device /de·vice/ (dĭvīs´) something contrived for a specific purpose.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
intrauterine device (IUD)
device [de-vīs´]
intrauterine [in″trah-u´ter-in]
biventricular assist device (BVAD) a ventricular assist device with the combined functions of both left and right ventricular assist devices.
contraceptive device one used to prevent conception, such as a barrier contraceptive, an intrauterine device, or a means of preventing ovulation (e.g., birth control pill).
intrauterine device (IUD) a plastic or metallic device inserted in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
ventricular assist device (VAD) a circulatory support device that augments the function of the left ventricle, the right ventricle, or both, by providing mechanically assisted pulsatile blood flow.
| intrauterine device n. Abbr. IUD A birth control device, such as a plastic or metallic loop, ring, or spiral, that is inserted into the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterine lining. |
Intrauterine device (IUD)
Contraceptive device consisting of a piece of bent plastic or metal that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus
Mentioned in: Emergency Contraception, Transvaginal Ultrasound
intrauterine device (IUD)
Etymology: L, intra + uterus, womb; Fr, devise
a contraceptive device, consisting of a bent strip of radiopaque plastic with a fine monofilament tail. The addition of copper wire and/or bands increases the effectiveness. Progesterone-filled IUDs are also available. The mechanism of action is not known. Insertion into the cervix is performed during or just after menstruation when the cervix is slightly open and menstruation assures that a pregnancy does not exist. The tail string of the IUD is left projecting a few centimeters from the cervix. By feeling the string with her finger at least once each menstrual cycle the wearer can be sure the device is in place. The string also provides a hold for removing the IUD. The rate of failure for the IUD method of contraception is approximately one to five unplanned pregnancies in 100 women using the device for 1 year. IUDs can cause complications; the most serious is pelvic inflammatory disease. When such infections occur in pregnancy, they may be overwhelming and lethal; therefore the IUD is removed if pregnancy is suspected. Some other complications are cervicitis, perforation of the uterus, salpingitis that causes sterility, ectopic pregnancy, abortion, embedding of the device in the wall of the uterus, endometritis, bleeding, pain, cramping, undetected expulsion, and irritation of the penis. Also called
Usage notes: (informal)
coil, intrauterine contraceptive device, Usage notes: (informal)
loop. device [de-vīs´]
something contrived for a specific purpose; usually a simple mechanical apparatus.
assisting d's (assistive d's) tools and implements that aid a person with a disability in carrying out mobility or activities of daily living.
intrauterine device see intrauterine device.
left ventricular assist device a circulatory support device consisting of a pump connected to an external pneumatic power source and control circuit; it has afferent and efferent conduits attached respectively to the left atrium or ventricle and the ascending aorta. Each conduit contains a porcine valve to ensure unidirectional blood flow and maintain systemic circulation when the heart is unable to do so. The device is used as a bridge to transplantation.
mobility device a device such as a wheelchair, motorized scooter, cart, or stroller that permits the disabled individual to move about and have greater access to the environment.
terminal device the end piece of a prosthesis for the upper limb; it may be a hook or a mechanical or cosmetic hand.
intrauterine [in″trah-u´ter-in]
within the uterus.
intrauterine device (IUD) (intrauterine contraceptive device) a mechanical device inserted into the uterine cavity for the purpose of contraception. These devices are made of metal, plastic, or other substances and are manufactured in various sizes and shapes. Their effectiveness is based on their alteration of the endometrium and consequent disruption of implantation; there is generally no effect on the menstrual cycle.
After the IUD has been inserted, the patient is instructed to have yearly follow-up examinations. Contraindications to insertion include recent pelvic infection, suspected pregnancy, cervical stenosis, myoma of the uterus, and abnormal uterine bleeding. IUDs are not recommended for women who have never been pregnant because of the severe pain and bleeding that they produce in the majority of these patients.
The IUD is not 100 per cent effective and its use carries some risks. The device does not prevent ovulation or extrauterine implantation; therefore, ectopic pregnancy must be suspected when irregular bleeding or pelvic pain develops in a patient with an IUD. Four to five per cent of all pregnancies occurring in women with IUDs are likely to be outside the uterus. The increased risk for pelvic inflammatory disease is from three to five times that of women who do not use an IUD. Because pelvic inflammatory disease frequently leads to an inability to conceive as a result of scarring and narrowing of the fallopian tubes, the IUD also increases the chances for infertility. Many experts advise against the use of IUDs in women under 25 years of age and in those who hope to have children later in life.
Other possible adverse effects associated with the use of IUDs include uterine perforation, which is rare, and severely increased menstrual flow. Increased dysmenorrhea and intermenstrual bleeding are common in women who have an IUD in place.
After the IUD has been inserted, the patient is instructed to have yearly follow-up examinations. Contraindications to insertion include recent pelvic infection, suspected pregnancy, cervical stenosis, myoma of the uterus, and abnormal uterine bleeding. IUDs are not recommended for women who have never been pregnant because of the severe pain and bleeding that they produce in the majority of these patients.
The IUD is not 100 per cent effective and its use carries some risks. The device does not prevent ovulation or extrauterine implantation; therefore, ectopic pregnancy must be suspected when irregular bleeding or pelvic pain develops in a patient with an IUD. Four to five per cent of all pregnancies occurring in women with IUDs are likely to be outside the uterus. The increased risk for pelvic inflammatory disease is from three to five times that of women who do not use an IUD. Because pelvic inflammatory disease frequently leads to an inability to conceive as a result of scarring and narrowing of the fallopian tubes, the IUD also increases the chances for infertility. Many experts advise against the use of IUDs in women under 25 years of age and in those who hope to have children later in life.
Other possible adverse effects associated with the use of IUDs include uterine perforation, which is rare, and severely increased menstrual flow. Increased dysmenorrhea and intermenstrual bleeding are common in women who have an IUD in place.
Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD). From Nichols and Zwelling, 1997.
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