Objective: To determine whether the insertion of a copper intrauterine device can restore regular menses in patients with functional secondary amenorrhea.
Design: Prospective, observational study.
Setting: Clinical practices.
Patient(s): Forty-eight volunteers with functional secondary amenorrhea.
Intervention(s): Insertion of a copper intrauterine device.
Main outcome measure(s): Restoration of menses.
Result(s): In 40 patients, regular menses were restored within a few weeks after insertion of the device. Normal menses were maintained as long as the copper intrauterine device remained in place. After removal of the device, normal menses persisted for 1 year.
Conclusion(s): Insertion of a copper intrauterine device restores regular menses in women with functional secondary amenorrhea. The mechanism of action of the device probably is related to the release of prostaglandins from the endometrium.