contraception
[ kon-truh-sep-shuh n ]
/ ˌkɒn trəˈsɛp ʃən /
noun
the deliberate prevention of conception or impregnation by any of various drugs, techniques, or devices; birth control.
Origin of contraception
First recorded in 1885–90;
contra-1 +
(con)ception
Words nearby contraception
Example sentences from the Web for contraception
British Dictionary definitions for contraception
contraception
/ (ˌkɒntrəˈsɛpʃən) /
noun
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
Word Origin for contraception
C19: from
contra- +
conception
Medical definitions for contraception
contraception
[ kŏn′trə-sĕp′shən ]
n.
Intentional prevention of conception or impregnation through the use of various devices, agents, drugs, sexual practices, or surgical procedures.