Abdominal hysterectomy: The surgical removal of the uterus through an incision in the abdomen.
Adenocarcinomas:Cancer that begins in the gland cells of the body. This term also applies to tumors showing a glandular type of growth pattern.
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS): A syndrome -- caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -- in which certain cells of the immune system are destroyed, making it difficult to fight infections and certain cancers.
Amenorrhea: When women do not get their monthly period.
Amputation of the penis: (See penectomy.)
Antibiotics: Drugs that kill certain infection-causing germs.
Antidepressants:Medications used to treat depression.
Anti-hypertensives: Medications used to treat high blood pressure.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: Drugs that reduce inflammation (pain and swelling) by modifying the body's immune response.
Anorgasmia: The absence of sexual climax (orgasm).
Anus: The opening of the rectum to the outside of the body.
Bacterial vaginosis: The most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. Bacterial vaginosis often causes a vaginal discharge that is thin and milky, and is described as having a "fishy" odor. Bacterial vaginosis is caused by a combination of several bacteria.
Balanitis: An inflammation of the head (glans) of the penis
Balanoposthitis: Inflammation of the head and the foreskin of the penis.
Bartholin's glands: The small, mucus-producing glands on either side of the vaginal opening.
Benign: Not cancer, as in a benign tumor.
Biological therapy: A treatment that uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. It uses materials made by the body or made in a laboratory to boost, direct, or restore the body's natural defenses against disease. Biological treatment is sometimes called biological response modifier (BRM) therapy.
Biopsy: The removal of a small sample of tissue for testing.
Birth control: A way for men and women to prevent pregnancy.
Bisexual: A person who is sexually attracted to members of either gender.
Bladder: The sac that holds urine.
Blood test: A procedure in which a sample of blood is taken and analyzed in a lab for evidence of infection or disease.
Bulbourethral glands (Cowper's glands): Pea-sized structures located on the sides of the urethra just below a man's prostate gland. These glands produce a clear, slippery fluid that empties directly into the urethra. This fluid serves to lubricate the urethra and to neutralize any acidity that may be present due to residual drops of urine in the urethra.
Cancer: A disease that occurs when abnormal cells in a part of the body divide and grow out of control.
Candida: A species of fungus that normally lives in small numbers in the vagina, as well as in the mouth and digestive tract of both men and women.
Carcinoma in situ: This is a condition that is considered a pre-cancer, because cancer cells are found on the surface of the organ or tissue. ("In situ" literally means "in its proper place.")
Cervix: The lowest part of the womb, or uterus, through which babies pass when they are born.
Cervical cancer: Cancer that occurs when abnormal cells in a woman's cervix -- the lowest part of the uterus (womb) through which babies pass when they are born -- divide and grow out of control.
Cervical biopsy: A procedure in which the doctor removes a small amount of tissue from the cervix to be examined more closely.
Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
Chest X-ray: X-rays use high-energy radiation in low doses to create images of the body to help diagnose diseases and determine the extent of injuries. A chest X-ray is done to check that the heart and lungs are healthy.
Chlamydia: A germ that is primarily sexually transmitted and infects genital organs.
Chronic hepatitis: An ongoing infection of the liver that can lead to cirrhosis, a hardening of the liver that causes liver tissue to scar and stop working.
Circumcision: An operation in which the doctor removes the foreskin from the penis. The foreskin is the skin that covers the tip of the penis.
Clear cell adenocarcinoma: A special type of adenocarcinoma that occurs in women who were exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) while in the womb. (Many pregnant women from 1945 to 1970 were given DES to prevent miscarriage.)
Clinical trial: An organized research program conducted with patients to evaluate a new medical treatment, drug, or device.
Clitoris: The small structure at the front of the vulva. The clitoris is very sensitive to stimulation and helps a woman reach sexual climax.
Clitorectomy: The removal of the entire clitoris and the adjacent labia (the external and internal folds of skin, or lips, that protect the vaginal opening).
Colposcopy: An examination of the cervix (lower part of the uterus) and the wall of the vagina. It is performed using a special microscope (colposcope) that gives a magnified view of the tissue lining the cervix and vagina. A special solution may be applied to the cervix that causes abnormal cells to turn white or yellow so that they may be more easily viewed.
Computed axial tomography (CAT or CT scan): A technique in which multiple X-rays of the body are taken from different angles in a very short period of time. These images are collected by a computer and give a series of cross-sectional "slices" of the body.
Conception: The fertilization of an egg by a sperm.
Condom: A device usually made of latex (a type of rubber), plastic, or animal membrane that is used for birth control and to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Male condoms are fitted over the erect penis. Female condoms are inserted into the vagina. The closed end of the condom covers the cervix, and the open end covers the area around the opening of the vagina.
Condyloma (genital warts): Growths or bumps on the penis, vagina, vulva (vaginal lips), cervix (the opening between the vagina and womb), rectum, or groin. Genital warts are spread by a sexually transmitted virus.
Connective tissue: A group of supporting body tissues that connect fat, muscle, blood vessels, nerves, bones, and cartilage.
Corpus luteum: The structure formed within the ovary during the luteal phase of a woman's menstrual cycle. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone which prepares the uterus with the rich lining needed for the fertilized egg to implant.
Cowper's glands (bulbourethral glands): Pea-sized structures located on the sides of the urethra just below a man's prostate gland. These glands produce a clear, slippery fluid that empties directly into the urethra. This fluid serves to lubricate the urethra and to neutralize any acidity that may be present due to residual drops of urine in the urethra.
Cross-dressing: A preference for dressing as the opposite sex.
Cryosurgery: The use of extremely cold temperatures to freeze and destroy abnormal tissues. This procedure is used to treat pre-cancerous tumors. It often is used to remove abnormal tissue of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina (birth canal).
Cryptorchidism: A condition in which the testicles do not descend from the abdomen, where they are located during development, to the scrotum shortly before birth. Also called undescended testicle.
Culdocentesis: A procedure in which a needle is inserted through the vaginal wall just behind the uterus. Fluid is removed through the needle and examined for signs of bleeding or infection.
Cystoscope: A procedure in which a lighted tube is passed up the urethra to view the bladder.
Date rape: When one person forces another person to have sex. It differs from rape because the victim agreed to spend time with the attacker. Perhaps they even went out with their attacker more than once.
Diagnostic laparoscopy: A surgical procedure used to examine a person's internal organs. A laparoscope, a thin viewing tube similar to a telescope, is passed through a small incision in the abdomen. Using the laparoscope, the doctor can look directly at the organs.
Diaphragm: A round piece of flexible rubber with a rigid rim used by women for birth control. The woman places the diaphragm in their vagina and against their cervix. The diaphragm prevents semen from entering the womb. Spermicide should be used with a diaphragm.
Diethylstilbestrol (DES): A drug given to many pregnant women from 1945 to 1970 to prevent miscarriage. Exposure to DES is a risk factor for a special type of vaginal cancer (adenocarcinoma), as well as other abnormalities of the genital tract.
Diagnosis: The process by which a doctor determines what disease a patient has by studying the patient's symptoms and medical history, and analyzing any tests performed (blood tests, urine tests, and brain scans, for example)
Digital (finger) rectal exam: An exam in which the doctor inserts a gloved finger into the rectum and feels for abnormal areas.
Dilation and curettage (D & C): A procedure in which the opening of the cervix is stretched with a special instrument, and the walls of the uterus are gently scraped.
Douche: A liquid used to clean a woman's genitals and vagina.
Dysmenorrhea: The medical term for the painful cramps that may occur during a woman's menstrual period.
Dyspareunia: Pain during intercourse.
Dysplasia: Abnormal growth of cells and tissues. Considered a pre-cancerous condition.
Ectopic (tubal) pregnancy: A pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes.
Ejaculate: The fluid that is expelled from a man's penis during sexual climax (orgasm).
Ejaculation: When sperm and other fluids come from the penis during sexual climax (orgasm).
Ejaculatory ducts: The structures formed by the fusion of the vas deferens and the seminal vesicles. The ejaculatory ducts empty into the urethra.
Embryo: A fertilized egg.
Emergency contraception: Also called emergency post-coital oral contraception (EPOC) or the "morning after pill." It is a form of birth control that may be used by women after having unprotected sex. The most commonly used emergency contraception consists of a pill form in which two doses of hormone pills are taken in one day 12 hours apart within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Another form uses an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted by a doctor within five to seven days of unprotected sex.
Endometrial biopsy: A procedure in which a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is removed for evaluation and testing.
Endometrial cancer: Cancer that occurs when abnormal cells in the endometrium -- the lining of the uterus (womb) -- divide and grow uncontrolled.
Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue that looks and acts like endometrial tissue is found outside the uterus, usually inside the abdominal cavity.
Endometrium: The tissue that lines the inside of the uterus.
Epididymis: The long, coiled tube that rests on the back side of each testicle. It transports and stores the sperm cells produced in the testes. The epididymis also brings the sperm to maturity, since the sperm that emerge from the testes are immature and incapable of fertilization. During sexual arousal, contractions force the sperm into the vas deferens.
Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis.
Epithelial cell carcinoma: A type of cancer that arises from the lining cells of the body, called epithelial cells. Epithelial cells form the outer layer of the skin, and the membranes lining the digestive tract, bladder, and uterus, as well as the tubes and ducts that run through the body's organs.
Epithelial cells: The cells that form the outer layer of the skin, and the membranes lining the digestive tract, bladder, and uterus, as well as the tubes and ducts that run through the body's organs.
Erectile dysfunction (impotence): The inability to attain and/or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse.
Exhibitionism: A disorder characterized by intense, sexually arousing fantasies, urges, or behaviors involving exposure of the individual's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger.
Fallopian tubes: The narrow, muscular tubes attached to the upper part of the uterus that serve as tunnels for the ova to travel from the ovaries to the uterus. Conception, the fertilization of an egg by a sperm, normally occurs in the fallopian tubes.
Female circumcision: The removal of part of a female's external genitalia (reproductive organs), usually the clitoris. Also called female genital mutilation. Female circumcision is usually part of a religious ritual.
Female genital mutilation (FGM): A procedure in which parts or all of the vagina are removed for non-medical purposes. The clitoris may be removed along with the labia, or the vaginal opening may be narrowed by a covering seal that is formed by cutting or repositioning the inner or outer labia (vaginal "lips").
Fetishism: A disorder in which a person has sexual urges and engages in behavior associated with non-living objects.
Fibroids: Nodules of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop within the wall of the uterus (womb). Medically, they are called uterine leiomyomata (singular: leiomyoma).
Fimbriae: The finger-like projections on the end of the fallopian tubes. The fimbriae sweep the egg from the ovaries and into the tube.
Flank: The fleshy side of the body between the ribs and hip.
Fluorouracil: A chemotherapy drug that when used in cream or solution form can be applied directly to the skin. It is used to treat certain skin problems, including cancer and conditions that could become cancerous if not treated. Fluorouracil works by interfering with the growth of abnormal cells.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): A hormone produced by the pituitary gland (at the base of the brain). In men, FSH is necessary for sperm production (spermatogenesis). In women, FSH stimulates the growth of follicles (the small, fluid-filled cysts that hold the eggs) and the supporting cells responsible for the growth and nurturing of the egg.
Foreskin: The loose skin that covers the head of the penis.
Frotteurism: A disorder in which the focus of a person's sexual urges is related to touching or rubbing their genitals against the body of a non-consenting, unfamiliar person.
Gender: Being male or female.
Gender identity dysphoria: A condition in which a male or female feels a strong identification with the opposite sex.
Genital warts (condyloma): Growths or bumps on the penis, vagina, vulva (vaginal lips), cervix (the opening between the vagina and womb), rectum, or groin. Genital warts are a sexually transmitted disease (STD), which means that they are spread by having sex with an infected person.
Glans: The head of the penis.
Gonorrhea: A serious bacterial infection that is caught by having sex with an infected person. A person can become infected when the bacteria enter any opening in the body, including the penis, anus, vagina, or mouth. Gonorrhea also is called "clap" or "drip."
Hepatitis: A disease involving inflammation of the liver. Most types of hepatitis are caused by viruses, but alcohol, drugs, and other factors also can cause the disease. Hepatitis can cause long-term damage to the liver.
Hepatitis B: A type of hepatitis that can be spread from another person who has the virus. Most commonly, it is spread by having sex with an infected person or by sharing a needle.
Herpes: A virus spread by close personal contact, such as kissing or sexual intercourse. There are two types of herpes. The first type is herpes simplex type 1 (or HSV-1). HSV-1 occurs most often on or near the mouth and appears as a blister or cold sore. The second type, herpes simplex type 2 (or HSV-2), occurs most often on or near the sex organs and is sometimes called "genital herpes."
Heterosexual: A person who is attracted to individuals of the opposite gender.
HIV test: A test to look for signs of HIV in the blood.
Homosexual: A person who is attracted to individuals of the same gender.
Hormones: Chemicals that stimulate or regulate the activity of cells or organs.
Hormone therapy: Also known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The use of hormones, usually estrogen and progesterone, as a therapy, often used to treat the discomforts of menopause or to replace hormones (especially estrogen) lost after menopause.
Human papillomavirus (HPV): A group of more than 100 types of viruses, some of which can cause warts (papillomas).
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): The virus that causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). HIV weakens a person's ability to fight infections and cancer. People with HIV are said to have AIDS when the virus makes them very sick and they develop certain infections or cancers. A person gets HIV when an infected person's body fluids (blood, semen, fluids from the vagina or breast milk) enter their bloodstream. The virus can enter the blood through linings in the mouth, anus, or sex organs (the penis and vagina), or through broken skin.
Hypogonadism: Impaired function of the ovaries in women and the testes in men leading to hormonal imbalances.
Hysterectomy: The surgical removal of the uterus.
Hysteroscopic sterilization: A form of permanent sterilization in which a small device is planted in each fallopian tube. A device called Essure irritates the tubes, causing scarring which closes them off. Afterward, some women experience problems which include changes in their monthly period, pain in the lower belly, or allergic reactions to the metal in the coil.
Immune system: The body's natural defense system against infection or disease; a system of cells that protects the body from bacteria, viruses, toxins, and other foreign substances.
Impotence (erectile dysfunction): The inability to attain and/or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse.
Incontinence: Loss of bladder and/or bowel control.
Infibulation: This non-medical procedure is an extreme form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). It involves removing the female clitoris and labia. The tissues are then sewn together to prevent sexual intercourse, leaving only a small hole for the flow of urine and menstrual blood. A second procedure is necessary later to allow for sexual intercourse. This is considered a violation of human rights.
Delayed or retarded ejaculation: When ejaculation is slow to occur.
Inhibited sexual desire (reduced libido): A decrease in desire for or interest in sexual activity.
In situ: "In its proper place." Usually refers to cancer that is confined to its site of origin.
Intrauterine device (IUD): A small, plastic, flexible, T-shaped device that is placed into the uterus (womb). The IUD is a form of birth control.
Intravenous pyelogram (IVP): This is a special type of X-ray that outlines the organs of the kidneys and urinary tract.
Keloid: A dense scar formed by the excessive growth of fibrous tissue following an injury to the skin.
Labia majora: Part of the female external reproductive system, the labia majora are the two outer lips that are covered by pubic hair in adult women.
Labia minora: Part of the female external reproductive system, the labia minora are the two inner lips that surround the opening of the vagina (the birth canal) and the urethra (the exit tube for urine.)
Laparoscopy: A procedure in which the doctor inserts a scope or small device through small incisions in the abdomen. They then view the reproductive organs and pelvic cavity using the device. A sample of tissue may also be collected for testing.
Laparotomy: A procedure in which the doctor opens the abdomen to inspect the internal organs.
Laser surgery: The use of a narrow beam of light to remove or destroy cancer cells, or to cut tissues.
Leiomyomata (singular: leiomyoma): See uterine fibroids.
Leiomyomectomy: Surgical removal of uterine fibroids only, leaving the uterus intact.
Leiomyosarcoma: A type of sarcoma that develops in the uterine muscle wall.
Liposarcoma: Cancer that develops from fat cells ("lipo" means fat).
Luteinizing hormone (LH): A hormone produced by the pituitary gland (at the base of the brain). In men, LH stimulates the production of testosterone, which is necessary for sperm production. In women, LH causes the dominant follicle to release its egg from the ovary (ovulation).
Lymphadenectomy (lymph node dissection): The removal of lymph nodes.
Lymph nodes: Small, bean-shaped structures found throughout the body. Lymph nodes produce and store infection-fighting cells.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A test that produces high-quality images of the body's internal structures without the use of X-rays. MRI uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce these images.
Malignant: Cancerous, as in a malignant tumor.
Malignant melanomas: A cancer that develops in the pigment-producing cells that determine skin color.
Masturbation: Self-stimulation of the genitals to achieve sexual arousal and pleasure, usually to the point of orgasm (sexual climax).
Melanoma: Cancer of the cells that produce pigment in the skin.
Metastasis: Cancer cells that break from a tumor and spread to other parts of the body.
Menstruation: The periodic shedding of a woman's uterine lining.
Menopause: When a woman's ovaries stop producing hormones because the number of eggs (follicles) is limited. At this time, regular menstrual periods stop.
Metronidazole: The most common medicine used to treat trichomoniasis. It is also used to treat bacterial vaginosis. A common brand name for this medicine is Flagyl.
Microsurgery: Surgery utilizing a microscope to enable doctors to operate on very small areas. Microsurgery is used to target a specific area and to protect as much of the surrounding healthy tissue as possible.
Mittelschmerz: The pelvic pain that some women experience during ovulation. (Ovulation generally occurs about mid way between menstrual cycles; hence the term mittelschmerz, which comes from the German words for "middle" and "pain.")
Monogamy: The practice of having sex with only one partner.
Neoplasm: An abnormal mass or colony of cells.
Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity testing: A test used to monitor erections that occur naturally during sleep. This test can help determine if a man's erectile problems are due to physical or psychological causes.
Non-coital behavior: Physically stimulating activity that does not include intercourse (such as sensual massage).
Non-infectious vaginitis: A form of vaginitis (irritation or inflammation of the vagina) that may result as a reaction to certain substances or chemicals, such as vaginal sprays, douches, spermicides, soap, laundry detergent, or fabric softener.
Non-seminoma: A type of testicular cancer that tends to be aggressive and occurs most often when men are in their 30s or younger. There are four types of non-seminomas: embryonal carcinomas, yolk sac tumors, teratomas, and choriocarcinomas. When these non-seminomas occur in combination, they are called mixed tumors.
Norplant: Six match-sized rubber capsules that are surgically implanted underneath the skin of a woman's upper arm. The sticks contain the hormone progestin, which releases slowly into the body and prevents pregnancy for up to five years. Norplant is no longer available in the U.S.
Omentectomy: The surgical removal of the fatty tissue covering within the abdomen.
Oncologist: A doctor who specializes in cancer treatment.
Oophorectomy: A surgical procedure in which one or both of the ovaries is removed.
Orchiectomy: A surgical procedure in which the doctor removes one or both testicles through an incision (cut) in the groin.
Orgasm: Sexual climax.
Oocytes (ova or egg cells): The female cells of reproduction.
Ovarian Cancer: An abnormal growth of tissue (tumor) that develops in a woman's ovaries.
Ovarian Cyst: A sac filled with fluid or a semisolid material that forms on or within one of the ovaries, the small organs in the pelvis that make female hormones and hold egg cells.
Ovary: A small organ in the pelvis that makes female hormones and holds egg cells which, when fertilized, can develop into a baby. There are two ovaries: one located to the left of the uterus (the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a baby grows) and one on the right.
Paget's disease of the vulva: A condition in which cancerous cells are present in the skin of the vulva.
Pap smear: A screening test in which a sample of cells is taken from a woman's cervix. The test is used to detect changes in the cells and screen for cervical cancer.
Paraphilias: Impulse disorders (mental illnesses) that are characterized by recurrent and intense sexual fantasies, urges, and behaviors. Paraphilias are considered deviant -- outside of acceptable patterns of behavior -- because they involve unusual objects, activities, or situations not considered sexually arousing to others.
Paraphimosis: A condition in which the foreskin of the penis, once retracted, cannot return to its original location.
Penile cancer: Cancer of the penis.
Partial vulvectomy: A procedure that removes a portion of the vulva.
Pedophilia: A disorder in which a person has fantasies, urges, or behaviors that involve sexual activity with a pre-pubescent child or children (generally age 13 years or younger).
Pelvic cavity: The space inside the pelvis that holds the reproductive organs.
Pelvic exam: An examination during which a doctor inserts a speculum (an instrument that lets the clinician see inside the vagina) and examines the vagina, cervix, and uterus. The doctor will feel for any lumps or changes. A Pap smear is usually done during a pelvic exam.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): An infection of the female reproductive organs usually contracted through sexual contact.
Pelvic ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to produce an electronic image of the organs of the pelvis, especially the uterus and ovaries.
Penectomy: The surgical removal of the penis. In a partial penectomy, part of the penis is removed. In a total penectomy, the whole penis is removed.
Penetration: The insertion of an erect penis into a woman's vagina.
Penis: One of the external structures of the male reproductive system, along with the scrotum and testicles.
Perineum: The space between the opening of the rectum and the scrotum in the male and the opening of the rectum and the vulva in the female.
Peritoneum: The lining of the abdominal cavity.
Peyronie's disease: A condition in which a plaque, or hard lump, forms on the penis. The hardened plaque reduces flexibility, causing pain and forcing the penis to bend or arc during erection.
Phimosis: A condition in which the foreskin of the penis becomes constricted and difficult to retract.
The Pill: A drug containing hormones which women take to prevent pregnancy. Also known as birth control pills.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A common disorder in women caused by a hormonal imbalance. Symptoms of PCOS include irregular or no periods, acne, obesity, and excess hair growth. This disorder often prevents ovulation (the release of an oocyte by the ovary), leading to infertility.
Premature ejaculation: Ejaculation that occurs before or soon after penetration.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): A combination of physical and mood disturbances that occur after ovulation and normally end with the onset of the menstrual flow.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): A severe form of PMS. The symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS, but are severe enough to interfere with work, social activities, and relationships.
Prepuce: The fold of skin that covers the head of the penis (also called the foreskin). Prepuce is also the hood or covering of the clitoris.
Priapism: A persistent, often painful erection that can last from several hours to a few days.
Primary amenorrhea: A condition in which a young woman never gets their first period.
Proctoscopy: An exam of the rectum.
Prognosis: Chance of recovery from an injury or disease.
Progesterone: A female hormone that acts to prepare the uterus (the womb) to receive and sustain a fertilized egg.
Prostate: A male sex gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. About the size of walnut, the prostate makes a milky fluid that joins with sperm during ejaculation (when sperm and other fluids are expelled from the penis during orgasm).
Prostate cancer: Cancer of the prostate gland.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A test to screen for prostate cancer and to help monitor treatment.
Pubic lice: Tiny insects that live in the pubic hair and other hairy areas, except the scalp. Pubic lice are spread through close physical contact with someone who has them. They also are called "crabs."
Radiation therapy: The use of high-dose X-rays or other high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Also called radiotherapy.
Radical hysterectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the cervix, uterus, and part of the vagina.
Radical inguinal orchiectomy: A surgical procedure to treat testicular cancer in which the doctor removes one or both testicles through an incision (cut) in the groin.
Radical local excision: A surgical procedure that involves the removal of cancerous growths and a large portion of normal tissue around the cancer.
Radical vulvectomy: A procedure that removes the entire vulva. The lymph nodes in the groin usually are also removed.
Rape: A situation when a person has sex with another person against that person's will.
Recurrent disease: A term used to describe a disease that has come back (recurred) after it has been treated.
Reduced libido (inhibited sexual desire): A decrease in desire for or interest in sexual activity.
Refractory disease: Disease that is not improving despite treatment.
Retrograde ejaculation: A condition that occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced backward into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis.
Rhythm method: Also called natural family planning, rhythm is a method of birth control that focuses on learning to recognize the days a woman is fertile, and abstaining from sex before and during those days.
Risk factor: A factor that increases a person's chance of developing a disease or predisposes a person to a certain condition.
Sarcomas: Tumors of the connective tissues under the skin that tend to grow rapidly. Connective tissues include fat, muscle, blood vessels, deep skin tissues, nerves, bones, and cartilage.
Sarcoma of the uterus: Cancer of the muscle of the uterus.
Scabies: A skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin, producing small red bumps and severe itching. The mites easily spread from person to person, especially among people who share close living spaces.
Scrotum: The sac of skin that surrounds the testicles.
Secondary amenorrhea: A condition in which a woman who has had normal menstrual cycles stops getting their monthly period.
Semen: The fluid containing sperm (the male reproductive cells) that is expelled (ejaculated) through the end of the penis when the man reaches sexual climax (orgasm).
Seminal vesicles: The sac-like pouches that attach to the vas deferens near the base of the urinary bladder. The seminal vesicles produce a sugar-rich fluid (fructose) that provides sperm with a source of energy and helps with the sperms' motility (ability to move). The fluid of the seminal vesicles makes up most of the volume of a man's ejaculatory fluid, or ejaculate.
Seminiferous tubules: Coiled masses of tubes within the testes that are responsible for producing the sperm cells through a process called spermatogenesis.
Seminoma: A type of testicular cancer that is made up of a single type of cell. Seminomas tend to be slow growing and occur most often when men are in their 40s and 50s.
Sensory testing: Testing to measure the strength of nerve impulses in a particular area of the body.
Sex (gender) reassignment surgery: Surgery to change the appearance of a person's anatomy to match as closely as possible the anatomy of the opposite sex.
Sexual addiction: The behavior of a person who has an unusually intense sex drive or obsession with sex.
Sexual dysfunction: This refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity.
Sexual health: Sexual health refers to the many factors that impact sexual function and reproduction. These factors include a variety of physical, mental, and emotional issues. Disorders that affect any of these factors can impact a person's physical and emotional health, as well as their relationships and self-image.
Sexually transmitted disease (STD): A disease passed from one person to another by unprotected sexual contact. You can get a sexually transmitted disease from sexual activity that involves the mouth, anus, penis, or vagina.
Sexual masochism: A disorder in which a person uses sexual fantasies, urges, or behaviors involving the act (real, not simulated) of being humiliated, beaten, or otherwise made to suffer in order to achieve sexual excitement and climax.
Sexual orientation: A term used to refer to a person's emotional, romantic, and sexual attraction to individuals of a particular gender (male or female).
Sexual response cycle: The sequence of physical and emotional changes that occur as a person becomes sexually aroused and participates in sexually stimulating activities, including intercourse and masturbation. The sexual response cycle has four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
Sexual sadism: A disorder in which a person has persistent fantasies in which sexual excitement results from inflicting psychological or physical suffering (including humiliation and terror) on a sexual partner.
Simple vulvectomy: A procedure that removes the entire vulva but no lymph nodes.
Skinning vulvectomy: A procedure to remove only the skin of the vulva that contains cancer.
Smegma: A thick, bad-smelling substance that results when oily secretions from the skin accumulate under the foreskin of the penis.
Sonogram (ultrasound): The use of sound waves to form an image of internal organs.
Speculum: An instrument inserted into the vagina to allow the doctor to view the inside of the vagina.
Sperm: The male reproductive cells.
Spermicide: Foams, jellies, tablets, or suppositories that a woman places their vagina and up next to the cervix (the opening leading from the vagina to the womb) before sex to prevent pregnancy. Spermicides block the cervix and paralyze the sperm, making them unable to travel into the womb.
Spermatic cord: The structure that secures the testicles within the scrotum.
Spermatogenesis: The process of producing sperm, the male reproductive cells.
Squamous cells: The thin, flat cells that line the surface of many organs of the body.
Squamous cell carcinomas: Cancer that begins in the squamous cells.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina: The most common type of vaginal cancer in which cancer cells grow from the surface of the vaginal lining.
Stages: The course of disease progression defined by levels or periods of severity: early, mild, moderate, moderately severe, and severe. Stages of cancer usually indicate the extent of the disease and how far the disease has spread to other areas of the body.
Sterilization: A form of contraception that involves surgically blocking the release of reproductive cells. In women, the fallopian tubes are blocked so that oocytes (eggs) cannot reach the uterus. In men, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle to the penis (vas deferens) is sealed, tied, or cut (vasectomy).
Stoma: An artificial opening of the intestine made in the abdomen to allow wastes to be released.
Surgery (cancer): A procedure to remove a tumor or other abnormal tissue associated with cancer.
Syphilis: A serious sexually transmitted disease (STD) that, without treatment, can lead to heart disease, nerve disorders, brain damage, mental disorders, blindness, and death.
Sunna circumcision: The removal of the tip of the clitoris and/or its hood or covering (prepuce) as part of a religious (non-medical) ritual. See also female circumcision or female genital mutilation (FGM).
Testicles (testes; singular testis): Part of the male reproductive system, the testicles manufacture the male hormones, including testosterone, and produce sperm, the male reproductive cells. The testicles are located inside the scrotum, the loose sac of skin that hangs below the penis.
Testicular self-exam (TSE): A procedure to detect changes in the testicles by rolling them between the fingers and thumbs of both hands to check for any lumps.
Testicular torsion: A condition in which the spermatic cord gets twisted around a testicle, cutting off the testicle's blood supply. Symptoms of testicular torsion include sudden and severe pain, enlargement of the affected testicle, tenderness, and swelling. This condition requires emergency treatment.
Testosterone: The male hormone that is essential for sperm production and the development of male characteristics, including muscle mass and strength, fat distribution, bone mass, facial hair growth, voice change, and sex drive
Total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO): A surgical procedure in which the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries are removed through an incision (cut) in the abdomen.
Total bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO): The removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Total pelvic exenteration: A surgical procedure that involves the removal of the bladder, the lower part of the colon, the rectum, the female reproductive organs and sometimes the vagina. It is a radical surgery that usually is done only when cancer has spread within the pelvis.
Transvaginal ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs. During a transvaginal ultrasound, a probe inserted into the vagina releases sound waves that echo off the tissue of the pelvic organs.
Transsexual: An individual who is committed to altering their physical appearance -- through cosmetics, hormones and, in some cases, surgery -- to resemble the opposite sex.
Transvestitism: The practice by heterosexual males of dressing in female clothes to produce or enhance sexual arousal. Also called transvestic fetishism.
Trichomoniasis: An infection that most often occurs in a woman's vagina. A man also can get the infection in the urethra (the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body), as well as in the prostate. It is caused by a tiny single-celled organism known as a "protozoa."
Tubal ligation: Surgery to "tie the tubes" (fallopian tubes) of a woman, which causes permanent sterility by preventing transport of the egg (ovum) to the uterus.
Tumor: A mass of tissue that forms when cells abnormally divide. Tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
Ultrasound (sonogram): The use of sound waves to form an image of internal organs.
Undescended testicle: A condition in which the testicles do not descend from the abdomen, where they are located during development, to the scrotum shortly before birth. Also called cryptorchidism.
Urethra: The tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside of the body.
Urinary tract infection (UTI): A condition that occurs when bacteria from outside the body get into the urinary tract and cause infection and inflammation.
Urologist: A doctor who is specially trained to treat problems of the male and female urinary system and the male sex organs.
Uterine fibroids: Nodules of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop within the wall of the uterus (womb). Medically, they are called uterine leiomyomata (singular: leiomyoma).
Uterus: The hollow, pear-shaped organ where a baby grows.
Vagina: The tube that joins the cervix (the lower part of uterus, or womb) to the outside of the body. It also is known as the birth canal.
Vaginal cancer: Cancer of the vagina.
Vaginal discharge: A clear or whitish fluid that comes out of the vagina. The uterus, cervix, or vagina can produce the fluid. A foul-smelling, yellow or green discharge is abnormal and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): A condition that often begins as pre-cancerous changes in the surface cells of the vagina.
Vaginectomy: The surgical removal of the vagina. It is sometimes used to remove cancerous growths. If all or part of the vagina is removed, the vagina must be reconstructed using tissue from another part of the body.
Vaginoplasty: A procedure to construct or reconstruct the vagina. This procedure is done during male to female gender reassignment surgery.
Vaginismus: A painful, involuntary spasm of the muscles that surround the vaginal entrance.
Vaginitis: A medical term used to describe various disorders that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina.
Vascular assessment: An evaluation of blood flow.
Vasculitis: An inflammation of blood vessels.
Vas deferens: The long, muscular tube that travels from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity, to just behind a man's urinary bladder. The vas deferens transports mature sperm to the urethra in preparation for ejaculation.
Vasectomy: A permanent sterilization procedure for men. The operation, usually done in a doctor's office, requires cutting and sealing the vas deferens, the tubes in the male reproductive system that carry sperm. A vasectomy prevents the transport of sperm out of the testes.
Viral vaginitis: A form of vaginitis (infection or inflammation of the vagina) caused by viral infection. One form caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) is often just called "herpes" infection. These infections also are spread by sexual contact.
Virus: A microorganism (germ) that causes various infections.
Voyeurism: A disorder that involves achieving sexual arousal by observing an unsuspecting and non-consenting person who is undressing or unclothed, and/or engaged in sexual activity.
Vulva: The area of skin between a woman's legs that includes all of the visible (external) organs of reproduction.
Vulvar cancer: Cancer of the vulva.
Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN): Pre-cancerous changes in the surface cells of the vulva. Also called dysplasia.
Vulvectomy: Removal of the vulva. Skinning vulvectomy is a procedure in which the skin of the vulva that contains the cancer is removed. Simple vulvectomy is a procedure in which the entire vulva is removed, but no lymph nodes. Partial vulvectomy is a procedure that removes only a portion of the vulva. Radical vulvectomy is a procedure in which the entire vulva is removed, and lymph nodes in the groin usually are removed.
Vulvovaginitis: Inflammation of both the vagina and vulva (the external female genitals).
Watchful waiting: Careful observation without immediate treatment.
Wide local excision: A procedure in which the doctor removes only the cancer and some normal tissue surrounding the tumor.
X-ray: High-energy radiation used in low doses to create images of the body to help diagnose diseases and determine the extent of injuries.
Yeast infections: Infections of the vagina caused by one of the many species of fungus called Candida. A change in the chemical balance in the vagina allows the fungus to grow too rapidly and cause symptoms.
