Historical information

Multiload is an IUD, an intrauterine device used for contraception. The plastic used in this IUD is a mixture of high density polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer and barium sulphate in a weight ratio 44/36/20. (MIMS, October 2013)

Significance

This is one of a collection of items received from the practice of Dr Lachlan Hardy-Wilson, FRCOG, Launceston, Tasmania.

Physical description

Two flat boxes containing Multiload CU250 intrauterine devices. Front of box carries an image of a hand holding an IUD inserter, with the Multiload IUD at the top of the inserter, above a blue background on which an image of a uterus has been superimposed. Text printed on the front of the box reads 'MULTILOAD/CU250/intra-uterine/device/Attention:/the enclosed instructions should be followed carefully before insertion of the MULTILOAD-cu250'. Manufacturer's information is printed on the bottom section of the front of the box. Back of box is printed with distributor information. One box is sealed, and the other box has been opened.
Back of sealed box carries a sticker which reads 'Date of manufacture: /12-08-1984'.
Opened box contains a Multiload IUD in a sealed packet, a brochure outlining the recommended procedure for insertion, a booklet outlining prescribing information, and another booklet entitled 'Everything you have to know about Multiload'. The packaging of the IUD inside the opened box is labelled with an expiry date of 16/10/1984.