The haemostatic mechanism and menstruation: the role of intra-uterine contraceptive devices.

ABSTRACT

PIP A multidisciplinary study was conducted to examine the hemostatic mechanism in the uterus during menstruation with and without an IUD in situ. The subjects were 40 female patients undergoing menstruation -- 20 with IUDs and 20 without (control group). The patients' coagulation profiles, fibrinolytic system and platelet functions were examined before and after hysterectomy. No significant differences were found in the coagulation, fibrinolytic and platelet function tests in the 2 groups, but in each group the expected changes after operation occurred. Platelet survival time, consumption and radioactivity in the tampons revealed no significant differences between the IUD and control groups. 6 patients in the IUD group had low platelet survival times. Resected uteri revealed a lack of concentration of platelets. This may have been due in part to blood loss at operation and handling of the uterus. Platelet survival time in response to the severe hemostatic challenge of menstruation was normal, but 6 patients in the IUD group showed shortening of platelet survival.^ieng