Intrauterine device with controlled copper ion elution

Abstract

A method of manufacturing an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception that has a desired copper elution rate is described. The method may involve selecting an elongate shape memory member comprising a first metal having a first galvanic potential, selecting at least one attachment member comprising a second metal having a second galvanic potential that is different from the first galvanic potential, attaching the attachment member(s) to the shape memory member, and shaping the shape memory member to form a frame of the intrauterine contraceptive device. The first metal and the second metal are specifically selected as materials for the shape memory member and the attachment member(s), in order to achieve the desired copper elution rate.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of manufacturing an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception that has a desired copper elution rate, the method comprising:
 selecting an elongate shape memory member comprising a first metal having a first galvanic potential;   selecting at least one attachment member comprising a second metal having a second galvanic potential that is different from the first galvanic potential;   attaching the at least one attachment member to the shape memory member; and   shaping the shape memory member to form a frame of the intrauterine contraceptive device,   wherein the first metal and the second metal are specifically selected as materials for the shape memory member and the at least one attachment member, in order to achieve the desired copper elution rate.