Abstract: Thermoset polymer controlled release devices are produced by an injection molding of two or more polymers in a mold to produce a core surrounded by a sheath. The polymers may be injected sequentially or simultaneously.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing women is provided wherein a flexible hysteroscope (10), having an operating channel (11), a fluid channel (12), and an optical channel terminating at a lens (13), is passed through the cervix C and uterus to a position adjacent the utero-tubal ostium. An elongated laser catheter (15) having a radially diffusing contact tip (16) and coupled to a laser generator is extended from the operating channel and through the utero-tubal ostium to a position within the fallopian tube. The laser generator is then energized so as to generate energy sufficient to cause ablation of a portion of the fallopian tube which thereby causes necrosis and ultimate fibroses of the fallopian tube.

Abstract: Apparatus for preventing fluid transfer through an opening between an oviduct and a uterine cavity including an insert for insertion into the oviduct through the opening, the insert having a first portion for causing fibroblast ingrowth and a second portion including a biodegradable anchor for securing the insert to the oviduct.

Abstract: Employing the known “tensegrity” principle, a female condom is configured such that when the condom is inserted into a woman's vagina, the woman's introitus acts on a proximal section of an elongated pouch extending between internal and external biasing members (e.g., rings) of the condom. Inward compressive forces exerted by the introitus on the inner ring of the condom cause the inner ring to be pushed distally within the vaginal canal, and the proximal pouch section to become a tension member pulling against the external ring. This causes a “tenting” of the proximal pouch section against the introitus. The resulting interaction of compression and tensile forces (a tensegrity effect) serves to provide the condom with a high degree of internal and external stability, including resistance to twisting and slippage.

Abstract: A removable fallopian tube plug includes an elongated shaft member that has a diameter dimensioned for insertion into a human fallopian tube. The shaft has an imagable portion located at each of a distal end and a proximal end. A plurality of flexible fingerlike protrusions are affixed to at least a portion of the shaft, and are movable between a first position generally adjacent the shaft and a second position extending radially outward therefrom. The protrusions are biased to the second position and are adapted for closely engaging the fallopian tube when in the second position, and they are further arrayed radially and axially so as to form a barrier sufficient to prevent a passage of an ovum or a spermatozoa in an axial direction.

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: The invention concerns a female condom (10) for protection against sexually transmissible diseases to be inserted in a user's vagina, comprising a thin-walled flexible tube (15) with a closed end (20) and an open end (25), said open end provided with means for being radially stretched comprising a flexible collar (35) made in harder material than the thin flexible tube (15) and extending perpendicular to said tube so as to cover the vulva during intercourse.

Abstract: An ovarian capsule includes a capsule body enclosing an interior for receiving an ovary and defining a selectively openable, selectively closeable access. The access, when open, forms a gap, space or opening in the ovarian capsule through which an ovary is introduced in the interior. When the access is closed, withdrawal of the ovary from the interior is prevented whereby the ovary is encapsulated by the ovarian capsule to prevent fertilization of ova released by the encapsulated ovary. A method of encapsulating an ovary in the body of a patient includes the steps of introducing an ovarian capsule in the abdominal cavity of the patient, opening the ovarian capsule to provide access to the interior thereof, positioning an ovary of the patient within the interior of the capsule and closing the ovarian capsule to encapsulate the ovary and prevent withdrawal of the ovary from the ovarian capsule.

Abstract: A device for collecting menstrual flow has a cup shaped to fit over the cervix and has an attached pouch defining a reservoir that contains an absorbent material. A port having a fabric cover permits menstrual flow from the uterus to pass into the reservoir. The device, which is flexible and resilient, is folded in one end of an applicator used to insert the device into the vagina. The device is shaped to automatically fit into and remain in position over the cervix after the device is ejected from the applicator.

Abstract: A chemical composition, method and product for administration into the vaginal canal. The composition, method and product are effective in preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including the spread of AIDS.

Abstract: A one-piece cervical fitting has a passage formed therethrough which receives an elongated medical device such as an endoscope. The passage forms a fluid-tight seal with the outer surface of the medical device. The outer surface of the fitting defines a pilot portion which is of reduced outer dimension to facilitate entry of the fitting into the cervical canal of a human uterus. The pilot portion joins a tapered outer surface portion which enables the fitting to form a fluid-tight seal with uteri of different sizes. The tapered portion joins with an outer surface portion of constant outer dimension which in turn joins with an enlarged end portion.

Abstract: There is provided spermicidal/antiviral compositions in the form of lotions, cremes, foams and gels that are non-irritating. The compositions contain an effective amount of 4,4′-methylenebis-(tetrahydro-1,2,4-thiadiazine)-1,1,1′,1′-tetraoxide as a spermicide/virucide.

Abstract: Apparatus for preventing fluid transfer through an opening connecting an oviduct to a uterine cavity comprising an insert for insertion into the oviduct through the opening leading from the uterine cavity to the oviduct, a seal carried by the insert for engaging uterine tissue leading to the opening and receiving fibroblast ingrowth to create a hermetic seal between the oviduct and the uterine cavity, and an engagement element supported by the insert for securing the insert to the oviduct.

Abstract: A contraceptive method of inducing ovulation in induced ovulation mammals, in particular the female cat, by stimulating mainly the cervical region of the vagina to trigger a cascade of hormonal reactions to cause ovulation and pseudo-pregnancy to eliminate the unwanted behavior of female cats in heat. The treatment consists in the introduction of an ovulator inside the vaginal cavity of the animal. This apparatus is similar in shape and size to the penis of a cat, is made of a soft flexible material and is safe and easy to clean. The method imitates the sexual behavior of cats by causing a repeated number of brief stimulations at the peak of the estrus cycle.

Abstract: The present invention reveals a device, a kit and a method for simultaneously delivering and distributing at least one beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of a vagina. The device is made of a flexible circular rim and a flexible dome. The device can exist in either a relaxed state or in a compressed state. In the compressed state, pouches are formed for carrying and delivering the beneficial agent to both the cervical and vaginal lumen sides of the vagina.

Abstract: An improved pessary, comprising a frame made of an elongated material of generally circular cross-section. This elongated material is then formed into a closed figure of a generally rectangular shape. The frame is then formed into a configuration which has a generally horseshoe shape, in side view. The frame comprises four arms, including a first, second, third, and fourth arm. With the frame in its initial rectangular shape, the first and second arms are generally parallel to each other. In this initial rectangular shape, the third and fourth arms are also generally parallel to each other. In addition, these third and fourth arms are generally perpendicular to the first and second arms. The first and second arms include springs that are crimped onto each of the first and second arms at a position generally in the middle of each of the first and second arms. The springs permit flexing of the first and second arms.

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: An approach for providing a female contraceptive device is disclosed. The contraceptive device has an upper portion that contacts the cervix and an outer wall. A lower portion of the contraceptive device has corrugated inner walls that form a hollow petal-shaped sections with the outer wall. Each of the petal-shaped sections has a curled edge and is capable of storing semen. The inner wall of the lower portion forms a cavity that receives the penis. The outer wall of the lower portion has surface protrusions that creates a barrier to the flow of semen, yet permits the flow of vaginal secretion. The contraceptive device occupies the upper portion of the vaginal canal, leaving the lower portion of the canal exposed to enhance sensitivity. The bulbous shape of the contraceptive device provides additional sensual stimulation for the female, while the corrugated inner walls enhance simulation for the male.

Abstract: A pessary for vaginal use that prevents rotation after insertion is disclosed. An oval shape prevents rotation of the pessary once installed and a novel unitary molded structure with different hardnesses of biocompatible material eliminates the use of wire inserts that can become exposed and injure the user while facilitating folding of the pessary during insertion and removal. Further embodiments add an inner membrane to aid in controlling uterine prolapse and a novel raised portion or porch to support the urethra and control incontinence.

Abstract: An improved sponge device is presented having one loop-chord placed entirely within or through the sponge device to facilitate insertion and removal of an attached ovoid sponge device into and from a body cavity. The improved sponge device can be cylindrical or egg-shaped like design,--which shall be utilized depending upon manufacturing capabilities available. The improved sponge device can be impregnated with; specific spermicides, anti-infectives, lubricants, hormones, antioxidants, amino acids, and other appropriate medicaments, to allow release of impregnated solution(s) from the device into the body cavity. Closely controlled impregnation and/or coating of the sponge device is achieved by a method of manufacture employing one or more methods for impregnating and one or more methods for possible lubrication.

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: A vaginal device provides physical and chemical barriers to contraception or protection against sexually transmitted diseases, or both. The device includes a towelette having approximately 1 to 10 ml of preventive formulation incorporated therein by absorption. During intercourse, the towelette rests in the upper vagina and effectively functions as both a physical and chemical barrier to contraception. In some embodiments, the towelette may become compressed into a crumpled, disc-like shape, which may enhance its properties as a physical barrier. In other embodiments, the vaginal device includes a flexible ring that is affixed to the towelette to define a dome-shaped towelette portion on one side of the ring and a depending skirt on the other side, with the dome portion being designed to cover the cervix. Means to facilitate insertion and removal of the device are described.

Abstract: An intrauterine device to be used as a contraceptive means designed for insertion into female dogs, that comprises a body and four diverging branches, two of which emerge from the bottom end of the body and the other two exit from the top end of the body substantially in the shape of a V, with both of the branches in the top end having a length that is 4-5 times greater than the length of the body and with each branch of the top end terminating in the shape of a half wedge; the device further having a copper filament wound on the body, and on each of the top end branches, and also having an eyelet in the bottom end of the body for the nylon thread. A method for insertion of said intrauterine device is also provided.

Abstract: A method of sterilizing women is provided wherein a flexible hysteroscope (10), having an operating channel (11), a fluid channel (12), and an optical channel terminating at a lens (13), is passed through the cervix C and uterus to a position adjacent the utero-tubal ostium. An elongated laser catheter (15) having a radially diffusing tip (16) and coupled to a laser generator is extended from the operating channel and through the utero-tubal ostium to a position within the fallopian tube. The laser generator is then energized so as to generate energy sufficient to cause the production of oxygen free radicals which cause necrosis and ultimate fibroses of the fallopian tube.

Abstract: A female condom has a pouch that has a predeployment position on the outer surface of a shield portion wherein the pouch includes a telescoped portion forming an exteriorly accessible pocket for receiving a retention sponge; the retention sponge is sealed within the exteriorly accessible pocket by a removable cover that seals the sponge within the exteriorly accessible pocket while in its predeployment position; the locking and sealing member is removable from the telescoped pouch portion for deployment.

Abstract: A female condom has a pouch that includes a pre-formed small diameter end for shaping a retention sponge to have a pull-out resistant rim thereon.

Abstract: A vaginal insert and method for delivering an agent to a urogenital tract in a patient, the patient having a vagina, the vagina having anterior and posterior walls. The vaginal insert comprises a main portion and first and second portions operably connected to the main portion. The first and second portions each have an end projecting outward from the main portion, at least one of the projecting ends has means for containing the agent. The projecting ends of the first and second portions are configured to engage the anterior vaginal wall while the main portion engages the posterior vaginal wall, thereby positioning the projecting end of the first portion proximal to one side of the urogenital tract and positioning the projecting end of the second portion proximal to an opposite side of the urogenital tract.

Abstract: A removable fallopian tube plug includes an elongated shaft member that has a diameter dimensioned for insertion into a human fallopian tube. The shaft has an imagable portion located at each of a distal end and a proximal end. A plurality of flexible fingerlike protrusions are affixed to at least a portion of the shaft, and are movable between a first position generally adjacent the shaft and a second position extending radially outward therefrom. The protrusions are biased to the second position and are adapted for closely engaging the fallopian tube when in the second position, and they are further arrayed radially and axially so as to form a barrier sufficient to prevent a passage of an ovum or a spermatozoa in an axial direction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for human female sterilization. The apparatus includes an occlusive device configured from an elongate tubular member having a central lumen and a flange formed at the proximal end. The occlusive device is formed with a plurality of flexible ribs configured to provide a plurality of seals within the interstitial portion of a Fallopian tube. A valve member is preferably disposed within the lumen of the tubular member. The occlusive device may further include a plurality of copper rings disposed between the ribs of the tubular member, or ribs may be coated with a material containing copper. The method includes placing the occlusive device within a delivery catheter having a lumen and placing the distal end of the delivery catheter within the uterus. After the occlusive device and distal end of the delivery catheter are placed in the Fallopian tube, the occlusive device is removed from the delivery catheter and ejected into the Fallopian tube.

Abstract: A pessary insertion apparatus providing a rigid, elongated body having an crescentic shape. The body defines a bottom portion and a pair of opposing side wall portions. The side wall portions extending from the bottom portion a distance approximately equal to or greater than the height of the folded pessary. The body sized and adapted to hold the pessary therein. The crescentic shape extending the full length of the body so that, when in the vaginal cavity, the body holds the vaginal cavity open and defines a passageway through which the user may reach the back end of the pessary to force the pessary from the body and into position. Holes in the bottom portion of the body enhance gripping of the pessary insertion apparatus.

Abstract: An intravaginal pessary for treating prolapses includes a flexible core having a longitudinal axis and being disposed in a three dimensional configuration. The longitudinal dimension of the core along its longitudinal axis is modifiable within limits by manual pressure, both before and after insertion of the pessary into a vagina, the core being non-resiliently expandable and contractible within limits to modify the longitudinal dimension. A first longitudinal portion of the core is meshingly engageable with a second longitudinal portion of the core intersecting the first longitudinal portion of the core to lock within limits the longitudinal dimensions of the core intermediate the first and second longitudinal portions. The first and second longitudinal portions are manually separable, both before and after insertion of the pessary into the vagina, to unlock the longitudinal dimension of the core intermediate the first and second longitudinal portions.

Abstract: An occlusion implant device for small body lumens consisting of a micromachined monocrystalline silicon disk which has inherently spring loaded integral helical wings which when released by the insertion device anchors the implant in position. The device may be used for contraception vasco-occlusion for treatment of aneurysms and with an aperture therethrough may also be utilized as a stent. Alternatively, a micro mold of silicon may be formed and a metal or plastic disk produced by injection molding.

Abstract: A vaginal device provides physical and chemical barriers to contraception or protection against sexually transmitted diseases, or both. The device includes a towelette having approximately 5 ml of preventive formulation incorporated therein by absorption. During intercourse, the towelette rests in the upper vagina and effectively functions as both a physical and chemical barrier to contraception. In some embodiments, the towelette may become compressed into a crumpled, disc-like shape, which may enhance its properties as a physical barrier. Means to facilitate insertion and removal of the device are described.

Abstract: A vaginal insert for delivering an agent to a urogenital tract in a patient. The patient has a vagina, and the vagina has an anterior wall. The vaginal insert comprises a member sized to fit within the vagina. The member has a surface defining a channel configured to engage the anterior vaginal wall and receive tissue proximal to the urethra. The member defines a chamber for retaining a supply of the agent and a plurality of delivery ports. At least some of the delivery ports are located along the channel. The plurality of delivery ports are in fluid communication with the chamber. The vaginal insert also comprises first and second electrodes. The first electrode is operably connected to the member. The first and second electrodes configured to be operably connected to a power source so that an electrical current can pass between the first and second electrodes and through tissue proximal the urethra.

Abstract: A versatile disposable film protective mask includes an outlined boundary, a top pair of primary film strings, two top pairs of secondary film strings/ear loops, a bottom pair of primary film strings, a well-defined chin guard having chin guard receptors, jaw webs, cheek webs, an oral cavity web having oral cavity receptors and a reversible half-oval shaped flaccid oral cavity pouch. In a preferred embodiment, the versatile disposable film protective mask further includes a thin lining for those who are allergic to the film and to absorb liquids, i.e. saliva and/or perspiration produced by the wearer of the mask. The versatile disposable film protective mask can also be employed as a resuscitation mask, a dental dam, a male G-string flaccid pouch with a disposable film flaccid pouch harness or a female G-string flaccid pouch with a disposable film flaccid pouch harness.

Abstract: The invention provides vaginal compositions suitable for preventing conception and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases comprising a spermicidal agent and a peroxygen compound. Preferably, the spermicidal agent is nonoxynol-9. Also preferably, the peroxygen compound is hydrogen peroxide. The spermicidal agent is preferred at about 3% by weight. The peroxygen compound is also preferred at about 3% by weight. In other aspects, the invention provides these compositions at a pH of about 4, preferably about 3 or lower. This pH is favorably maintained with lactic acid. These compositions are preferably encapsulated in the form of a gel.

Abstract: A pessary for treating uterine prolapse and/or stress urinary incontinence. A first embodiment of the pessary basically comprises a base ring, a sling support, and a sling membrane wall secured together to form an integral unit. The unit is formed of a biocompatible, flexible material, e.g., medical grade silicone, so that it can be collapsed or folded. The base ring is annular member defining a plane. The sling support is an arcuate portion of a ring having a pair of ends secured to the base ring so that the sling support is oriented in a plane extending at an acute angle, e.g., 33 degrees, to the plane of the base ring. The sling membrane is supported between a portion of the base member and a portion of the sling support to forms an arcuate wall of the periphery of the pessary. When the pessary is in place the sling wall presses against the inter-vaginal wall, thereby gently closing the urethra. At the same time the ring base member provides support for the uterus, preventing further migration or prolapse.

Abstract: A contraceptive diaphragm having a rim surrounding a thin membrane, the membrane having a cervical dome extending downwardly from a posterior portion of the membrane. The rim has two curvilinear bands joined together at their respective ends and encased in a coil spring. The shape of the bands creates a rim which curves slightly upwardly at the anterior end of the diaphragm and slightly downwardly at its posterior end. The rim is formed with a curvilinear profile which provides an advantageous fit. A small dome projects upwardly from an anterior portion of the membrane which is grasped by the wearer to remove the diaphragm.

Abstract: Device for intrauterine use comprising means (7, 8) for attaching the device to the interior wall of the uterus, as well as a member (1) releasing active agent and connected to the said attachment means. The invention is characterized in that the active agent releasing member (1) is in the form of a closed container enclosing the active agent, the walls of the container being at least partly permeable to the active agent.

Abstract: The intrauterine contraceptive device to be inserted in the uterus comprises a supporting stem (1) having two branches (4) disposed at the front end (3) thereof in the direction of insertion. Each of the branches bears at its free end a permanent closure member (7). The closure members are intended to seal the mouths of the Fallopian tubes into the uterus. Each closure member is made of a soft material and has a substantially spherical or tear-shaped form. Fixed to these closure members is a temporary holding and positioning rod (9) of flexible, resorbable material, e.g., of collagen or polyglycolic acid, in such a way that this holding and positioning rod, together with the supporting stem (1), forms the shape of a T, the positioning ends (10) of the holding and positioning rod (9) being farther apart than the permanent closure members (7). The intrauterine contraceptive device is suitable for use immediately after a pregnancy.

Abstract: A product for the administration of an active pharmaceutical agent via the vaginal canal comprising:(a) a sealed, air-tight package, enclosing therein;(b) a sponge impregnated with a liquid containing an effective amount of an active pharmaceutical agent, said liquid being present in an amount greater than that which is blocked within said sponge but less than the saturation value of said sponge such that when said sponge is inserted in the vaginal canal it will release liquid therefrom.

Abstract: A condom for use by a female user has a flexible tube for insertion into the vagina, the tube having a sealed end and an open end, a shield sealingly attached to or integrally formed with the open end, and an adhesive applied to a portion of the shield for detachably attaching the condom to the female user. The shield has a number of regions which together form a continuous, seamless surface surrounding the open end of the tube. These regions include a first region for covering the pubic region and part of the lower abdomen, a second region for substantially covering the right groin, a third region for substantially covering the left groin, a fourth region for covering part of the right inner thigh, a fifth region for covering part of the left inner thigh, and a sixth region for covering the perineum and the anus. One or more semi-rigid ring may be deployed along the tube. The adhesive is a perspiration resistant, hypo-allergenic skin glue.

Abstract: An artificial vagina is described includes a sheath (1) made from a flexible waterproof material. The sheath tapers from one end to the other, the wider end having a resealable opening (2) closed by a screw-threaded stopper (3). Projecting from the inner end of stopper (3) is an eye loop (4) connected to a hook (5) which swivels on wire loop (6) secured to tab (7). The tapered end of sheath (1) has a soft flexible undulating wall (8) and a bulbous portion (9) from which extends an annular membrane (10), the peripheral edge of which has a reinforced elastic rib (11). When assembled with the hook (5) connected to wire loop (6) a fluid chamber (12) is formed and filled with warm water (13) forming a chamber (14). Aperture (15) is formed in wall (8) to connect with bulbous portion (9) for the passage of the water (13).

Abstract: An undulated diaphragm, which has an approximately circular, flat plate-shaped central portion and a peripheral portion composed of a series of alternate, approximately concentric convex and concave portions, is clamped between two undulated container members each having an approximately bowl-shaped recess. The recesses of the container members are each composed of a series of alternate, approximately concentric concave and convex portions, which are complementally formed to correspond to the approximately concentric convex and concave portions of the diaphragm when extended. When the pressure in one recess is raised, the diaphragm successively moves toward the other recess and finally comes in contact with the second recess completely and snugly fits thereto. When the pressure in the first recess is lowered, the diaphragm successively moves toward the first recess and finally comes in contact with the first recess completely and snugly fits thereto.

Abstract: Intrauterine device having a spiral (1,2) wound on a plastic material support (3). The spiral comprises a pair of different metals welded together or being in close reciprocal contact. The spiral is in contact with the uterine environment.

Abstract: A prophylactic device for humans which will allow penetration of body cavities or other orifices especially during sexual activity intended to reduce communication of body or other fluids between a user and a partner. A fluid impervious shield member lies or drapes over the pubic region or other region surrounding the cavity or orifice to be penetrated, the shield member having on one side a fluid absorbing element for capturing body or other fluids produced by or applied to the body cavity or orifice during such activity. A central opening in the device has a slotted elastic member placed over and sealing the opening, the slotted elastic member having a small slot which will allow penetration of the body cavity or other orifice, the elastic material of the slotted elastic member being sufficiently rigid and flexible to provide squeegee or wiping action on the item being used for penetration, thereby preventing fluids from being withdrawn from the body cavity or other orifice and communicated to a partner.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an equipment for inserting a tubular medicinal capsule on a support. In accordance with the invention, the opening extending through the capsule is expanded by blowing pressurized air into the opening immediately ahead the support being inserted into the opening. After the capsule has entered into its position, the pressurization is relieved, whereby the capsule opening contracts and locks the capsule on the support.

Abstract: In the process for preparing an intravaginal application system for the controlled release of substances, a milled sheet of silicone rubber containing the substances is inserted into one mold component of a split mold. The core of the system is arranged on this milled sheet and is covered with a second milled sheet of the same type. The mold is then closed and the milled sheets are vulcanized at a maximum temperature of 120.degree. C.

Abstract: An anatomically designed vaginal tampon. The main body of the tampon has an external configuration complimentary in shape to the vagina. The main body has a pair of side ridges connected to an intermediate wall forming an external configuration resembling a capital H. One end of the tampon includes an outwardly opening cavity to fittingly receive the uterine cervix limiting movement of the tampon. A thin walled sleeve may be loaded with the tampon and then inserted in the vagina. A plunger contacts the tampon while the sleeve is withdrawn.

Abstract: A female condom has a pouch with an unlubricated surface without spermicides to prevent vaginal infection and a lubricating and retention member is provided having voids therein filled with a lubricant and spermicides to lubricate the interior of the pouch when the sponge member is inserted into the pouch; the retention member includes a tip for piloting the retention member into the interior of the pouch and the retention member further includes a recessed head portion that is compressible to permit insertion of the retention member into the pouch and that is expandable to force the outer surface of the pouch against the surface of the vagina for holding the pouch against withdrawal during coitus; the recess in the head portion is located in axial alignment with an erected penis to accommodate the penis during use.