contraception

[kon-truh-sep-shuhn]

noun

1. the deliberate prevention of conception or impregnation by any of various drugs, techniques, or devices; birth control.

   Patients in this study must agree to practice contraception for the duration of their participation.

2. a drug, technique, or device used to deliberately prevent conception or impregnation.

   You can also request free contraception by undergoing a simple, secure online consultation.

   Hormonal contraception, like any other medication, can interact with other drugs being taken.

contraception

/ ˌkɒntrəˈsɛpʃən /

noun

1. the intentional prevention of conception by artificial or natural means. Artificial methods in common use include preventing the sperm from reaching the ovum (using condoms, diaphragms, etc), inhibiting ovulation (using oral contraceptive pills), preventing implantation (using intrauterine devices), killing the sperm (using spermicides), and preventing the sperm from entering the seminal fluid (by vasectomy). Natural methods include the rhythm method and coitus interruptus Compare birth control family planning

contraception

1. Any practice that serves to prevent conception during sexual activity.

Word History and Origins

Origin of contraception¹

First recorded in 1885–90; contra- ¹ ( def. ) + (con)ception

Word History and Origins

Origin of contraception¹

C19: from _contra- + _conception

Example Sentences

A few cases of forced contraception also took place after this time, and as late as 2018, as the BBC has previously reported.

From BBC

California is not being accused of failing to carry out the abstinence and contraception instruction funded by the grant.

From Los Angeles Times

The International Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine offers an endless array of programs peddling falsehoods about contraception, even implying it distorts women’s ability to choose a good partner.

From Salon

Zoos in other countries that baboons had previously been sent to had also reached capacity and contraception measures had failed to slow the population growth, the zoo said.

From BBC

Medical experts and reproductive health groups note that while some anti-abortion advocates classify IUDs and emergency contraception as “abortifacients,” these products prevent pregnancy and are not abortion-inducing.

From Salon

Related Words

• abstinence 
• condom 
• contraceptive 
• diaphragm 
• family planning 
• pill 
• vasectomy