Women's Health Glossary
Plain-English definitions of common gynecological and reproductive health terms.
Amenorrhea
The absence of menstruation. Primary amenorrhea is when menstruation never begins; secondary amenorrhea is when it stops for 3+ months.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
An imbalance of vaginal bacteria causing discharge, odor, and irritation. The most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age.
Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)
A fungal infection caused by Candida overgrowth, causing itching, burning, and thick white discharge.
Cervix
The lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It dilates during childbirth and is screened via Pap smear.
Colposcopy
A procedure to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease using a magnifying instrument called a colposcope.
Dysmenorrhea
Painful menstrual cramps. Primary dysmenorrhea is not caused by another condition; secondary is caused by conditions like endometriosis.
Endometriosis
A condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, heavy bleeding, and sometimes infertility.
Fallopian Tubes
Two tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs travel through these tubes after ovulation.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
A hormone that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles and is important for fertility and menstrual regulation.
Hysterectomy
Surgical removal of the uterus. May be partial (uterus only) or total (uterus and cervix).
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
A small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus for long-term contraception. Available in hormonal and copper (non-hormonal) versions.
Laparoscopy
A minimally invasive surgical procedure using a small camera to examine the pelvic organs. Often used to diagnose endometriosis.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
A hormone that triggers ovulation. LH surges are detected by ovulation predictor kits.
Menarche
The first occurrence of menstruation in a female's life, typically occurring between ages 10-16.
Menopause
The permanent cessation of menstruation, diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. Typically occurs around age 51.
Ovarian Cyst
A fluid-filled sac on or inside the ovary. Most are harmless and resolve on their own, but some require treatment.
Ovulation
The release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring around day 14 of a 28-day cycle.
Pap Smear (Pap Test)
A screening test for cervical cancer that collects cells from the cervix to check for abnormalities.
Pelvic Floor
A group of muscles and tissues forming the base of the pelvis, supporting the bladder, bowel, and uterus.
Perimenopause
The transition period leading up to menopause, characterized by irregular periods, hot flashes, and hormonal fluctuations.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
A hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts, irregular periods, excess androgen, and metabolic issues.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Physical and emotional symptoms occurring 1-2 weeks before menstruation, including bloating, mood changes, and breast tenderness.
Trichomonas (Trich)
A common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite, causing vaginal discharge, itching, and burning.
Uterine Fibroids
Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms.
Vaginal Atrophy
Thinning, drying, and inflammation of vaginal walls due to decreased estrogen, common during menopause.
Vulva
The external female genitalia, including the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening.