Abstract: A pessary for the prevention of preterm birth, and in particular two pathological conditions of pregnancy known as isthmico-cervical incontinence and cervical shortening, both of which are associated with increased risks for pregnancy loss and/or premature deliveries of babies. The pessary includes a sleeve supported within a ring by an annular member. The sleeve is intended to contact the cervix and maximize the length of the cervix while the annular member and ring contact the vagina. The pessary may be fabricated from a pliable medical-grade silicon, and the pessary may include one or more sensors to measure various patient parameters indicative of a premature cervical contraction. The sleeve may be wirelessly powered from a charging device, such as a pillow, a table-top device, or a pelvic belt.

Abstract: An auxiliary shaping device for cervical vaginal penetration plasty and a use method thereof. The auxiliary shaping device includes a uterine cavity support, a cervical canal support and a vaginal support which are made of elastic material. The uterine cavity support is a hollow bowl-shaped structure; the uterine cavity support includes a first end and a second end; the first end has a larger diameter than the second end; the first end includes a plurality of valve bodies evenly distributed in circumferential direction; a concave part is arranged between two adjacent valve bodies, the concave part has an opening shape; uterine cavity secretions enter an interior of the uterine cavity support through the concave part; one end of cervical canal support is connected with the second end, other end is connected with vaginal support; a passage is arranged in the uterine cavity support; cervical canal support and vaginal support.

Abstract: A cervical cell collection device, kit and method for the collection of cervical cells is provided. In some embodiments, the cervical cell collection device comprises an outer guide assembly having a distal end section with an aperture there through; an inner assembly positioned within the outer guide assembly, the inner assembly having a distal end with a collapsible collection pad secured thereto by a flexible collection support, wherein the inner assembly is movable from a first position where the collection pad is folded inside distal end section of the outer guide assembly to a second position where the collection pad is pushed through the aperture in the distal end of the outer guide assembly where it expands to contact and collect cervical cells.

Abstract: A protective sheath for use within a vaginal canal of a female user, the protective sheath including a flexible tubular body having a body medial portion disposed between a body closed end portion and a body open end portion; and an annular flange extending radially outward from the body open end portion, the annular flange terminating in an annular flange edge having an elliptical annular flange edge perimeter, whereby the elliptical annular flange edge perimeter configures to overlay a portion of a vulva of the female user.

Abstract: A tampon assembly includes a substantially inflexible and relatively thin impermeable portion having two opposite side faces and an outer edge which is oval in shape and markedly oval in form so that the oval shape of the impermeable portion has a largest dimension as measured through the center of the impermeable portion and a smallest dimension as measured through the center of the impermeable portion, and the largest dimension is at least about 1.5 times the size of the smallest dimension. The assembly further includes an absorbent pad portion which is secured to one side face of the impermeable portion so that when the assembly is positioned within a user, the absorbent pad portion is positioned in a condition for absorbing fluids and the outer edge of the impermeable portion sealingly engages the walls of the vaginal canal.

Abstract: A cervical pad is provided for absorbing and collecting body fluids. The cervical pad comprises a resilient circular rim configured to span a vaginal opening adjacent the cervical os. A central body portion spans the area defined by the rim. The body portion includes a pad comprising an upper membrane layer, a lower membrane layer sealingly connected to the rim, and a flexible absorbent insert is disposed in a space defined between the inner membrane layer and the outer membrane layer.

Abstract: The absorbent menstrual cup solves the problem of spillage while removing a menstrual cup by combining a flexible menstrual cup with a non-removable absorbent layer.

Abstract: A coil spring for use in a cavity, such as in a groove of a pin, a housing, or both. The cavity can also be part of a seal assembly. The coil spring can have a longitudinal component positioned within the plurality of interconnected coils that runs along the spring coil axis in order to increase rigidity of the coil spring. The longitudinal component applies a load against the coil spring and/or provides restriction against the coil spring taking a shape or size different than that of the coil spring retaining groove.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating urinary incontinence, comprising a node; a support section adapted for providing urethral support attached to the node; and, an anchoring section adapted for resisting movement of the apparatus attached to the node; wherein the node is no longer than 30% of the entire length of the apparatus comprising the node, support section and the anchoring section together.

Abstract: A sexual aid device comprising a main body (100) and a cervical void (110), sized and shaped to shield a cervix (350) during intercourse. This self-retaining device comprises a means to prevent a penis from colliding with the cervix (350), a means to shield the anterior vagina wall from frictional contact during sexual intercourse and at least one means to retain the sexual aid device within the vagina. This device provides a non-surgical, cost-effective solution to allow for more comfortable deeper penetration by guiding the penis away from the cervix.

Abstract: A tampon assembly includes a flexible and relatively thin impermeable portion having two opposite side faces and an outer edge which is oval in shape so that the oval shape of the impermeable portion has a largest dimension as measured through the center of the impermeable portion and a smallest dimension as measured through the center of the impermeable portion, and the largest dimension is at least about 1.5 times the size of the smallest dimension. The assembly further includes an absorbent pad portion which is secured to one side face of the impermeable portion so that when the assembly is positioned within a user, the absorbent pad portion is positioned in a condition for absorbing fluids and the outer edge of the impermeable portion sealingly engages the walls of the vaginal canal.

Abstract: An intra-vaginal device for the control of stool passage, including a body mechanism for securing the device around the area of the pubic notch and in the area of the posterior fornix, the body mechanism including a force applying mechanism for reversibly applying a force to a posterior portion of the vagina to occlude the rectum. A method of controlling the passage of stool in a patient, by inserting an intra-vaginal device into the patient's vagina such that an anterior end rests around the pubic notch and a posterior end rests in the posterior fornix, exerting a force towards the posterior side of the vagina, moving an anterior wall of the patient's rectum towards the posterior wall of the rectum with the force applying portion, impeding the passage of stool, and removing the force, allowing stool to pass.

Abstract: In some aspects, the present invention provides surgical procedures that comprise applying compositions into and/or onto tissue, including supporting tissues (e.g., ligaments, connective tissue, muscles, etc.) for pelvic organs, among other tissues. In other aspects, the present disclosure pertains to compositions that are useful for performing such procedures. In still other aspects, the present disclosure pertains to kits that are useful for performing such procedures.

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: 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: 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: A contraceptive or non-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 a spring member having non-uniform bending characteristics. The shape of the spring member can be contoured to provide a rim that curves slightly upwardly at the anterior end of the diaphragm and slightly downwardly at its posterior end.

Abstract: A cervical isolation and delivery apparatus having a cervical cap removably connected to a syringe such that a bottom opening of the cervical cap is in communication with an internal chamber of the syringe. The syringe is an elongated hollow tube with an elongated rod slidable disposed within an internal chamber of the elongated hollow tube. The cervical cap is removably connected to an application end of the elongated hollow tube such that upon insertion of the apparatus into a patient's vagina, the cervical cap covers the patient's cervix while protecting the tissue surrounding the cervix. The patient's cervix is treated by placing medication, e.g.

Abstract: This contraceptive diaphragm is made with a ring or member made at least in part from a shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy is superelastic at body temperature. When deployed this superelastic ring or member applies a declining but more constant force on the vaginal wall than the rings used in current contraceptive diaphragms. This more constant force enables a tighter fit in the event that the woman using the diaphragm was sized incorrectly. It also allows the physician a greater margin of error when sizing a woman for a diaphragm. Because the superelastic ring should provide a more consistent, snug fit than existing diaphragms, it should more reliably prevent the passage of sperm and seminal fluid.

Abstract: Microbicidal and spermicidal devices, methods, and compositions containing sodium dodecyl sulfate or related anionic surfactants as active ingredients for the prevention and control of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease, including conditions caused by non-enveloped viruses such as human papilloma virus.

Abstract: An cervical drug delivery apparatus having an absorbent cylindrical structure with a cervical cap attached to one end. One or more therapeutic agents are applied to the internal surface of the cervical cap. The cervical drug delivery apparatus is housed within an applicator and inserted into a patient's vagina. Upon deployment of the cervical drug delivery apparatus, the cervical cap is automatically positioned over the patient's cervix providing for the direct application of the therapeutic agents on the patient's cervix. Alternative features of the cervical drug delivery apparatus include, a break-away cylindrical structure, a collapsible support structure for the cervical cap, an inflatable means for supporting the cervical cap, and the ability of the cylindrical structure and/or the cervical cap to contain one or more therapeutic agents that can be delivered by outside means.

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: Microbicidal and spermicidal devices, methods, and compositions containing sodium dodecyl sulfate or related anionic surfactants as active ingredients for the prevention and control of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease, including conditions caused by non-enveloped viruses such as human papilloma virus.

Abstract: An improved cervical cap positioned over a cervix to concentrate sperm and effect fertilization having a thin-walled, flexible, and pliant dome with an integrally-molded flexible annular rim. The cervical cap further includes an elongated string of elastomeric material having first and second ends. The first end of the elongated string is connected to the apex portion of the dome and the second end is connected to a loop for removing the cap from a vaginal cavity. The loop is intended to remain outside the vaginal cavity when the cap is positioned over the cervix.

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: 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: Microbicidal and spermicidal methods and topical pharmaceutical compositions containing sodium dodecyl sulfate or its derivatives as active ingredients for the prevention and control of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, including human papilloma viruses. Spermicidal barriers and microbial disinfectants containing the compositions are also provided.

Abstract: The pessary 22, which will alleviate the common female problems of stress incontinence and prolapse, includes an annular hollow body 24 and an air tube 26. The hollow body is ring shaped and is made deflatable. While the body 24 is being inserted into the vagina it is evacuated which diminishes its size and thereby reduces the discomfort associated with insertion. Once in place in the vagina, air is given free access to the hollow device 24 whereby elasticity of the device causes it to expand to its normal shape. When the device 24 is to be removed from the vagina the tube 26, which is preferable coiled and stowed at the center of the ring shaped device 24, is extracted and connected to the hollow needle of a syringe. When the syringe sucks out air, the hollow body 24 diminished in size, which reduces the discomfort associated with its removal.

Abstract: A cervical collection device (20) for collecting uterine and cervical secretions for medical diagnostic purposes. The cervical collection device (20) is placed over the cervical opening (14). Collection device (20) includes an outer elastomeric receptacle (22) of a hemispherical shape having a collection capsule or pad (26) fitting thereon. Collection pad (26) includes an inner layer or core (28) of absorbent material and an outer water-resistant cover (32). Collection member (26) has an outer convex surface conforming to the inner surface of the elastomeric receptacle (22). Receptacle (22) has an outer rim (24) arranged for fitting over the cervical opening (14) for removable securement of collection device (20) to a user. Inner layer (28) may be formed of various materials and impregnated with selected substances.

Abstract: Single and multiple layer membranes such as gloves and condoms include one or more deactivating barrier layers and/or indicating layers to indicate to a user membrane breach or the presence of a harmful substance in blood or body fluids. A membrane may include one or more permeable or semipermeable layers to disperse contained substances such as lubricants, biocides, spermicides, or indicators outwardly, and may also include permeable or semipermeable layers to allow transmission of body fluids or other environmental fluids inwardly into contact with an indicating or treating substance. An intermediate layer of a multi-layer membrane may include a substance to wipe, cleanse, sterilize, or otherwise treat a piercing needle. A membrane may include a sealing or coating to entrap indicators or other agents such as biocides therein. A method of making membranes such as gloves results in a double glove having discrete inner or outer layers joined only in a cuff region.

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: The present invention is for a device and a gel method for controlling pH by acidic buffering. The device is made of a flexible dome, a flexible circular rim and an absorbent acidic buffer. The flexible dome is attached a its margin to the circular rim and the absorbent acidic buffer is contained within the device. The absorbent acidic buffer can control or maintain pH within physiological ranges. The gel method for controlling pH by acidic buffering is accomplished by applying a gel to an area where the pH is to be controlled. The gel includes an acidic buffering polymer which can control or maintain the pH of the area within the range of about 3 to about 5.

Abstract: The present invention is for a device and a gel method for controlling pH by acidic buffering. The device is made of a flexible dome, a flexible circular rim and an absorbent acidic buffer. The flexible dome is attached at its margin to the circular rim and the absorbent acidic buffer is contained within the device. The absorbent acidic buffer can control or maintain pH within physiological ranges. The gel method for controlling pH by acidic buffering is accomplished by applying a gel to an area where the pH is to be controlled. The gel includes an acidic buffering polymer which can control or maintain the pH of the area within the range of about 3 to about 5.

Abstract: A surgical diaphragm for use in laparoscopic gynecological surgery is illustrated and described. Proximal and distal tubes extend from the diaphragm with the end of the proximal tube being accessible to the surgeon. The diaphragm functions to maintain the pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery when a colpotomy is required. The proximal tube may be sealed in such a way as to permit fluid egress and ingress to the surgical site through the colpotomy, and also to permit surgical tools to be inserted through the tubes.

Abstract: This invention titled "Permanent Diaphragm" is a method of contraception. It is different from conventional diaphragms in that it is secured by suture to the cervix (mouth of the uterus). It is made of durable material that can be worn indefinitely. It can be inserted and can be removed as an office procedure.

Abstract: A contraceptive diaphragm has a cup-shaped body molded from a thermoplastic or thermosetting material, and a rim formed with the diaphragm body having a thickness and an inner core structure sufficient to provide a desired bending resilience for use of the diaphragm without any metal spring therein. The thermoplastic or thermosetting material is preferably a silicone rubber. In one embodiment, the rim is molded with a solid inner core structure with a circular cross-section of between 0.060 to 0.375 inch outer diameter. In another embodiment, the rim is formed by an outer layer molded around an inner core in the form of a plastic, injection- or compression-molded ring. The molded plastic ring is preferably made of an acetal plastic material with an outer diameter of between 0.040 to 0.250 inch. The plastic ring may have two or more cutout portions formed spaced apart along its circumference for defining flexing points on the diaphragm rim.

Abstract: A vaginal pessary (10 or 34) used to control urinary incontinence or a prolapse, which pessary has a hollow annular body (12 or 36) and an elongated fluid conveying flexible elongated tube (16) which may be stored between the upper and lower surfaces of the annular body when the pessary has been properly inserted into the vagina. The annular body is provided with a diaphragm (20) attached to the inner surface (12.2 or 36.2) of the body, the diaphragm having a central aperture (22). The tube (16) has a coiled shape by making the tube from an elastic material having a memory, by having the tube carry a spring wire (18) forming into a coiled shape, or both. In the illustrated embodiments, a one way valve (24) is provided in an end portion (16.2) of the tube. The valve may be opened by inserting a hypodermic needle carried by a syringe to either cause the body (16) to assume its normal operational volume or to have its volume reduced for insertion or removal.

Abstract: A kit for intravaginal, barrier-type prevention of conception and sexually-transmitted infection includes a barrier-type device and an applicator, the barrier-type device including a cervical dome having an upwardly facing opening and a curved surface extending from the opening to a downwardly-facing dome peak and including a continuous fornical rim defining the opening and transitioning therefrom into a continuous, annular vaginal brim which circumscribes the dome and extends both outwardly and downwardly, and wherein the brim defines a thickened grip portion extending inwardly toward the dome. The applicator includes an elongate handle having at its proximal end arcuate support means for supporting the barrier-type device, and gripping member for releasably holding the device upon the support means during intravaginal positionment of said device.

Abstract: A contraceptive cervical cap or form therefor, and a method for producing the same.

Abstract: A porous pouch or pad-retaining means in a vaginal diaphragm or a cervical cap, specially designed to securely and removably house a foam pad which pad will dispense Nonoxynol-9 or other spermatostatic/lymphocytostatic chemicals where the chemicals will exert maximal effect during hydrostatic pressure changes occurring during intercourse.

Abstract: A contraceptive cervical cap or form therefor, and a method for producing the same.

Abstract: A device and method for intravaginal, barrier-type prevention of conception and infection by sexually-transmitted diseases based upon a barrier-type device including a flexible cervical dome having a continuous fornical rim defining an opening into the dome and a continuous, annular, vaginal brim which circumscribes and is attached to the cervical dome at the fornical rim. The vaginal brim is reverse-folded from the fornical rim, and has a dimension which continuously increases with circumferential symmetry from an anterior vaginal extension of the brim to a posterior vaginal extension of the brim which is diametrically opposite the anterior vaginal extension. The fornical rim is characterized in having a lip which extends inwardly from the opening toward the centerline of the dome. The brim has a curvature in a direction away from the dome.

Abstract: A cervical cap for covering a portion of the cervix uteri in order to prevent migration of sperm from the vagina into the cervical canal to thereby prevent conception. The cervical cap has an open end portion, a dome-shaped portion, preferably sealed, disposed opposite the open end portion, and a ridged section designed to grip the cervix to secure the cap. In the preferred embodiments, the ridged section has a plurality of substantially parallel ring-shaped ridges formed on the interior surface of the cap. In an alternate embodiment, a helical-shaped ridge is formed on the interior surface of the cap and extends from the rim to the dome portion, progressively narrowing in width.

Abstract: A contraceptive device adapted to be worn by a female, and which serves to prevent the exchange of body fluids during intercourse, is disclosed. A preferred embodiment of the device has an elongate tubular sheath formed of thin, fluid impermeable material, the sheath having a closed inner end portion and an open outer end portion. A resilient inner ring is connected to the inner end portion for anchoring the same to the cervix of a wearer. An outer ring is connected to the open outer end portion for maintaining the outer end portion in an open configuration.

Abstract: A disposable cervical cap has a thin, form-assuming pliable dome with an integrally-molded resilient retaining rim. The rim has a bevelled outer shoulder and contains an annular groove on its inner surface. The inner groove and rim define two ascending lips on the inner surface of the rim which prevent dislodgement of the cap from the cervix. The cervial cap includes a set of tabs on its outer surface to assist in positioning and placement of the cap and further includes a loop for removing the cap after use.

Abstract: The intravaginal device is comprised of a plastic body (2) wherein a drug is contained. Said device may be particularly used for contraception. A support (8) is arranged into the body which is formed of a preferably cylindrical block of plastic foam. It has an opening (15) parallel and preferably centered to the axis of the cylinder forming the block. This opening may preferably be a blind hole. The support is arranged in the opening. Said support is connected with the body by means of an element embedded in the foam. The invention also discloses a method for handling said device as well as a handling device for implementing the method for introducing, respectively removing said device.

Abstract: A device and method for intravaginal, barrier-type prevention of conception and infection by sexually-transmitted diseases based upon a barrier-type device including a flexible cervical dome having a continuous fornical rim defining an opening into the dome and a continuous, annular, vaginal brim which circumscribes and is attached to the cervical dome at the fornical rim. The vaginal brim is reverse-folded from the fornical rim, and has a dimension which continuously increases with circumferential symmetry from an anterior vaginal extension of the brim to a posterior vaginal extension of the brim which is diametrically opposite the anterior vaginal extension. The fornical rim is characterized in having a lip which extends inwardly from the opening toward the centerline of the dome. The brim has a curvature in a direction away from the dome.

Abstract: Pessary particularly applicable in the treatment of prolapses of internal female sex organs, which pessary is formed by a ring-shaped member constructed of such material or such materials that the ring can be deformed by hand to any given shape and the circumferential dimension of the ring can be increased or decreased to some extent by hand, after which the ring retains the ultimately given shape and circumferential dimension. Preferably the ring (1) consists of a core (4) which has the shape of a spiral of non-resilient nature and a flexible casing (5) enclosing said core (4).

Abstract: A barrier type contraceptive is an umbrella-like device including a flexible, barrier member with a plurality of radially disposed resilient stiffening members associated therewith. The stiffening members bias the barrier member into a generally planar configuration while allowing for the device to be folded into a generally fusiform shape for insertion.