Actinomyces in Vaginal Smears

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Abstract
The intrauterine device (IUD) is recognized as an effective, economical, and safe method of reversible contraception. It is the second most commonly used contraceptive method in the United States. Early 19th-century designs made of pewter and platinum have been replaced by plastic devices that may be medicated and may contain copper or hormones. Their effectiveness is apparently related to disturbance in endometrial function, implantation, or both. Although the physical forms vary, all such devices currently have a monofilamentous synthetic "tail" with which the IUD may communicate with the external environment. Additionally, the device may alter the intrauterine milieu, thus making it more conducive for the growth of certain microorganisms. Actinomycesbelong to the family of higher bacteria and are susceptible to antibiotics. These anaerobes have been observed in the vaginal smears of current or immediate past users (within six to eight weeks) of IUDs (R. T. Burkman, MD, and colleagues,

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