The fetus grows inside the uterus (in an intrauterine environment). An intrauterine device (IUD) is an object placed in the uterus to prevent conception and pregnancy.
Reviewer Info: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 08/17/2007