[The intrauterine active disposition in the dysfunctional uterine bleeding: its action on miometrium, endometrium and vaginal epithelium].

30 patients, most of them with dysfunctional uterine bleeding, were inserted with Progestasert, a T-shaped IUD, releasing 65 mcg. of progesterone daily. All patients were carefully examined before and after insertion. In 90% of cases bleeding decreased in amount and in duration; there were 2 cases of amenorrhea. Endometrial action was characterized by secretory changes, decidual reaction, and desquamation of glandular structure. Vaginal cytology was not sensibly modified, while uterine contractility and uterine tonus were increased, particularly during the second phase of the menstrual cycle. It is obvious that progesterone has a definite in situ effect but no collateral systemic action, which makes it indicated in the treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding.