Abstract: Methods and devices of sterilization by which the ovarian pathway is occluded by a plug, wherein placement of the plug may be visually confirmed. Other methods and devices are also described.

Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.

Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by imposing a secondary shape on a resilient structure, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. The resilient structure is then restrained by the walls of the fallopian tube, imposing anchoring forces as it tries to resume the secondary shape.

Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of occluding a lumen of a body cavity, more preferably, the lower uterine segment and/or cervix of a female patient is provided that results in a significant reduction or complete elimination of uterine bleeding, thereby providing a treatment option for conditions such as menorrhagia or dysmenorrhea.

Abstract: A device for occluding the fallopian tube including a retention member and a mesh material supported by the retention member. The retention member has a first lower profile configuration for delivery and a second expanded configuration for placement within the fallopian tube. The mesh material is configured to block passage of an egg through the tube. The member has a plurality of tube engagement members to secure the retention member to the fallopian tube.

Abstract: A prosthesis comprising a flattened lobe (100), a neck (110) and a handle (120) sized and shaped to shield the posterior vaginal wall from frictional contact during coitus. This self-retaining prosthesis comprises a means to retain the flattened lobe (100) within the vagina and a means to prevent the handle (120) from entering the vagina during insertion of the prosthesis or during coitus. This prosthesis decreases the volume of the vagina and decreases the area of the vaginal opening providing a non-surgical, cost-effective solution to tightening a woman's vagina. The posterior vaginal wall prosthesis enables women who have larger vaginas to use tampons.

Abstract: Systems and methods of visibly marking a reproductive tract, e.g., at least one ostium of the Fallopian tubes accessed transvaginally and transcervically, to indicate delivery of an occlusion device into the corresponding at least one Fallopian tube to effect contraception are disclosed. Marking is effected by delivery of a dye that stains the ostium and/or extension of the marking member from the delivered occlusion device into view in the uterine cavity or ostium. A catheter (or catheters) preferably introduced through a hysteroscope that illuminates and provides visualization of the uterine cavity and the ostia of the Fallopian tubes is employed to insert each contracted, stent-like, occluding device into each Fallopian tube and to mechanically expand or release to self-expand the occluding device.

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: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.

Abstract: A frame of an intrauterine system which includes an elongate member having at its first end a transverse member including a first wing and a second wing, first ends of the wings being attached to the elongate member. The first and second wings are symmetrically bent towards a second end of the elongate member so that an angle a formed between the elongate member and the first or second wing is 10°-60°. The second ends of the wings are symmetrically bent towards the elongate member by an angle ? that is 40°-140°.

Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has a helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization is effected by passing a current through the resilient structure to the tubal walls.

Abstract: A device for occluding a cervix has an elongated conduit sized and shaped to extend from a proximal end outside the vagina to a distal end near the cervix. A loop sized to fit around an exocervix is provided at the distal end. The loop is sufficiently flexible to be tightened and loosened around the exocervix. The device has a rod inside the conduit. The rod has a distal end and a proximal end, and the loop is joined to the distal end of the rod. Moving the rod longitudinally relative to the conduit tightens or loosens the loop.

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: Protective shield and protective or ornamental cover for protecting the vulva and labia minora of a female. The protective shield is shaped to conform to the outer shape of the labia minora and protects the vulva of a female user.

Abstract: A condom may include pouch having a wall and a frame. The pouch may have an open end and a closed end and the frame may be positioned proximate the open end. An anchoring device may be secured to the pouch proximate the closed end. Further, a harness or accessory attachment may be provided to assist in securing the condom to a user. At least one condom accessory, for stimulating at least one of the five senses, may also be positioned on or in at least one of the pouch, frame, anchor or harness using a variety of attachment methods.

Abstract: An improved female condom apparatus includes a pouch that has a wall, an open end, a closed end and a frame. The frame is positioned proximate the open end of the pouch and extends around a perimeter of the open end. An anchoring device is located within the pouch proximate the closed end to secure the condom in position during use. A harness includes a center strap and may include side straps. One end of each strap is secured to the open end of the pouch. Further, one or more of the straps may be detachable from the pouch. At least the center strap may be constructed of a resilient and/or pliable material. As such, during use the center strap extends between a user's legs and resiliently engages the user's back in a clamping or tensioning action. This clamping action assists in securing the condom in position during use.

Abstract: A female condom has a pouch with an open end, a closed end, and a tubular body extending longitudinally therebetween. The female condom also includes an anchor attached to and outside of the closed end of the pouch.

Abstract: Non-absorbent articles are disclosed. The non-absorbent articles include an effective amount of an aromatic inhibitory compound to substantially inhibit the production of exotoxins by Gram positive bacteria. The aromatic inhibitory compounds of the present invention have the general formula: wherein R1 is selected from the group consisting of H, —OR5, —R6C(O)H, —R6COOH, —OR6COOH, —C(O)NH2, and NH2 and salts thereof; R5 is a monovalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl moiety; R6 is a divalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl moiety; R7 is a trivalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl moiety; R8 is a monovalent substituted or unsubstituted saturated or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl moiety which may or may not be interrupted with hetero atoms; R2, R3, and R4 are independently selected from the group consisting of H, OH, COOH, and —C(O)R9; R9 is hydrogen or a monovalent saturated or unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbyl moiety.

Abstract: A condom may include pouch having a wall and a frame. The pouch may have an open end and a closed end and the frame may be positioned proximate the open end. An anchoring device may be secured to the pouch proximate the closed end. Further, a harness or accessory attachment may be provided to assist in securing the condom to a user. At least one condom accessory, for stimulating at least one of the five senses, may also be positioned on or in at least one of the pouch, frame, anchor or harness using a variety of attachment methods.

Abstract: An improved female condom apparatus includes a pouch that has a wall, an open end, a closed end and a frame. The frame is positioned proximate the open end of the pouch and extends around a perimeter of the open end. An anchoring device is located within the pouch proximate the closed end to secure the condom in position during use. A harness includes a center strap and may include side straps. One end of each strap is secured to the open end of the pouch. Further, one or more of the straps may be detachable from the pouch. At least the center strap may be constructed of a resilient and/or pliable material. As such, during use the center strap extends between a user's legs and resiliently engages the user's back in a clamping or tensioning action. This clamping action assists in securing the condom in position during use.

Abstract: A conception device includes a dome having a collapsible sidewall, an annular rim, and three or more gripping flanges along the inner surface of the rim. The gripping flanges may effectively position and secure the device over the cervix for the concentration of semen on the cervical os to effect fertilization independently or with the aid of biologically active agents. The device may additionally include a handle extending from the annular rim at an angle.

Abstract: A female condom and an improved method for manufacturing a female condom is disclosed. The invention provides a device that is effective in both acting as a contraceptive and inhibiting the transmission of disease during coitus. The invention employs synthetic latex in an efficient and cost effect manufacturing method that results in an improved product.

Abstract: Protective shields with and without retaining wings and shield cover for protecting the vulva and labia minora of a female. The protective shield is shaped to conform to the outer shape of the labia minora and may include retaining wings which hold the shield in place. An outer cover may be installed on the shield for protective and ornamental purposes.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may provide a prophylactic device comprises an elongated hollow tube including a shaft, a rounded closed end, and an open end that forms an elongated hollow cavity within the tube.

Abstract: It is intended to prevent a pelvic organ from slipping out of the body by pushing up the organ having slipped out or just before slipping out. A device for preventing and treating pelvic organ prolapse characterized by comprising a convex push-up member which is made of a flexible material showing a pressing force toward a pelvic organ prolapse site of a wearer and in which the surface to be in contact with the pelvic organ is coated with a coating sheet, or a concave member which is made of a flexible material receiving the pelvic organ prolapse site and in which the surface to be in contact with the pelvic organ is coated with a coating sheet, and a means of holding the convex push-up member or the concave member for tightly pressing the convex push-up member or the concave member to the pelvic organ prolapse site of the wearer as described above.

Abstract: A female condom and an improved method for manufacturing a female condom is disclosed. The invention provides a device that is effective in both acting as a contraceptive and inhibiting the transmission of disease during coitus. The invention employs synthetic latex in an efficient and cost effect manufacturing method that results in an improved product.

Abstract: Apparatus for preventing fluid transfer through an opening connecting an oviduct to a uterine cavity includes a body having a base with a periphery and a seal carried by the body for overlying and engaging uterine tissue leading to the opening. The seal receives fibroblast in-growth to create a hermetic seal between the oviduct and the uterine cavity. A peripheral anchor portion extends from the base for securing the body to the uterine tissue leading to the opening, the base overlying the opening.

Abstract: Devices, such as medical devices for inhibiting conception, and methods of using and/or making these devices. In one aspect of the disclosure, a medical device has a delivery system and a first insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a first fallopian tube, and a second insert, which is removably coupled to the delivery system and which is designed to be deployed within a portion of a second fallopian tube. Other aspects of the disclosure include, among other things, inserts made from one or more polymers; inserts which are designed to pierce and remain in place; and inserts which are implanted through a fluid delivery system.

Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has a helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization is effected by passing a current through the resilient structure to the tubal walls.

Abstract: An occlusion device (10) for actively occluding the orifices (12) of the fallopian tubes (14) using the shape of the uterine cavity (16) as a guide to proper positioning of the occlusion device (10) includes a resilient body (18) including an elongated member (28) having a first end (30) and second end (32), and a first orifice plug (20) secured at first end (30) of the elongated member (28) and a second orifice plug (22) secured at second end (32) of the elongated member (28). The first and second orifice plugs (20, 22) are shaped and dimensioned to seat at the orifices (12) of the fallopian tubes (14) or within the fallopian tubes (14) as the elongated member (28) spreads outwardly with the first end (30) and second end (32) moving apart.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits which, when installed or used, occlude or partially occlude a cervical canal, the internal opening of a cervical canal (cervical os), or a uterine side wall rupture location, such as to inhibit or prevent bacterial access and retard leakage of amniotic fluid resulting from PROM. The present apparatus can include an expandable support member of a biocompatible and non-toxic material. In some examples, the support member can include a top portion having a first diameter and a bottom portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. In some examples, the support member can include an expandable stent of a suitable length and uniform diameter to be inserted in a non-dilated cervical canal or transabdominal access route. In various examples, the apparatus further includes a fluid-resistant fabric, polymer, substance or other material placed over at least the top portion of the support member.

Abstract: A self-expanding medical occlusion device treats a heart defect in a patient and is inserted into the body in minimally invasive fashion using a catheter system, and includes a braiding of thin threads which exhibits a first preliminarily definable shape as the occlusion device is being inserted into the patient's body and a second preliminarily definable shape in the implanted state, whereby the occlusion device is in a collapsed state in the first shape of the braiding and in an expanded state in the second shape of the braiding. The threads of braiding are composed of a shape memory polymer composite such that braiding deforms from a temporary shape to a permanent shape in consequence of an external stimulus, whereby the temporary shape is given in a first profile form of the braiding and the permanent shape is given in a second profile form of the braiding.

Abstract: Occlusion devices and methods for occluding fallopian tubes which take effect promptly after deployment. The occlusion device comprises an occluding element and a fixation element. In one embodiment, the occluding element is deployed within the fallopian tube and in another embodiment, the occluding element is external to the fallopian tube.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a kit for the prevention of conception and infection by sexually transmitted infections, said kit comprising the combination of a barrier-type device, a vaginal applicator, and a prophylactic agent. The present invention also relates to a barrier-type device for the prevention of conception and infection by sexually transmitted infections. The present invention also relates to a vaginal applicator useful for depositing a prophylactic agent in divided doses and in multiple directions over the barrier-type device and over a desired area of the cervix and the vagina.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to an sexually transmitted disease (STD) barrier, comprising a planar sheet of biocompatible material having a durometer of less than 85, a tensile strength of at least 3000 psi, a reversible elongation stretch of at least 150%, and that excludes virus and microbes when tested at body temperature and under load.

Abstract: A female condom having a highly elastic resilient pouch portion is able to stretch from an original contracted configuration into an elongated configuration and then return to the original contracted configuration. The pouch may be fashioned with regular convolutions that act in a spring-like manner for biasing the condom into the contracted configuration. Elastic biasing members may be incorporated into the construction of the condom for providing or augmenting the spring-like action of the condom. The condom of the invention may include a contoured V-shaped outer frame which also may have a spring bias incorporated. The outer frame may flex so as to better retain contact with the anatomy of the female when the condom is inserted in the vagina. A retention sponge is located in the closed end of the pouch and can serve as a resilient elastic member in addition to or in place of the pouch.

Abstract: An occlusion device for actively occluding orifices of fallopian tubes includes a resilient body having an elongated member with a first end and a second end. The elongated member further includes a first leg ending with the first end of the elongated member, a second leg ending with the second end of the elongated member and a connection member positioned therebetween. A first orifice plug is secured at the first end of the elongated member and a second orifice plug is secured at the second end of the elongated member. The first and second orifice plugs are shaped and dimensioned to seat at the orifices of the fallopian tubes or within the fallopian tubes as the elongated member spreads outwardly with the first end and second end moving apart. A delivery device for delivery of medication or therapeutic agents to a uterine cavity is also disclosed.

Abstract: A container for dispensing fluids, powders, medications, or aerosolized contents in pre-measured amounts at the moment of delivery. The container can be used to apply a condom or condom like device to the penis in the correct-way-on direction. A detachably-attached polymer or latex film, which serves as the vehicle of delivery, and which could be a condom is located at one end and is rolled over the outside of the package which may or may not have a leak proof layer. To dispense the condom on a penis or fit the film on any extremity, the extremity is inserted into the package and by virtue either of such insertion and/or by virtue of flexing the package to fracture an internal frangible membrane. The membrane may be attached to, or a part of a reservoir that is adhered to the inner walls of the package.

Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.

Abstract: A device for fertility control and management through the application of acoustic energy, preferably ultrasound. According to various embodiments of the present invention, such fertility management and control may optionally be applied for reducing or enhancing fertility and/or otherwise controlling one or more aspects of fertility and conception, including but not limited to contraceptive use, improving the ability to conceive, and/or for separation of X and Y sperm.

Abstract: A protective shield. The protective shield is provided in a generally cupped structure sized to accommodate and shaped with sufficient volume to receive therein adult human female genitalia. The protective vaginal shield includes a soft, flexible outer lip that is generally configured in the shape of an arcuate section made through an ovoid shape substantially along the longitudinal axis thereof. Extending inwardly and downwardly from the outer lip are outer sloping sidewalls. A longitudinally extending nose portion is provided. Inner sloping sidewalls extend from the outer sloping sidewalls to the longitudinally running nose portion. In one embodiment, the inner sloping sidewalls comprise a pair of opposing concave shaped structures, to provide a secure handle grip. In an embodiment, the protective shield may be provided in a disposable material.

Abstract: A contraceptive method including the steps of using a primary contraceptive and administering a secondary, immunocontraceptive to boost overall efficacy of the two contraceptives.

Abstract: It is hereby described an oral prophylactic device constructed of vulcanized natural latex or similar material, having a reinforced edge, a crown-shaped middle portion slightly thinner and a central portion representing a protuberance similar to a nipple (though bigger in size) which is absolutely flexible due to its lower thickness. It allows the practice of oral-vaginal or anal sexual intercourse without any risk of contagion of venereal diseases or AIDS and it also eliminates foul smells.

Abstract: Contraceptive methods, systems, and devices generally improve the ease, speed, and reliability with which a contraceptive device can be deployed transcervically into an ostium of a fallopian tube. The contraceptive device may remain in a small profile configuration while a sheath is withdrawn proximally, and is thereafter expanded to a large profile configuration engaging the surrounding tissues, by manipulating one or more actuators of a proximal handle with a single hand. This leaves the other hand free to manipulate a hysteroscope, minimizing the number of health care professional required to deploy the contraceptive device.

Abstract: Protective shields with and without retaining wings and shield cover for protecting the vulva and labia minora of a female. The protective shield is shaped to conform to the outer shape of the labia minora and may include retaining wings which hold the shield in place. An outer cover may be installed on the shield for protective and ornamental purposes.

Abstract: Protective shield and protective or ornamental cover for protecting the vulva and labia minora of a female. The protective shield is shaped to conform to the outer shape of the labia minora and protects the vulva of a female user.

Abstract: The invention relates to an external female incontinence device. The device comprises a flexible elastic strip having an opening in the strip, a fluid collection means surrounding the opening on one face, the strip and opening are sized and shaped so that when stretch fitted over the external urogenital organs the labia minor extends through the opening and a fluid tight fit between the upper face of the strip and the flesh surrounding the labia minora is formed. The device may further comprise a waistband for attachment of the device and to assist in maintaining a positive tension to press the device against the flesh surrounding the labia minora.

Abstract: The oradent is made of latex or polyurethane material; it is similar to a really small female panty, which covers the entire genital and anus area. It is used in the same manner as dental dams and condoms, to stop the exchange of body fluids during sexual and oral intercourse which will prevent unwanted pregnancies, HIV and STD'S. There are two version of the oradent. One for oral sex only and the other for both oral and penetration sex. Both versions have an opening (bands) on each side which the legs go through, then it must be pulled up close to the crotch area. The crotch areas have an array of flavors and sizes. The latex sheath is flexible in the vagina and anus areas for slight penetration with tongue during oral sex. The penetration and oral version has an opening in the crotch with a sack located over the opening of the vagina to be inserted with fingers or with the insertion of the penis. The opening (bands) on each sides of the oradent is designed to stay firmly in place during sexual intercourse.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use or treatment are disclosed for creating intrauterine adhesions resulting in amenorrhea. In particular, the apparatus relates to an easily deployed intrauterine implant that readily and consistently reduces or eliminates abnormal intrauterine bleeding. In addition, the apparatus is also used as a uterine marker device for visualizing endometrial tissue thickness and potential changes. The method of the present invention serves as a supplement to or a replacement for conventional hysterectomy or ablation/resection procedures used to treat menorrhagia.