National Cancer Institute Thesaurus

Last uploaded: February 23, 2024
Id http://ncicb.nci.nih.gov/xml/owl/EVS/Thesaurus.owl#C42771
http://ncicb.nci.nih.gov/xml/owl/EVS/Thesaurus.owl#C42771
Preferred Name

Intrauterine Device

Definitions
A device usually made of plastic or metal, inserted into the uterus to prevent conception. IUCD can be a coil, loop, triangle, or T in shape; its material can be impregnated with a pharmaceutical agent. The primary action of all IUCDs is the induction of a foreign-body reaction within the endometrium. This sterile inflammatory process is toxic to gametes, primarily spermatozoa, and effectively prevents viable sperm from passing into the fallopian tubes. The copper-bearing device has an independent toxic effect on spermatozoa. The progestin-releasing devices produce changes in endometrial architecture and function that reduce the potential for implantation of a fertilized egg. The progestin effect on the cervical mucus also reduces the penetrability of sperm.
Synonyms
Intrauterine Device
Intrauterine Contraceptive Device
intrauterine device
IUCD
IUD
Type http://www.w3.org/2002/07/owl#Class
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