intrauterine device

noun

plural intrauterine devices
: a device inserted into and left in the uterus to prevent conception
specifically : a T-shaped device containing either progestin or copper that is inserted into and left in the uterus to prevent conception by blocking ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, or interfering with sperm motility
Women can choose from a variety of contraception options such as pills, patches, implants and intrauterine devices. Sarah Barton
The most effective types of birth control, like an intrauterine device, tend to come at the highest upfront cost … The Canadian Press

called also intrauterine contraceptive device, IUCD, IUD

Examples of intrauterine device in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The group is training those doctors to meet growing demands for access to birth control, which includes intrauterine devices, or IUDs. Erika Edwards, NBC News, 25 Sep. 2024 Some forms of contraception, including certain types of intrauterine devices and emergency contraception, may prevent pregnancy after fertilization by blocking a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Caleb McCullough, Detroit Free Press, 14 Sep. 2024 By comparison, fewer than 1 percent of intrauterine device (IUD) users will get pregnant in a year. Sarah Sloat, Scientific American, 13 Aug. 2024 For this reason, people with conditions that cause heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding may benefit from birth control pills or hormonal intrauterine devices, which regulate periods and prevent the build-up of uterine tissue. Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 6 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intrauterine device 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'intrauterine device.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intrauterine device was in 1914

Dictionary Entries Near intrauterine device

Cite this Entry

“Intrauterine device.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intrauterine%20device. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

intrauterine device

noun
: a small plastic or metal device inserted into the uterus and left there to prevent pregnancy

called also IUD

Medical Definition

intrauterine device

noun
: a device inserted into and left in the uterus to prevent conception
specifically : a T-shaped device containing either progestin or copper that is inserted into and left in the uterus to prevent conception by blocking ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, or interfering with sperm motility

called also intrauterine contraceptive device, IUCD, IUD

More from Merriam-Webster on intrauterine device

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