contraception
noun
[ kɒntrəˈsɛpʃ(ə)n ]
• the deliberate use of artificial methods or other techniques to prevent pregnancy as a consequence of sexual intercourse. The major forms of artificial contraception are: barrier methods, of which the commonest is the condom or sheath; the contraceptive pill, which contains synthetic sex hormones which prevent ovulation in the female; intrauterine devices, such as the coil, which prevent the fertilized ovum from implanting in the uterus; and male or female sterilization.
• "one of the most important methods of contraception"
Origin:
late 19th century: from contra- ‘against’ + a shortened form of conception.
