Disposable menstrual regulation kits in a non-throw-away economy

This paper describes a study conducted in Singapore to determine the durability of three brands of menstrual regulation kits and comments on how cleaning and sterilizing affects their durability. Of the 18 syringes tested, only two - both manufactured by International Projects Assistance Services (IPAS) - remained usable after 100 procedures. Both the Burnett and IPAS syringes lasted substantially longer than Rocket syringes. Reasons for unusability varied from one brand to another. All three brands" cannulae were judged to have the same durability. The type of soap used to wash the syringes or the cannulae did not affect durability substantially. In terms of sterilization of the cannulae, disinfectants were judged inferior to soaps. It is concluded that although these kits may be safely used for more procedures than advertised (normally 50), they may not recieve proper attention in many clinics. It is recommended that manufacturers of the kits recognize the actual usage of their products and modify them accordingly.