Acanthosis Nigricans: Patches of skin that are thicker, darker, and like velvet. This condition is associated with diabetes or prediabetes.

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): A group of signs and symptoms, usually of severe infections, in a person who has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Adenomyosis: A condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow in the muscle wall of the uterus.

Glossary

Adhesions: Scarring that binds together the surfaces of tissues.

Androgens: Hormones made by the body that cause male characteristics, such as a beard and deepening voice.

Antibiotic: A drug that treats certain types of infections.

Antibodies: Proteins in the blood produced in reaction to foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses that cause infection.

Antidepressants: Drugs that are used to treat depression.

Anus: The opening of the digestive tract through which bowel movements leave the body.

Autism: A set of developmental disorders that range from mild to severe and that result in communication challenges, problems interacting with others, behavioral difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.

Bacteria: single-celled microorganisms capable of causing infections in humans.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): a condition in which an overgrowth of bacteria disrupts the normal balance of microorganisms. Vaginal discharge, a fishy odor, discomfort, itching, and burning are all possible symptoms

Bartholin Glands: Two glands positioned on either side of the vaginal opening that produce a fluid during sexual activity.

Basal Body Temperature (BBT): The temperature of the body at rest.

Benign: Not cancer.

Biopsy: A minor surgical procedure to remove a small piece of tissue. This tissue is examined under a microscope in a laboratory.

Birth Control: Devices or medications used to prevent pregnancy.

Birth Defects: Physical problems that are present at birth.

Bladder: A hollow, muscular organ in which urine is stored.

Body Mass Index (BMI): A number calculated from height and weight. BMI is used to determine whether a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.

BRCA1 and BRCA2: Genes that function in the control of cell growth. Changes in these genes have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

Calories: Units of heat used to express the fuel or energy value of food.

Cardiovascular Disease: Disease of the heart and blood vessels.

Cells: The smallest units of a structure in the body. Cells are the building blocks for all parts of the body.

Cervical Cancer: A type of cancer that is in the cervix, the opening to the uterus at the top of the vagina.

Cervix: The uterus’s bottom, narrow end at the top of the vaginal canal.

Cesarean Birth: Birth of a fetus from the uterus through an incision (cut) made in the woman’s abdomen.

Chancre: A sore caused by syphilis that is found at the place of infection.

Chlamydia: A sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. This infection can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

Cholesterol: A natural substance that is a building block for cells and hormones. This substance helps carry fat through the blood vessels for use or storage in other parts of the body.

Clitoris: A female sex organ located near the opening of the vagina.

Colposcope: A special magnifying instrument used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva.

Colposcopy: Viewing of the cervix, vulva, or vagina under magnification with an instrument called a colposcope.

Complications: Diseases or conditions that occur as a consequence of another disease or condition. An example is pneumonia that occurs as a consequence of the flu. A complication also can happen as a result of a condition, such as pregnancy. An example of a pregnancy complication is preterm labor.

Cysts: Sacs or pouches filled with fluid or other material.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A condition in which a blood clot forms in veins in the leg or other areas of the body.

Depression: Feelings of sadness for periods of at least 2 weeks.

Diabetes Mellitus: A condition in which the levels of sugar in the blood are too high.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C): A procedure that opens the cervix so tissue in the uterus can be removed using an instrument called a curette.

Disseminated Gonococcal Infection: An infection that may result from untreated infection with gonorrhea and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include fever, chills, skin sores, and pain in the wrists, fingers, knees, or toes.

Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy in a place other than the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes.

Egg: The female reproductive cell made in and released from the ovaries.

 

Ejaculates: The ejection of semen from the penis at the time of orgasm.

Emergency Contraception (EC): Methods that are used to prevent pregnancy after sex without birth control, after the method has failed, or after a rape.

Endometrial Ablation: A minor surgical procedure in which the lining of the uterus is destroyed to stop or reduce menstrual bleeding.

Endometrial Biopsy: A procedure in which a small amount of the tissue lining the uterus is removed and examined under a microscope.

Endometrial Cancer: Cancer of the lining of the uterus.

Endometrial Hyperplasia: A condition in which the lining of the uterus grows too thick.

Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue that lines the uterus is found outside of the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic structures.

Endometrium: The lining of the uterus.

Episiotomy: A surgical incision made into the perineum (the region between the vagina and the anus) to widen the vaginal opening for delivery.

Estrogen: A female hormone produced in the ovaries.

Fallopian Tubes: Tubes that transport an egg from the ovary to the uterus.

Fertilization: A process where the egg and the sperm are joined.

Fetus: The stage of human development beyond 8 completed weeks after fertilization.

Fibroids: Growths that form in the muscle of the uterus. Fibroids usually are noncancerous.

Follicles: The sac-like structures inside the ovary where eggs develop..

Genitals: The sexual or reproductive organs.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM): group of signs and symptoms brought on by a drop in estrogen and other sex hormones. Vaginal dryness, sex-related pain, bladder problems, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the signs and symptoms.

Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that starts during pregnancy.

Glucose: A sugar in the blood that is the body’s main source of fuel.

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: Medical therapy used to block the effects of certain hormones.

Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection that can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and arthritis.

Gynecologist: A doctor specialist in women’s health.

Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels located in or around the anus.

Hepatitis: Infection of the liver that can be caused by several types of viruses.

High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure above the normal level. Also called hypertension.

Hirsutism: Excessive hair on the face, abdomen, and chest.

Hormone Therapy: Treatment in which estrogen and often progestin are taken to help relieve symptoms that may happen around the time of menopause.

Hormone: natural substances produced by the body that regulate the activity of cells and organs.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A virus that attacks certain cells of the body’s immune system. If left untreated, HIV can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The name for a group of related viruses, some of which cause genital warts and some of which are linked to cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis, anus, mouth, and throat.

Hymen: A membrane at the entrance of the vaginal opening.

Hypothyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland makes too little thyroid hormone.

Hysterosalpingography: A special X-ray procedure that involves injecting a tiny volume of fluid into the uterus and fallopian tubes to look for abnormalities or determine if the tubes are clogged.

Hysteroscopy: A procedure in which a lighted telescope is inserted into the uterus through the cervix to view the inside of the uterus or perform surgery.

Immune System: The body’s natural defensive system against disease-causing viruses and germs.

Infertility: The inability to get pregnant after 1 year of having regular sexual intercourse without the use of birth control.

Inflammation: Pain, swelling, redness, and irritation of tissues in the body.

Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: A shot given to protect against the flu.

Influenza: Infection with the influenza virus, which usually affects the respiratory system. Fever, headache, muscle aches, cough, nasal congestion, and excessive exhaustion are some of the symptoms. Severe occurrences, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, can lead to complications. There are several influenza virus kinds, such as A, B, and C, as well as distinct strains, such as 18 H types and 11 N types (for example, H1N1 or “swine flu”).

Insulin: A hormone that lowers the levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

Intrauterine Device (IUD): A small device that is inserted and left inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Intrauterine Device (IUD): A small device that is inserted and left inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Abnormally low levels of iron in the blood.

Labia Majora: The outer folds of tissue of the external female genital area.

Labia Minora: The inner folds of tissue of the external female genital area.

Lactobacilli: Bacteria that can be found in large numbers in the vaginal area. These bacteria keep the vaginal pH balanced and inhibit the formation of harmful bacteria.

Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure in which a laparoscope (narrow, lighted telescope), is introduced into the abdomen through a small cut. The pelvic organs are viewed with a laparoscope. Other surgical devices can be used in conjunction with it.

Live, Attenuated Influenza Vaccine: An influenza vaccination that contains live viruses has been changed to not cause sickness. It’s administered as a nasal spray. It is not intended for women who are pregnant.

Low Birth Weight: Weighing less than 5 ½ pounds (2,500 grams) at birth.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH): A hormone made in the pituitary gland that helps an egg to be released from the ovary.

Lymph Nodes: Small groups of special tissue that carry lymph, a liquid that bathes body cells. Lymph nodes are connected to each other by lymph vessels. Together, these make up the lymphatic system.

Macrosomia: A condition in which a fetus grows more than expected, often weighing more than 8 pounds and 13 ounces (4,000 grams).

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A test to view internal organs and structures by using a strong magnetic field and sound waves.

Mammography: A procedure in which X-rays of the breast are used to detect breast cancer.

Masturbation: Self-stimulation of the genitals, usually resulting in orgasm.

Meningitis: Inflammation of the covering of the brain or spinal cord.

Menopause: The time in a woman’s life when menstruation stops; defined as the absence of menstrual periods for 1 year.

Menstrual Cycle: The monthly series of changes that occur to prepare a woman’s body for prospective pregnancy. A menstrual cycle is defined as the first day of menstrual bleeding of one cycle to the first day of menstrual bleeding of the next cycle.

Menstrual Period: Blood and tissue from the uterus that sheds every month

Menstruation: The monthly shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus that happens when a woman is not pregnant.

Metabolic Syndrome: A combination of problems, that can lead to diabetes and heart disease. These problems include high blood pressure, waist circumference of 35 inches or greater (in women), higher-than-normal blood sugar level, lower-than-normal levels of “good” cholesterol, and high levels of fats in the blood (triglycerides).

Microorganisms: Life forms that are invisible to the naked eye and can only be seen with a microscope. Bacteria are an example.

Miscarriage: Loss of a pregnancy that is in the uterus.

Mutations: Permanent changes in genes that can be passed from parent to child.

Myomectomy: Surgery to uterine fibroids only, leaving the uterus in place.

Neural Tube Defects (NTDs): Birth defects that result from a problem in development of the brain, spinal cord, or their coverings.

Neurological: Related to the nervous system.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Drugs that relieve pain by reducing inflammation. Many types are available over the counter, including ibuprofen and naproxen.

Obesity: A condition characterized by excessive body fat.

Obstetric Care Provider: A health care professional who cares for a woman during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. These professionals include obstetrician–gynecologists (ob-gyns), certified nurse–midwives (CNMs), maternal–fetal medicine specialists (MFMs), and family practice doctors with experience in maternal care.

Obstetrician: A physician who specializes in caring for women during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period.

Obstetrician–Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn): A doctor specialist in women’s health.

Opioids: Drugs that decrease the ability to feel pain.

Osteoporosis: A condition of thin bones that could allow them to break more easily.

Ovaries: female organs that carry the eggs needed to conceive and produce vital hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Ovulation: The time when an ovary releases an egg.

Pelvic Exam: A physical examination of a woman’s pelvic organs.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): An infection of the upper female genital tract.

Pelvis: The lower portion of the trunk of the body.

Penis: The male sex organ.

Perimenopause: The time period leading up to menopause.

Perineum: The area between the vagina and the anus.

Peritoneum: The membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and surrounds the internal organs.

Pituitary Gland: A gland located near the brain that controls growth and other changes in the body.

Pneumonia: An infection of the lungs.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A condition that leads to a hormone imbalance that affects a woman’s monthly menstrual periods, ovulation, ability to get pregnant, and metabolism.

Polyps: Abnormal tissue growths that can develop on the inside of an organ.

Preeclampsia: A disorder that can occur during pregnancy or after childbirth in which there is high blood pressure and other signs of organ injury. These signs include an abnormal amount of protein in the urine, a low number of platelets, abnormal kidney or liver function, pain over the upper abdomen, fluid in the lungs, or a severe headache or changes in vision.

Prepregnancy Care: Medical care that is given before pregnancy to improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. This care includes a physical exam; counseling about nutrition, exercise, and medications; and treatment of certain medical conditions.

Preterm: Born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Progesterone: A female hormone that is made in the ovaries and prepares the lining of the uterus for pregnancy.

Progestin: synthetic version of progesterone that is equivalent to the hormone that the body produces naturally.

Puberty: The stage of life when the reproductive organs start to function and other sex features develop. For women, this is the time when menstrual periods start and the breasts develop.

Rectum: The last part of the digestive tract.

Reproductive Endocrinologist: An obstetrician–gynecologist with special training to manage disorders related to hormones of the reproductive system. These specialists also treat infertility.

Screening Test: Test that looks for possible signs of disease in people who do not have signs or symptoms.

Scrotum: The external genital sac in the male that contains the testicles.

Sexual Intercourse: The act of the penis of the male entering the vagina of the female. Also called “having sex” or “making love.”

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): An infection that is spread by sexual contact, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes, syphilis, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the cause of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]).

Skene Glands: Glands located on either side of the urethra and urethral opening.

Sleep Apnea: A disorder that causes interruptions of breathing during sleep.

Sonohysterography: A procedure in which sterile fluid is injected into the uterus through the cervix while ultrasound images are taken of the inside of the uterus.

Speculum: An instrument used to hold open the walls of the vagina.

Sperm: a cell that is produced in the testicles and has the ability to fertilize an egg.

Spermicides: Chemicals (creams, gels, foams) that inactivate sperm.

Sterilization: A permanent method of birth control.

Stillbirth Birth of a dead fetus.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) The unexpected death of an infant in which the cause is unknown.

Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by an organism called Treponema pallidum. This infection may cause major health problems or death in its later stages.

Testicles: Paired male organs that produce sperm and the male sex hormone testosterone. Also called “testes.”

Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine A shot that protects again tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).

Thimerosal: A preservative used in some vaccines.

Thyroid Gland: A butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck in front of the windpipe. This gland makes, stores, and releases thyroid hormone, which controls the body’s metabolism and regulates how parts of the body work.

Tranexamic Acid: A medication prescribed to treat or prevent heavy bleeding.

Trichomoniasis: A type of vaginal infection caused by a parasite. This infection is passed through sex.

Ultrasound Exam: A test in which sound waves are used to examine internal structures.

Ureters: A pair of tubes, each leading from one of the kidneys to the bladder.

Urethra: a tube-like structure in the body. When urine leaves the body, it passes through this tube.

Urologist: A physician who specializes in treating problems of the kidneys, bladder, and male reproductive system.

Uterine Artery Embolization: A procedure to block the blood vessels to the uterus. This procedure is used to stop bleeding after delivery. It is also used to stop other causes of bleeding from the uterus.

Uterus: a muscle organ that is in the female pelvic. This organ holds and feeds the fetus throughout pregnancy.

Vaccination: Giving a vaccine to help the body’s natural immune system develop protection from a disease.

Vaccines: Substances that help the body fight disease. Vaccines are made from very small amounts of weak or dead agents that cause disease (bacteria, toxins, and viruses).

 

Vagina: A tube-like structure surrounded by muscles. The vagina leads from the uterus to the outside of the body.

Varicose Veins: Swollen, twisted veins that are often caused by poor blood flow.

Vestibule: The tissue surrounding the opening of the vagina.

Virus: An agent that causes certain types of infections.

Vulva: The external female genital area.

Yeast Infection: An infection caused by an overgrowth of a fungus. Symptoms may include itching, burning, and irritation of the vulva or vagina and a thick, white discharge.