Lippes loop and the nylon ring

Abstract

One hundred women attending the Family Planning Centers at Damanhour, U.A.R., fitted with the Lippes loop in 50 instances and the nylon ring in 50 instances, were submitted to kymographic tracings, before, immediately after, and for 5 months following insertion of the devices. It was found that a definite increase in the initial rise of pressure, in the basal tonus, and in the range of oscillation occurred. Spasm of the uterotubal junction occurred after insertion and was also recordable during the 5 months' follow-up. The results obtained suggest that the possible mode of action of IUCD in preventing pregnancy is through an increase in the tubal motility, accelerating the transport of ova through the Fallopian tubes, so that they pass through in one day or less instead of taking 3 to 4 days, so they reach the uterus, even if they have been fertilized, in a stage not ready for nidation or the uterus itself is not yet ready for conception.