Extensive basic research and clinical trials have in some aspect of reproductive physiology, gyne­ been conducted on inert and medicated intrauterine cology, or family planning. There is in this volume devices. In the last decade, substantial progress has an attempt to provide a total coverage of current been made in understanding the modes of action progress in medicated intrauterine devices. The and the physiological mechanisms of IUDs - pro­ volume is intended for a broad readership, includ­ gress resulting from modern techniques and in­ ing physicians, medical workers, medical personnel, strumentation in microanatomy, immunology, pa­ and administrators in family planning. It is hoped thology, endocrinology, biochemistry and biophy­ that this volume will serve as a stimulus to basic sics. Such studies, however, are scattered in such a scientists and clinicians concerned with intrauterine wide spectrum of journals that the clinician and devices to intensify their research toward better family planner can hardly keep up to date with the contraceptive techniques. advances. An attempt is made in this volume to coordinate physiological and clinical parameters. Little is September 1980 known about the possible role of diet, diseases and environmental factors. E. S. E.