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
Sarah Barton The most effective types of birth control, like an intrauterine device, tend to come at the highest upfront cost … —The Canadian Press
The Canadian Press called also intrauterine contraceptive device, IUCD, IUD
Examples of intrauterine device in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In August last year, the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S., finally communicated what many women have claimed for years: pain during gynecological procedures, especially intrauterine devices (IUD) insertions, is often underestimated and poorly managed.
—Lisa Falco, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
In a significant shift toward more empathetic gynecologic care, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) released new clinical guidelines this month urging healthcare providers not to underestimate the pain experienced by patients during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 23 May 2025
Such concerns may in part explain emerging research that suggests the use of long-acting contraception such as intrauterine devices, or IUDs, and permanent contraception – namely, sterilization – are on the rise.
—Carol S. Weisman, The Conversation, 23 June 2025
In 2017, a number of Greenlandic women came forward and shared that, during the 1960s, Danish physicians had inserted intrauterine devices without their consent.
—Morten Høi Jensen, The Dial, 19 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for intrauterine device
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Lisa Falco, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
In a significant shift toward more empathetic gynecologic care, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) released new clinical guidelines this month urging healthcare providers not to underestimate the pain experienced by patients during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion.
—Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 23 May 2025
Such concerns may in part explain emerging research that suggests the use of long-acting contraception such as intrauterine devices, or IUDs, and permanent contraception – namely, sterilization – are on the rise.
—Carol S. Weisman, The Conversation, 23 June 2025
In 2017, a number of Greenlandic women came forward and shared that, during the 1960s, Danish physicians had inserted intrauterine devices without their consent.
—Morten Høi Jensen, The Dial, 19 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for intrauterine device
Cite this Entry
“Intrauterine device.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intrauterine%20device. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.
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