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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hormonal oral contraceptives, hormone injections, and hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) may help shrink fibroids or control heavy menstrual bleeding. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 23 Nov. 2024 Planned Parenthood of Illinois saw a 15% increase in calls immediately following the Nov. 5 election, with many callers asking about vasectomies and options for long term but reversible contraception, such as intrauterine devices and birth control implants. Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 16 Nov. 2024 Misoprostol can be used not only to help pass fetal tissue, but also to facilitate the insertion of intrauterine devices, a type of birth control, or prepare the cervix for surgical procedures such as hysterectomy. Bayliss Wagner, Austin American-Statesman, 24 June 2024 An intrauterine device, or IUD, is a tiny device that is inserted into your uterus to prevent pregnancy. Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for intrauterine device 

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 21 Dec. 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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