Abstract: The invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, including a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, the opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a moveable slider (5) arranged in the longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3), an insertion tube (6) arranged around the plunger (2) having a first end and a second end, with its second end attached to the slider (5). The inserter further includes a lock that reversibly locks the intrauterine system in relation to the plunger (2) via a removal string of the intrauterine system, the lock being controllable by the slider (5) and/or the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: A disposable IUD/IUS inserter is for use in conjunction with a hysteroscope, or blindly, including an inner part which has a flexible metal inner tube, between 1 and 2 mm in diameter. The inner tube has a front end portion including a stylet, the stylet being less than 1 mm in diameter, and the stylet being provided with a stylet tip. The IUD/IUS inserter is further provided with a handle at a rear end of the inner tube, a handle unlocking mechanism for positioning of an IUD or IUS, a release mechanism for releasing of a tail of the IUD/IUS, and an outer tube sized to allow passage through a hysteroscope working channel, the handle unlocking mechanism being connected to the outer tube.

Abstract: System and methods for inserting and securing an intrauterine device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3) and having a longitudinal axis, and an insertion tube (6) having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger (2), the insertion tube (6) being, along said longitudinal axis, movably arranged around the plunger (2).

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides an intrauterine device (IUD) comprising an oval shape, wherein the device comprises a core of magnetic material, an inert material or copper coating the core, wherein the coating comprises a pharmaceutical agent, copper or a combination thereof. Another embodiment provides a method to suppress estrus in a subject comprising inserting an intrauterine device (IUD) comprising an oval shape, wherein the device comprises a core of magnetic material and an inert material or copper coating the core.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and methods for loading an intrauterine device (IUD) with a thread or suture engaged therewith into an insertion device. The devices and methods are suitable for use with an automated knot tying system.

Abstract: A tool for use in fixing the position of an implanted item beneath skin, comprises: a main body, a channel in the main body, the channel defining at least two gripping interfaces for engagement with the skin and around the implanted item, wherein the interfaces are positioned such that, when engaged with the skin, the interfaces retain the implanted item in a known position relative to the engaged skin. Methods of using the tool are also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3), an insertion tube (6) arranged around the plunger (2) having a first end and a second end, with its second end attached to the slider (5), wherein the inserter further comprises locking means for reversibly locking the intrauterine system in relation to the plunger (2) via a removal string of the intrauterine system, said locking means being controllable by the slider (5) and/or the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: A method for promoting contraception by placing a contraceptive device within a uterus without blocking fallopian tubes may involve advancing a distal end of a delivery device through a cervix, advancing the contraceptive device comprising an elongate shape memory member out of the distal end of the delivery device and into the uterus, and limiting inferior migration of the contraceptive device within the uterus. Inferior migration may be limited by allowing the contraceptive device to assume a shape, when subjected to pressure that tends to cause a downward migration of the device within the uterus, in which an expandable middle portion of the device is expanded to contact the inner wall of the uterus and thus limit the downward migration of the device.

Abstract: A suture passer includes a needle extending longitudinally and configured to be manipulated between a catch position and a release position and a first suture notch and a second suture notch. The first and second suture notches extend respectively through the needle with a first catch undercut and a second catch undercut. Each of the first and second suture notches are configured to receive a suture thread therein and releasably capture the suture thread radially inwardly as the needle is manipulated toward the catch direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8 a) and a second end (8 b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5 a) and a second end (5 b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3) and having a longitudinal axis, and an insertion tube (6) having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger (2), the insertion tube (6) being, along said longitudinal axis, movably arranged around the plunger (2).

Abstract: A devise for retracting or opening a tissue wound employs two retractor arms that do not enter or penetrate into the wound. The retractor arms engage the tissue on either side of the wound and apply outward pressure on the tissue surface to open the wound.

Abstract: An occlusion system includes a delivery catheter having an elongate body defining a delivery lumen, and an occlusion device including a bundle of elongate occlusion wires configured for simultaneous delivery through the delivery lumen. At least a portion of each of the occlusion wires includes a shape memory material and has a preformed shape. The occlusion system includes a delivery configuration in which each of the occlusion wires is positioned within the delivery lumen, urged against the preformed shape, and substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the delivery lumen, and a post-deployment configuration in which each of the occlusion wires is released from the delivery lumen and conforms to the preformed shape. According to the preformed shape, each of the occlusion wires has a longitudinal segment remaining parallel to the longitudinal axis and a curved end providing an outward radial force with respect to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter (100), having a proximal (20) and distal (30) end, for inserting and positioning an intra-uterine device (IUD) (120), which is attached to a withdrawal string (130), said inserter (100) comprising: a) a plunger (102), having a central longitudinal axis, configured for slidable mounting of a hollow protective tube (110), the distal (30) end of the plunger (102) being configured for dismountable connection with the IUD (120), which protective tube (110) is configured to slidably cover the IUD (120); b) a handle (104), which is attached to the proximal (20) end of the plunger (102); and c) a longitudinal member (150) that forms part of the handle (104), which extends in the distal (30) direction with respect to the plunger (102), which longitudinal member (150) contains a friction contact surface (152) against which the protective tube (110) can frictionally engage, wherein the frictional engagement of the friction contact surface (152) against the protective tube (11

Abstract: An insertion tool for implanting a medicinal delivery device, such as which is attached to the tissue or mucous membrane lining of a human organ, such as a female cervix, through a variety of means not limited to vacuum suction and/or mechanical fastening. The delivery tool exhibits an elongated body with a vacuum inducing support surface for retaining the delivery device in a first implantation stage. Forward end located actuating clamps grip peripheral locations of the device during implantation, and upon completion, can be pivoted out of engagement with the body of the delivery device, via the toggle initiated displacement of a sleeve integrated into the elongated body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3) and having a longitudinal axis, and an insertion tube (6) having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger (2), the insertion tube (6) being, along said longitudinal axis, movably arranged around the plunger (2).

Abstract: The invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3), an insertion tube (6) arranged around the plunger (2) having a first end and a second end, with its second end attached to the slider (5), wherein the inserter further comprises locking means for reversibly locking the intrauterine system in relation to the plunger (2) via a removal string of the intrauterine system, said locking means being controllable by the slider (5) and/or the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system comprising a handle (3), and an insertion tube (6) having a first end and a second end, and being arranged in connection with the handle. The inserter is characterized in that the first end of the insertion tube (6) comprises at least one frame slot for receiving a frame of the intrauterine system. The invention also relates to a kit comprising an inserter according to the present invention and an intrauterine system, wherein the intrauterine system (1) comprises a therapeutic component (1b) and a continuous, closed frame (1a), the therapeutic component (1b) being connected to the frame (1a) at least one point, and therapeutic component (1b) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged inside the first end of the insertion tube (6) and the frame (1a) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged outside the first end of the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: A device for chemical endometrial ablation comprising an outer tube, a moveable cervical collar surrounding a portion of the outer tube and located near the distal end of the outer tube, an inner tube movable in a distal-proximal direction within the lumen of the outer tube, a porous and/or sponge-like material on the distal end of the inner tube within the lumen of the distal end of the outer tube having a size, shape, and expandability so that when the distal end of the inner tube within the distal end of the outer tube is moved in a distal direction in relation to the outer tube, the porous and/or sponge-like material expands to the approximate size of a uterus so as to contact the endometrium, a source of cauterizing agent, and means to cause the cauterizing agent to flow through the lumen of the inner tube onto the porous and/or sponge-like material.

Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.

Abstract: A device and method for treating a tick bite or other skin wound that may have been exposed to pathogens employs a syringe filled with antipathogen solution whereby the solution is applied under mild pressure directly to the wound site. The device employs spreader/retractor arms to open the wound for better access of the solution into the wound. The method of using the device to cleanse and disinfect a wound is described.

Abstract: An inserter for placing a T-shaped intrauterine device inside a patient's uterus and a T-shaped intrauterine device are disclosed. The inserter includes a sleeve part and a plunger part, the sleeve part includes a tube and a first engaging member and the plunger part includes a rod, a handle attached to the rod and a second engaging member. The first and the second engaging members are configured for reversibly engaging the sleeve part and the plunger part to temporarily lock the relative position between the tube and the rod. The T-shaped intrauterine device includes a pair of wings having a relaxed extended configuration and a contracted folded configuration and an elongated contraceptive body suspended from a junction between the wings.

Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a loading, inserting and releasing tool for T-shaped intrauterine device (IUD) into a uterus. The loading tool comprises a shaft member having a loader, an inserter tube, an IUD and a plunger. The loading tool includes a platform configured at a proximal end of the loader for holding the IUD in an open position, and an elongated member extending from the platform. The elongated member includes a slot running therethrough aligned to the opening of the loader. Further, the loading tool includes a plunger within an inserter tube capable of running through a slot provided with markings thereon. The inserter tube is provided with a knob for pushing the inserter tube along with plunger in forward and backward direction for inserting and releasing the T-shaped IUD into the uterus.

Abstract: A method for promoting contraception by placing a contraceptive device within a uterus without blocking fallopian tubes may involve advancing a distal end of a delivery device through a cervix, advancing the contraceptive device comprising an elongate shape memory member out of the distal end of the delivery device and into the uterus, and limiting inferior migration of the contraceptive device within the uterus. Inferior migration may be limited by allowing the contraceptive device to assume a shape, when subjected to pressure that tends to cause a downward migration of the device within the uterus, in which an expandable middle portion of the device is expanded to contact the inner wall of the uterus and thus limit the downward migration of the device.

Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8a) and a second end (8b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5a) and a second end (5b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3) and having a longitudinal axis, and an insertion tube (6) having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger (2), the insertion tube (6) being, along said longitudinal axis, movably arranged around the plunger (2).

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: An intrauterine device string is described. The intrauterine device string includes an elongated member with an upper portion, an intermediate portion, and a lower portion, the elongated member comprising a memory-retaining material. The upper portion is configured to attach the elongated member to the intrauterine device, and the intermediate portion is configured to extend through the endocervical canal of a female. The lower portion comprises a first curved portion and a second curved portion at an end of the lower portion. The lower portion is configured to prevent the elongated member from becoming dislodged when in use in a female, and is further configured to apply a force to the external wall of a cervix. A method for inserting an intrauterine device is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention describes methods and apparatus for creating permanent occlusion of body lumens such as the fallopian tubes. The methods and apparatus use non-surgical approaches to deliver permanent implants which create acute occlusion of desired body lumens which resolve to permanent occlusions of the lumens.

Abstract: Intrauterine devices and methods for facilitating deployment thereof using a bumper are disclosed. In one embodiment, an intrauterine device comprises a structure including a first central support member and a deployment mechanism coupled to the first central support member. The intrauterine device further comprises a bumper positioned at a distal end of a second central support member and at a more distal position relative to a distal end of the structure so as to prevent the distal end of the structure from contacting the fundus of the uterus of a patient during deployment of the deployment mechanism. In another embodiment, the intrauterine device comprises a bumper coupled to the deployment mechanism and configured to move from a more distal to a more proximal position relative to a distal end of the structure.

Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system comprising a handle (3), and an insertion tube (6) having a first end and a second end, and being arranged in connection with the handle. The inserter is characterized in that the first end of the insertion tube (6) comprises at least one frame slot for receiving a frame of the intrauterine system. The invention also relates to a kit comprising an inserter according to the present invention and an intrauterine system, wherein the intrauterine system (1) comprises a therapeutic component (1b) and a continuous, closed frame (1a), the therapeutic component (1b) being connected to the frame (1a) at least one point, and therapeutic component (1b) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged inside the first end of the insertion tube (6) and the frame (1a) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged outside the first end of the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying pressure to the walls of the uterine cavity includes a resilient body having an elongated member which includes a first end and a second end which are resiliently biased away from each other. The first end of the elongated member includes a first leg having a first end and a second end. The second end of the elongated member includes a second leg having a first end and a second end. A connection member is positioned between the first end of the first leg and the first end of the second leg. A first plug member is secured at the second end of the first leg and a second plug member is secured at the first end of the second leg. The first and second plug members are shaped and dimensioned for bearing against the walls of the uterine cavity as the elongated member spreads outwardly with the first end and the second end moving apart. A method for preventing conception within the uterine cavity is also disclosed.

Abstract: This application relates to a pessary device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method of attaching a withdrawal member to a pessary device.

Abstract: In some embodiments, an implant delivery device can include a housing defining a housing passageway. A distal end of the housing can flexibly couple to a head that can define a head passageway. Collectively, the housing passageway and the head passageway can define an insertion passageway such that, at least a portion of the insertion passageway is nonlinear. The implant delivery device can include at least one insertion member having a distal end configured to be removably coupled to an implant. The insertion member can be disposed within the housing such that, at least a portion of a proximal end of the insertion member is housed within the housing. The insertion member can be configured to bend, pivot, and/or rotate and move within a portion of the insertion passageway to convey the implant to a target tissue.

Abstract: An intrauterine system is disclosed for use in the treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding; menorraghia; dysmenorrhoea; endometriosis; uterine fibroids; climacteric complaints; osteoporosis; and urogenital atrophy. The system is formed by a frame defining an interior space for receipt of a deposit of a therapeutically effective dose of a biologically active compound. The frame has an open structure allowing access to a substantial part of an outer surface of the deposit, and the deposit has a rate controlling structure that controls a rate of release of the compound within the uterus. One or more retention elements are provided on the frame for retaining the frame within the uterus of a female mammal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end and a second end, a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening and having a first end and a second end, a movable plunger (2), an insertion tube (6) arranged around the plunger having a first end and a second end, with its second end attached to the slider, locking means for reversibly locking the intrauterine system in relation to the plunger via a removal string of the intrauterine system, said locking means being attached to the plunger and being controllable at least by a part or an extension of the slider and/or of the insertion tube or of the handle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system, comprising a handle (3) having a longitudinal opening (8) at its first end, said opening (8) having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserter, a first end (8 a) and a second end (8 b), a movable slider (5) arranged in said longitudinal opening (8) and having a first end (5 a) and a second end (5 b), a plunger (2) attached to the handle (3) and having a longitudinal axis, and an insertion tube (6) having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal axis essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger (2), the insertion tube (6) being, along said longitudinal axis, movably arranged around the plunger (2).

Abstract: An intrauterine device string is provided. The intrauterine device string has an elongated member with an upper portion, an intermediate portion, and a lower portion. The upper portion is configured to attach the elongated member to an intrauterine device. The intermediate portion is configured to extend through the endocervical canal of a female. The lower portion has a first curved portion configured to follow a contour of the external orifice of the cervix of a female. A second curved portion at an end of the lower portion has a memory-retaining material to prevent the second curved portion from passing through the external orifice of the cervix and to constrain the second curved portion to follow the contour of the outer portion of the cervix. The intermediate portion is configured to pass through a plane defined by three points on said second curved portion when in use.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inserter for an intrauterine system comprising a handle (3), and an insertion tube (6) having a first end and a second end, and being arranged in connection with the handle. The inserter is characterized in that the first end of the insertion tube (6) comprises at least one frame slot for receiving a frame of the intrauterine system. The invention also relates to a kit comprising an inserter according to the present invention and an intrauterine system, wherein the intrauterine system (1) comprises a therapeutic component (1b) and a continuous, closed frame (1a), the therapeutic component (1b) being connected to the frame (1a) at least one point, and therapeutic component (1b) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged inside the first end of the insertion tube (6) and the frame (1a) of the intrauterine system (1) is at least mainly arranged outside the first end of the insertion tube (6).

Abstract: The invention describes methods and apparatus for creating permanent occlusion of body lumens such as the fallopian tubes. The methods and apparatus use non-surgical approaches to deliver permanent implants which create acute occlusion of desired body lumens which resolve to permanent occlusions of the lumens.

Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a loading, inserting and releasing tool for T-shaped intrauterine device (IUD) into a uterus. The loading tool comprises a shaft member having a loader, an inserter tube, an IUD and a plunger. The loading tool includes a platform configured at a proximal end of the loader for holding the IUD in an open position, and an elongated member extending from the platform. The elongated member includes a slot running therethrough aligned to the opening of the loader. Further, the loading tool includes a plunger within an inserter tube capable of running through a slot provided with markings thereon. The inserter tube is provided with a knob for pushing the inserter tube along with plunger in forward and backward direction for inserting and releasing the T-shaped IUD into the uterus.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the present inventions provide stabilization devices and methods for use of the stabilization devices with minimally invasive gynecological procedures such as methods of preventing pregnancy by inserting intrafallopian contraceptive devices into the fallopian tubes.

Abstract: A gynaecological instrument for delineating the fornix of the vagina during laparoscopic surgeries having a spring, which proximal end is securely affixed to a distal end of a solid ring and the distal end of the spring is securely affixed to a base. The extension of the base can be inserted into the head of the Valtchev® Uterine Mobilizer and locked in place. When the delineator is pushed toward the fornix of the vagina the solid ring is self-adjusting to the angle of the of the fornix and the length of the cervix. An elastic plastic ring is provided, for placing on the solid ring, in order to protect the ring and instrument which is used to open the vagina laparoscopically.

Abstract: The recoverable intra-uterine system comprises a housing capable of containing one or a plurality of elements selected from among the group comprising an embryo, male and/or female gametes, a fertilized oocyte, and unfertilized ovum and a combination of these elements, the housing having along an axis a distal end and a proximal end, and a device for holding the recoverable intra-uterine device in the uterus. The holding device is arranged at the proximal end of the housing and includes at least one holding arm in the uterine cavity capable of taking at least two positions: —one free position in which at least one holding arm is separated from the axis; and —a retracted position in which at least one holding arm is substantially parallel to the axis. Use in medically assisted reproduction techniques.

Abstract: The invention described is directed to an intracorporeal occluding device having elements with non-traumatic ends and devices, systems and methods for occluding the lumens of anatomical passageways and/or for delivering drugs or other substances to the bodies of human or animal subjects.

Abstract: An inserter for placing a T-shaped intrauterine device inside a patient's uterus and a T-shaped intrauterine device are disclosed. The inserter includes a sleeve part and a plunger part, the sleeve part includes a tube and a first engaging member and the plunger part includes a rod, a handle attached to the rod and a second engaging member. The first and the second engaging members are configured for reversibly engaging the sleeve part and the plunger part to temporarily lock the relative position between the tube and the rod. The T-shaped intrauterine device includes a pair of wings having a relaxed extended configuration and a contracted folded configuration and an elongated contraceptive body suspended from a junction between the wings.

Abstract: An intrauterine device for applying force to a wall of a uterus to promote contraception without blocking the fallopian tubes may include an elongate member formed of a resilient material and having a default expanded configuration and a spring portion disposed approximately at a midpoint between two ends of the elongate member. The IUD may also include two tissue contact members, one tissue contact member disposed at one of the two ends of the elongate member and the other tissue contact member disposed at the other end. The tissue contact members may generate a laterally directed force against the wall of the uterus when the intrauterine device assumes its default expanded configuration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intrauterine device string for attachment to an intrauterine device fitted within a female, the female having a cervix comprising an endocervical canal and an external orifice, the intrauterine device string comprising an elongated member with an upper portion, an intermediate portion, and a lower portion; wherein said upper portion is configured to attach said elongated member to the intrauterine device, wherein said intermediate portion is configured to extend through the endocervical canal, and wherein said lower portion comprises a first curved portion configured to follow a contour of the external orifice of a cervix; and a second curved portion at an end of said lower portion configured to prevent said second curved portion from passing through the external orifice of the cervix.