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Definition

Intrauterine means "inside the uterus."

Information

A baby grows inside the mother's womb or uterus. This is called an intrauterine pregnancy.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is an object placed in the uterus to prevent conception and pregnancy.

Gallery

Female reproductive anatomy
External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries, and cervix.
Uterus
The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.

References

Nunziato JD, Valea FA. Reproductive anatomy: gross and microscopic, clinical correlations. In: Gershenson DM, Lentz GM, Valea FA, Lobo RA, eds. Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier;2022:chap 3.

Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Company; 2021. www.tabers.com/tabersonline/view/Tabers-Dictionary/760790/all/intrauterine. Accessed October 20, 2023.

Last reviewed October 1, 2025 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

Related specialties

Clinical trials: Intrauterine

UF Health research scientists make medicine better every day. They discover new ways to help people by running clinical trials. When you join a clinical trial, you can get advanced medical care. Sometimes years before it's available everywhere. You can also help make medicine better for everyone else. If you'd like to learn more about clinical trials, visit our clinical trials page. Or click one of the links below:

GLP-1 and endometroid endometrial adenocarcinoma

This study will explore the use of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) used concurrently with levonorgestrel intrauterine device in patients with poor surgical candidacy for a hysterectomy or patients who are pursuing fertility…

Investigator
Kaitlin M Nicholson
Status
Accepting Candidates
Ages
18 Years - N/A
Sexes
Female

News and patient stories: Intrauterine

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