intrauterine

enUK

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.

Intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD). From Nichols and Zwelling, 1997.

in·tra·u·ter·ine

(in'tră-yū'tĕr-in), Within the uterus.

intrauterine

(ĭn′trə-yo͞o′tər-ĭn, -tə-rīn′)adj. Occurring or situated within the uterus.

intrauterine

adjective Within the uterine cavity.

intrauterine

Within the womb (uterus).

Intrauterine

Situated or occuring in the uterus.Mentioned in: Clubfoot

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