intrauterine device
- noun
- /ˌɪntrəˈjuːtərɪn dɪˈvaɪs/
- Specialized
- Many healthcare providers recommend the intrauterine device because it is effective and convenient.
- intrauterine device (IUD)
- Shield intrauterine device
- other intrauterine devices
Examples
-
Among a range of birth control methods offered in the study, most women chose long-acting methods like intrauterine devices (IUDs) or implants, which have lower failure rates than commonly used birth control pills.
Blog text (16) -
The form of birth control most prevalent after an abortion was the intrauterine device (IUD).
Academic text (2006) -
More invasive procedures, such as fitting intrauterine devices, require written consent.
Academic text (2014) -
It's called the IUD (or intrauterine device).
Blog text (10) -
Other emergencies may occur unexpectedly during a standard appointment, such as fitting an intrauterine device.
Academic text (2012) -
Grfenberg is best known for developing the intrauterine device (IUD).
Blog text (7) -
Family planning methods include the birth control pill, the intrauterine device, spermicidal jellies and creams, and sterilization.
Academic text (2000) -
First, a large majority of the women in the study were encouraged—and chose—to use intrauterine devices, or IUDs, and hormonal implants.
Blog text (12) -
The copper intrauterine device is a popular option for women seeking long-term birth control.
-
After discussing various options, she decided to have an intrauterine device inserted to prevent pregnancy.
Synonyms
A small T-shaped plastic or metal device placed in the womb to stop pregnancy
A small device placed in a woman's womb to prevent pregnancy
Something that stops a person from becoming pregnant
A thing that stops pregnancy, for example a pill or condom
How Effective
- Specialized
- Specialized
- NSFW
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly compositional: 'intrauterine' means 'inside the uterus' and 'device' is a manufactured item, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can infer this refers to a device placed in the uterus. The referent (a contraceptive IUD) is a straightforward extension of that literal composition and similar constructions exist cross-linguistically, making the term predictable from its parts.
Etymology
The noun intrauterine device is a simple, literal name: intrauterine means 'inside' the 'uterus' and device means a small tool. So it describes a tiny tool put inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy, which is why it means 'birth control placed inside the uterus'.