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

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

There are two kinds of these highly effective methods: intrauterine devices, known as IUDs, and hormonal implants inserted into the upper arm. —Kff Health News, The Mercury News, 21 Oct. 2024

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

Word History

First Known Use

1914, in the meaning defined above

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