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chapter 12 medical terminology
female reproductive system
127
Anatomy
Graduate
10/10/2009

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Term
external genitalia
Definition
the sex or reproductive organs visible on the outside of the body, also called genitals. The external female genitalia, also know as the vulva (labia minora, labia majora, clitoris, Bartholin glands, and mons pubis. Male genetailia include penis, scrotum, and testicles
Term
gestation
Definition
gest: pregnancy
-ation: process of
Length of time from conception to birth
The human gestational period typically extends approximately 280 days from the last menstrual period. Gestation (pregnancy) of less than 36 weeks is regarded as premature.
Term
lactation
Definition
lact: milk
-ation: process of.
Production and releasee of milk by mammary glands.
Term
orifice
Definition
mouth; entrance or outlet of any anatomical structure.
Term
puerperium
Definition
Time after childbirth that lasts approximately 6 weeks, during which the anatomical and physiological changes brought about by pregnancy resolve and a woman adjusts to the new or expanded responsibilities of motherhood and nonpregnant life.
Term
ovaries
Definition
almond-shaped glands located in the pelvic cavity, one on each side of the uterus. Each oveary contains thousands of tiny, saclike structures called graafian follicles, each containing an ovum. When an ovum ripens, the mature follicle moves to the surface of the ovary, ruptures, and releases the ovum; a process called ovulation. After ovulation, the empty follicle is transformed into a structure called the corpus luteum, a small yellow mass that secrets eestrogen and progesterone. The corpus luteum degenerates at the end of a non-fertile cycle. Estrogen and progenterone influence the menstrual cycle and menopause. They also prepare the uterus for implantation of the fertilized egg, help maintain pregnancy, promote growth of the placenta, and play an important role in development of secondary sex characteristics.
Term
Fallopian tubes (oviducts, uterine tubes)
Definition
Extend laterally from superior angles of the uterus. The fimbriae are fingerlike projections that create wavelike currents in fluid surrounding the ovary to move the ovum into the uterine tube. If the egg unites with a spermatozoon, the male reproductive cell, fertilization or conception takes place. If conception does not occur, the ovum disintegrates within 48 hours and is discharged through the vagina.
Term
uterus
Definition
contains and nourishes the embryo from teh time fertilized egg is implanted utnil the fetus is born. It is a muscular, hollow, inverted pear shaped structure located in the pelvic area between the bladder and rectum. The uterus is normally in a position of anteflexion (bent forward) and consists of 3 parts: the fundus - the upper rounded part, the body, the central part, and the cervix also called the neck of the uterus or cervix uteri - the inferior constricted portion that opens into the vagina.
Term
vagina
Definition
muscular tube that extends from the cervix to the exterior of the body. Its lining consists of folds of mucous membrane that give the organ an elastic quality. During sexual excitement, the vaginal orificce is lubricated by secretions from Bartholin glands. In addition to serving as the organ of sexual intercourse and receptor of semen, the vagina discharges menstrual flow. it also acts as a passageway for the delivery of the fetus. The clitoris, located anterior to the vaginal orifice, is composed of eretile tisue that is richly innervated with sensory endings. The clit is similar in structure to the penis in the male, but is smaller and has no urethra. The area between the vaginal orifice and the anus is known as the perineum. during childbirth, this area may be surgically incised to enlarge the vaginal opening for delivery. If the incision is made, the procedure is called an episiotomy.
Term
menstrual cycle Days 1-5
Definition
uterine endometrium sloughs off because of hormonal stimulation; a process that is accompanied by bleeding. The detached tissue and blood are discharged through the vagina as menstrual flow.
Term
Menstrual cycle: ovulatory - days 6-14
Definition
When menstruation ceases, the endometrium begins to thicken as new tissue is rebuilt. As estrogen level rises, several ova begin to mature in the graafian follicles with only one ovum reaching full maturity. At about the 14th day of the cycle, the graafian follicle ruptures, releasing the egg, a process called ovulation. The egg then leaves the ovary and travels down the fallopian tube toward the uterus.
Term
Menstrual cycle: postovulatory Days 15-28
Definition
The empty graafian follicle fills with a yellow material and is now called the corpus luteum. Secretions of estrogen and progesterone by the corpus luteum stimulate the building of the endometrium in preparation for imiplantation of an embryo. If fertilzation does not occur, the corpus luteum begins to degenerate as estrogen and progesterone levels decline. With decreased hormone levels, the uterine lining begins to shed, the menstrual cycle starts over again, and the first day of menstruation starts.
Term
amni/o
Definition
amnion (amniotic sac)
i.e. amniocentesis: surgical puncture of the amniotic sac. Amniocentesis is a transabdominal puncture performed under ultrasound guidance using a needle and syringe to remove amniotic fluid.
Term
cervic/o
Definition
neck; cervix uteri (neck of the uterus)
Cervicitis: inflammation of the cervix.
Term
colp/o
vagin/o
Definition
vagina
i.e. colposcopy: visual exam of the vagina
vaginocele: vaginal hernia; also caled colpocele.
Term
galact/o
lact/o
Definition
milk
i.e. galactopoiesis: production of milk
lactogen: forming or producing milk.
Lactogen refers to any substance that stimulates milk production, such as a hormone.
Term
gynec/o
Definition
woman, female
i.e. gynecologist
Term
hyster/o
metri/o
uter/o
Definition
uterus (womb)
hysterectomy: excision of the uterus
endometrial: pertaining to the lining of the uterus
uterovaginal: relating to the uterus and vagina
Term
mamm/o
mast/o
Definition
breast
mammogram: radiograph of the breast
mastopexy: reconstructive, cosmetic surgery performed to affix sagging breasts in a more elevated position, commonly improving their shape
Term
men/o
Definition
menses, menstruation
menorrhagia: bursting forth of the menses. Menorrhagia is an excessive amount of menstrual flow over a longer duration than normal
Term
metr/o
Definition
uterus (womb); measure. Metroptosis: prolapse or downward displacement of the uterus.
-ptosis: prolapse, downward displacement
Term
nat/o
Definition
birth
prenatal: pertaining to before birth
Term
oophor/o
ovari/o
Definition
ovary
i.e. oophoroma: ovarian tumor
ovariorrhexis: rupture of an ovary
-rrhexis: rupture.
Term
perine/o
Definition
perineum
i.e. perineorrhaphy: suture of the perineum
-rrhaphy: suture
Perineorrhaphy is used to repair an episiotomy or a laceration that occurs during delivery of the fetus.
Term
salping/o
Definition
tube (usually fallopian or eustachian)
i.e. sapingoplasty
Term
-arche
Definition
beginning
menarche: beginning of menstruation
Term
-cyesis
Definition
pregnancy
pseudocyesis: false pregnancy
pseudocyesis, also called false pregnancy, is a condition in which a woman develops bodily changes consistent with pregnancy when she is not pregnant
Term
-gravida
Definition
pregnant woman
multigravida: woman who has been pregnant more than once.
Term
-para
Definition
to bear (offspring)
nullipara: woman who has never produced a viable offspring
nulli: none
Term
-salpinx
Definition
tube (ussually fallopian or eustachian)
i.e. hemosalpinx: blood in a fallopian tube; also called hematosalpinx
Hemosalpinx refers to a collection of blood in a fallopian tube, commonly associated with a tubal pregnancy.
Term
-tocia
Definition
childbirth, labor
dystocia: difficult childbirth
Term
-version
Definition
turning
i.e. retroversion: tipping or turning back of an organ
Retroversion of the uterus occurs in one of every four otherwise healthy women.
Term
ante-
Definition
before, in front of
anteversion: tipping or turning forward of an organ
Term
endo-
Definition
in, within
i.e. endometritis: inflammation of tissue within the uterus
Term
multi-
Definition
many, much
multipara: woman who has delivered more than one viable infant
-para: to bear
Term
post-
Definition
after
postnatal: occuring after birth
nat: birth
Term
primi-
Definition
first
i.e. primigravida: woman during her first pregnancy
-gravida: pregnant woman.
Term
metrorrhagia
Definition
Irregular uterine bleeding between menstrual periods or after menopause is usually symptomatic of diseasee, including benign or malignant uterine tumors
Profuse or prolonged bleeding during regular menstruation (menorrhagia or hypermenorrhea_ may during early life be caused by endocrine disturbances. however, in later life, it is usually due to inflammatory diseases, fibriods, tumors, or emotional disturbances.
Term
Premenstrual syndrome
Definition
c/o H.a. and fatigue to mood changes, anxiety, depression, uncontrolled crying spells, and water retention. occurs severla days before the onset of menstruation and ends when menses begins or a short time after and appears to be related to hormonal change. increase in exercise and reduction in caffeine, salt, and alcohol use may be beneficial.
Term
Endometriosis
Definition
presence of functional endometrial tissue in areas outside of the uterus. The endometrial tissue develops into what are called implants, lesions, or growths and can cause pain, infertility, and other problems. The ectopic tissue is usually confined to the pelvic area but may appear anywhere in the abdominopelvic cavity. Like normal endometrial tissue, the ectopic endometirum responds to hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle.
Term
Pelvic Inflammatory disease (PID)
Definition
general term for inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and adjacent pelvic structures and is usually caused by bacterial infection. The infection may be confined to a single organ or it may involve all the internal reproductive organs. the disease producing organisms (pathogens) generally enter through the vagina during coitus, induced abortion, childbirth, or the postpartum period. As an ascending infection, the pathogens spread from the vagina and cervix to the upper structures of teh female reproductive tract. Two of the most common causes of PID are gonorrhea and chlamydial infection, which are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Unless treated promptly, PID may result in scarring of the narrow fallopian tubes and the ovaries, causing sterility. The widespread infection of the reproductive structures can also lead to fatal septicemia. Because regions of the uterine tubes have an internal diameter slightly larger than the width of a human hair, the scarring and closure of the tube is one of the major causes of female infertility.
Term
Vaginitis
Definition
localized infections and inflammations occur from viruses, bacteria, or yeast. If confined to the vagina, these infections are called vaginitis. s/s genital itching, painful intercourse, and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. It is not uncommon for vaginitis to be accompanied by urethral inflammation (urethritis) because of the proximty of the urethra to the vagina. Two of the most common types of vaginitis are candidiasis and trichomoniasis. Candidiasis, also called moniliasis, is caused by Candida albicans, a yeast that is present as part of the normal flora of the vagina. Steroid therapy, diabetes, or pregnancy may cause a change in the vaginal environment that disrupts the normal flora and promotes the overgrowth of this organism resulting in a yeast (fungal) infection. The use of antibiotics may also disrupt the normal balance of microorganisms in the vagina by destroying friendly bacteria, thus allowing the overpopulation of yeast. Antifungal agents (mycostatics) that suppress the growth of fungi are used to treat this disease. Trichomoniasis, casued by the protozoan "trichomoas vaginalis" is now known to be the most common causes of sexually transmitted lower genital tract infections.
Term
Gonorrhea
Definition
caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoea. It involves the mucosal surface of the genitourinary tract and possibly the rectum and pharynx. s/s: greenish yellow cervical discharge. The organism may infect the eyes of the newborn during delivery, which may result in blindness. As a precaution, silver nitrate is instilled in the eyes of newborns immediately after delivery as preventative measure. s/s in males is discharge of pus from the penis, inflammation of the urethra (urethritis) may cause cystitis, arthritis, and sterility due to formation of scars.
Term
syphilis
Definition
caused by infection with the bacterium Treponema pallidum. If untreated, may cause chronic infectious, multisystemic disease. Syphilis is characterized by three distinct phases. 1. primary sore (chancre) develops at the point where the organism enters the body. The chancre is an ulcerated sore with hard edges that contains contagious organisms. 2. variety of symptoms that make diagnosis of the disease difficult. 3. latent phase whereby the disease may remain dormant for years. Although there may be no symptoms of the disease during this time, the patient is nevertheless infectious. Symptoms may include blindness, insanity, and eventual death. Treatment with antibiotic therapy is effective.
Term
Chlamydia
Definition
infection with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, is the most prevalent and one of the most damaging STDs in the US. In women s/s mucopurulent discharge and inflammation of the cervix uteri (cervicitis) that may lead to PID. Chlamydia can be transmitted to the newborn baby during the birth process and cause a form of conjunctivits or pneumnoia. In men s/s whitish discharge from penis that may lead to urethritis or epididymitis. tx. antibiotics.many cases are asymptomatic.
Term
Genital Herpes
Definition
red, blisterlike, painful lesions that closely resemble the common fever blister or cold sore that appears on the lips and around the mouth. Genital herpes associated with type 2 (HSV-2), oral herpes type 1 (HSV-1). Disease associated with a phenomeno called viral shedding - virus is present on the skin of the infected patient and can be transmitted to sexual partners, even when no lesions are present.
Term
Genital Warts (condylomas)
Definition
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). of the 100 identified types, only about 30 are spread through sexual contact. The warts may be very small and almost unnoticeable or may be large and appear in clusters. In females, the lesions may be found on the vulva, in the vagina, or on the cervix. In males, he lesions commonly appear on the penis or around the recturm. Many warts disappear without treatment, but there is no way to determine which ones will resolve. When treatment is required, surgical excision or freezing the wart is the usual method. HPV infection has been found to increase the risk of certain cancers, including penile, vaginal, cervical, and anal cancer. Increases risk of miscarriage.
Term
Trichomoniasis
Definition
caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis, affects men and women, but symptoms are more common in women. s/s vaginitis, urethritis, and cystitis. s/s frothy yellow-green vaginal discharge with a strong odor. The infection may also cause discomfort during intercourse and urination. Irritation and itching in the female genital area nad lower ab. pain. In men, irritation inside the penis, mild discharge, or slight burning after urination or ejaculation.
Term
Uterine Fibroids
Definition
30-40% of women develop benign tumors called fibroids , aka leimyomas or myomas. develop slowly bw ages 25-40 and commonly enlarge in response to fluctuating endocrine stimulation after this period. Although some individuals are asymptomatic with these types of tumors, wehn present they include menorrhagia, backache, constipation, and urinary symptoms. In addition, such tumors commonly cause metrorrhagia and sterility.
Term
Breast cancer - carcinoma of the breast
Definition
most common malignancy of women in the united states. associated with ovarian hormonal funciton. Diet high in fats appears to increase the incidence of breast cancer. Other contributing factors include a family history of the disease, and possibly the use of hormoe replacement therapy (HRT). Women who have not borne children nulliparous or those who have had an early onset of menstruation (menarche) or late onset of menopause are more likely to develop breast cancer.
Term
Cervical cancer
Definition
affects women usu. bw ages 40-49. Statistics indicate that infection associated with sexual activity has some relationship to the incidence of cerical cancer. First coits at a young age, large number of sex partners, infection of STviruses, and frequent intercourse with men whose previous partners had cervical cancer are all associated with increased risk of developing cervical cancer. Pap test detects cervical cancer before the disease becomes clinically evident. Abnormal cervial cytology routinely calls for coposcopy, which can detect the presence and extent of preclinical lesions requireing biopsy and hsitological examination. Tx of cervical cancer consists of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Term
Adnexa
Definition
Accessory parts of a structure
adnexa uteri are the ovaries and fallopian tubes
Term
atresia
Definition
congenital absence or closure of a normal body opening such as the vagina.
Term
choriocarcinoma
chori/o: chorion
carcin: cancer
oma: tumor
Definition
malignant neoplasm of the uterus or at the site of an ectopic pregnancy. Although its actual cause is unknown, choriocarcinoma is a rare tumore tha may occur after pregnancy or abortion.
Term
contraceptive diaphragm
Definition
contraceptive device consisting of a hemisphere of thin rubber bonded to a flexible ring; inserted into the vagina together with spremicidal jelly or cream up to 2 hours before coitus so that spermatozoa cannot enter the uterus, thus preventing conception.
Term
corpus luteum
Definition
ovarian scar tissue that results from rupturing of a follicle during ovulation and becomes a small yellow body that produces progesterone after ovulation
Term
dyspareunia
Definition
occurance of pain during sexual intercourse.
Term
endocervicitis
Definition
inflammation of the mucuous lining of the cervix uteri. Endocervicitis is usally chronic, commonly due to infection, and accompainied by cervical erosion.
Term
fibroids
Definition
Benign uterine tumors composed of muscle and fibrous tissue, also called leiomyomas (myomas) and fibromyomata uteri. Myomectomy or hysterectomy may be indicated if the fibroids grow too large, causing such symptoms as metrorrhagia, pelvic pain, and menorrhagia.
Term
infertility
Definition
inability or diminished ability to produce offspring.
Term
hormonal contraception
Definition
use of hormones to suppress ovulation and prevent conception.
Term
menarche
Definition
beginning of menstrual function
Term
oligomenorrhea
Definition
scanty of infrequent menstrual flow
Term
perineum
Definition
region between the vulva and anus that constitutes the pelvic floor
Term
puberty
Definition
period during which secondary sex characteristics begin to develop and the capability of sexual reproduction is attained.
Term
pyosalpinx
Definition
pus in the fallopian tube
Term
retroversion
Definition
turning or state of being turned back, especially an entire organ, such as the uterus, being tipped from its normal position
Term
sterility
Definition
inability of the female to become pregnant or the male to impregnate the female
Term
vaginismus
Definition
painful spasm of the vagina from contraction of its surrounding muscles
Term
viable
Definition
capable of sustaining life; denotes a fetus sufficientyly developed to live outside of the uterus. A viable infant is one who at live birth weighs at least 500g or is 24 weeks or more of gestational age. Because an infant is determined viable does not mean the baby is born alive.
Term
abortion
Definition
termination of pregnancy before the embryo or fetus is capable of surviving outside the uterus
Term
abruptio placentae
Definition
premature separation of a normally situated placenta
Term
amnion
Definition
membrane, continuous with and covering the fetal side of the placenta, that forms the outer surface of the umbilical cord. The fetus is suspended in amniotic fluid.
Term
beech presentation
Definition
common abnormality of delivery in which the fetal buttocks or feet present first rather than the head.
Term
Down syndrome, trisomy 21
Definition
Congenital condition characterized by physical malformations and some degree of mental retardation. Trisomy 21 is the occurrence of three copies of chromosome 21 rather than 2 copies and occurs in about 1 or 700 live births. The terms Down syndrome and trisomy 21 are preferred to the term mongolism.
Term
dystocia
Definition
Difficult labor, which may be produced by the large size of the fetus, or the small size of the pelvic outlet.
Term
eclampsia
Definition
most serious form of toxemia during pregnancy. Signs of eclampsia include high blood pressure, edema, convulsions, renal dysfunction, proteinuira, and in severe cases, coma.
Term
ectopic pregnancy
Definition
pregnancy in which the fertilized ovum does not reach the uterine cavity but becomes implanted on any tissue other than the lining of the uterine cavity, such as a fallopian tube, an ovary, the abdomen, or even the cervix uteri. Kinds of ectopic pregnancy include abdominal pregnancy, ovarian pregnancy, and tubal pregnancy.
Term
gravida
Definition
pregnant woman. The term gravida may be followed by numbers, indicating number of pregnancies, such as gravida 1, 2, 3, 4, or I, II, III, IV, and so forth
Term
multigravida
Definition
woman who has been pregnant more than once.
Term
multipara
Definition
woman who has delivered more than one viable infant
Term
para
Definition
woman who has given birth to one or more viable infants. Para followed by a Roman numeral or preceded by a latin prefix -i.e. quadri, designates the number of times a pregnancy has culminated in a single or multiple birth. i.e. para 1 and primipara refer to a woman who has given brith for the first time. Para II..etc. Whether the births were multiple (twins) is irrelevant.
Term
parturition
Definition
process of giving birth
Term
pelvimetry
(metry: aact of measuring
Definition
Measurement of pelvic dimensions to determine whether the head of the fetus will be able to pass through the bony pelvis during the delivery process. Measurement of the pelvis is usually determined by ultrasound during the early part of pregnanyc. X-ray pelvimetry may be performed late in the pregnancy or during labor if more precise measurements are needed. The size of the pelvic outlet determines whether or not the baby is delivered vaginaly or by c section
Term
placenta previa
Definition
condition in which the placenta is attached near the cervix and ruptures prematurely, with spotting as the early symptom. Prevention of hemorrhage may necessitate a cesarean delivery.
Term
primigravida
Definition
woman pregnant for the first time
Term
primipara
Definition
woman who has given birth to one viable infant, her first child, indicated by the notation para I on the patient's chart.
Term
puerperium
Definition
Period of 42 days after childbirth and expulsion of the placenta and membranes, during which the reproductive organs usually return to normal.
Term
amniocentesis
Definition
Transabdominal puncture of the amniotic sac under ultrasound guidance using a needle and syringe to remove amniotic fluid. The sample obtained in amniocentesis is chemically and cytologically studied to detect genetic and biochemical disorders and fetal maturity. The procedure also enables transfusion of platelets or blood to the fetus and instillation of drugs for treating the fetus.
Term
insufflation
Definition
Deleivery of pressurized air or gas into a cavity, chamber, or organ to allow visual examination, remove an obstruction, or apply medication. Insufflation is performed to increase the distance between structures so the physician can see more clearly and better diagnose possible disorders. Tubal insufflation: test for patency of the uterine tubes made possible by transuterine insufflation with carbon dioxide; also called Rubin test.
Term
colposcopy
Definition
colp/o: vagina
Visual exam of the vagina and cervix with an optical manifying instrument (coposcospe). Colposcopy is used chiefly to identify areas of cervical dysplasia in women with abnormal Papanicolaou tests and as an aid in biopsy or excision procedures includeing cautery, cryotherapy, and loop electrosurgical excision.
Term
laparoscopy
lapar/o = abdomen
Definition
Visual examination of the abdominal cavity with a laparoscope through one or more small incisions in the abdominal wall, usually at the umbilicus. Laparoscopy has become a standard technique for many routine surgical procedures, including gynecological sterilization by fulguration of the oviducts and tubal ligation.
Term
chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Definition
Sampling of placental tissues for prenatal diagnosis of potential genetic defects. In CVS, the sample is obtained through a catheter inserted into the uterus. The advantage of CVS over amniocentesis is that is can be undertaken in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Term
endometrial biopsy
Definition
endo: in, within
metri: uterus (womb); measure
Removal of a sample of uterine endometrium for microscopic study. Endometrial biopsy is commonly used in fertility assessment to confirm ovulation and as a diagnostic tool to determine the cause of dysfunctional and postmenopausal bleeding.
Term
Papanicolaou (Pap) test
Definition
Cytological study used to detect abnormal cells sloughed from the cervix and vagina, usually obtained during routine pelvic exam. A pap test is commonly used to screen for and diagnose cervical cancer. It may also be used to evaluate cells from any organ, such as the pleura and peritoneum, and to detect changes that indicate malignancy.
Term
mammography
Definition
Radiographic examination of the breast to screen for breast cancer. Mammography is used to detect tumors, cysts, and microcalcifications and may help locate a malignant lesion.
Term
hysterosalpingography
Definition
hyster/o: uterus
salping/o: tube
Radiography of the uterus and uterine tubes (oviducts) following injection of a contrast medium. Hysterosalpingography is used to determine pathology in the uterine cavity, evaluate tubal patency, and determine the cause of infertility.
Term
ultrasonography (US)
Definition
Process by which high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) produce and display an image from reflected echoes on a monitor; also called ultrasound , sonography and echo.
Term
Pelvic ultrasonography
Definition
US of the pelvic region used to evaluate abnormalities of the female reproductive system as well as the fetus in the obstetric patient.
Term
Transvaginal US
Definition
US of teh pelvic area performed with a probe inserted into the vagina, which provides sharper images of pathological and normal structures within the pelvis.
Term
breast implant revision
Definition
Surgery designed to correct an unsuccessful procedure that has created a cosmetic problem or poses a health risk. Breast implant revision is commonly performed to replace older silicone implants with new saline-filled implants.
Term
cerclage
Definition
Suturing the cervix to prevent it from dilating prematurely during pregnancy, thus decreasing the chance of a spontaneous abortion. The sutures are removed prior to delivery. Cerclage is sometimes referred to as a purse string procedure.
Term
cesarean birth
Definition
incision of the abdomen and uterus to remove the fetus; also called C-section. Cesarean birth is most commonly used in the event of cephalopelvic disproportion , presence of sexually transmitted disease, fetal distress, and breech presentation.
Term
colpocleisis
colp/o: vagina
Cleisis: closure
Definition
surgical closure of the vaginal canal
Term
conization
Definition
excision of a cone-shaped piece of tissue, such as mucosa of the cervix, for histological examination.
Term
cordocentesis
Definition
sampling of fetal blood drawn from the umbilical vein and performed under ultrasound guidance. Cord blood is evaluated in the laboratory to identify hemolytic diseases or genetic abnormalities.
Term
cryosurgery
Definition
Process of freezing tissue to destroy cells; also called cryocautery. Cryosurgery is used for chronic cervical infections and erosions because offending organisms may be entrenched in cervical cells and glands. The process destroys these infected areas, and, in the healing process, normal cells are replenished.
Term
dilation and curettage (D&C)
Definition
Widening of the cervical canal with a dilator and scraping of the uterine endometrium with a curette. D&C is used to obtain a sample for cytological exam of tissue, control abnormal uterine bleeding, and treat incomplete abortion.
Term
episiorrhaphy
Definition
episi/o= vulva
repair of a lacerated vulva or an epiostomy
Term
peisiotomy
Definition
Incision of the perineum from the vaginal orifice usually done to prevent tearing of the tissue and to facilitate childbirth.
Term
hysterectomy
Definition
Excision of the uterus. Indications for hysterectomy include abnormalities of the uterus and cervix (cancer, severe dysfunctional bleeding, large or bleeding fibroid tumors, prolase of the uterus, or severe endometriosis. The approach to excision may be abdominal or vaginal.
SUbtotal hysterectomy: hysterectomy where the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes remain

Total: hysterectomy where the cervix is removed by the ovaries and fallopian tubes remain; also called complete hysterectomy.
Total plus bilateral salpingoophorectomy: total (complete hysterectomy, including uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
Term
Intrauterine device
Definition
Plastic or metal object placed inside the uterus to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterine lining.
Term
lumpectomy
Definition
Excision of a small primary breast tumor (a lump) and some of the normal tissue that surrounds it. In lumpectomy, lymph nodes may also be removed because they are located within the breast tissue taken during surgery. Typically, the patient will undergo radiation therapy after lumpectomy
Term
mammoplasty
Definition
surgical reconstruction of the breasts, to change their size, shape, or postion.
Term
mastectomy
Definition
Excision of the entire breast
Total: excision of the entire breast, nipple, areola, and the involved overlying skin; also called simple mastectomy In total mastectomy,lymph nodes are removed only if they are included in the breast tissue eing removed.
Modified radical. Excision of the entire breast including the lymph nodes in the underarm (axillary dissection). Most women who have mastectomies today have modified radical mastectomies.
Radical: excision of the entire breast, all underarm lymph noees, and chest wall muscles under the breast.
Term
myomectomy
Definition
excision of a myomatous tumore, generally uterine
Term
reconstructive breast surgery
Definition
Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed because of cancer or other disease. Reconstruction is commonly possible immediately following mastectomy so the patient awakes from anesthesia with a breast mound already in place.
Tissue,(skin) expansion: common breast reconstruction technique in which a balloon expander is inserted beneath the skin and chest muscle, saline solution is gradually injected to increasee size, and the expander is then replaced with a more permanent implant.
Term
transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap
Definition
Surgical creation of a skin flap using skin and fat from the lower half of the abdomen which is passed under the skin to the breast area. The abdominal tissue (flap) is shaped into a natural-looking breast and sutured into place. TRAM flap procedure is a popular reconstruction option.
Term
salpingo-oophorectomy
Definition
Excision of an ovary and fallopian tube. A salpingo-oophoroectomy is usually identified as right, left, or bilateral
Term
tubal ligation
Definition
Procedure that ties (ligates) the fallopiian tubes to prevent pregnancy. Tubal ligation is a form of sterilization surgery that is usually performed during laparoscopy.
Term
antifungals
Definition
Treat vaginal yeast infection by altering the yeast cell membrane or interfering with a metabolic process. Most antifungals used to treat yeast infections are applied topically as ointments, suppositories, or vaginal tablets. (i.e. miconazole - monistat, nystatin: mycostatin, Nilstat
Term
estrogens
Definition
Treat symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, vaginal dryness, fatigue) through hormone replacement therapy (HRT). long-term use of estrogen has been linked with an increased risk of thrombophlebitis and breast and endometrial cancer. I.e. conjuated estrogens - cenestin, premarin.
Term
oral contraceptives
Definition
prevent ovulation. Oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, contain a combination of estrogen and progestin and are highly effective in preventing pregnancy if taken as directed. i.e. desogestrel/ethinyl estradiol -Desogen, Ortho-Cept; ethinyl estradiol/norgestrel, Lo./Ovral-28
Term
oxytocics
Definition
Induce labor at term by increasing the strength and frequency of uterine contractions. Oxytocics are also used during the psotpartum period to control bleeding after the expulsion of the placenta. i.e. oxytocin, Pitocin
Term
prostaglandins
Definition
Terminate pregnancy. Large doses of certain prostoglandins can cause the uterus to contract stongly enough to spontaneously abort a fetus. i.e. dinoprostone - Prostin E2, Cervidil. mifepristone - mifeprex
Term
spermacides
Definition
chemically destroy sperm by creating a highly acidic environment in the uterus. Spermicides are available in foam, jelly, gel, and suppositiories. They are used within the femal vagina for contraception. Spermicides have a higher failure rate than other methods of birth control. i.e. nonoxynol9, octoxynol9. Semcid, Koromex, Ortho-gynol.
Term
Abbreviations
Definition
AB;Ab,ab: antibody; abortion
AI: artificial insemination
BSE: breast self exam
CA; cancer; chronological age; cardiac arrest
D&C dilatioin and curettage
DUB: dysfunctional uterine bleeding
FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone
G: gravida (pregnant)
GC: gonococcus (neisseria gonorrheoeae)
GYN: gynecology
HRT: hormone replacement therapy
HSG: hysterosalpingography
HSV: herpes simplex virus
IUD: intrauterine device
LH: luteinizing hormone
LMP: last menstrual period
LSO: left salpingo-oophorectomy
OCPs: oral contraceptive pills
Pap: Papanicolaou (test)
PID: pelvic inflammatory disease
PMP: previous menstrual period
PMS: premenstrual syndrome
RSO: right salpingo-oophorectomy
STD: sexually transmitted disease
TAH: total abdominal hysterectomy
TRAM: transverse rectus abdominis muscle
TVH: total vaginal hysterectomy
VD: venereal disease.
CCPD: cephalopelvic diisproportion
CS, C-section
CVS: chorionic villus sampling
CWP: Childbirth without pain
FECG, FEKG: fetal electrocardiogram
FHR: fetal heart rate
FHT: fetal heart tone
FTND: full-term normal delivery
IUGR: intrauterine growth rate; intrauterin growth retardation
IVF-ET: in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer
LBW: low birth weight
NB: newborn
OB: obstetrics
para 1,2,etc. unipara, bipara, tripara (number of viable births)
UC: uterine contractions.
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