Abdominal hysterectomy
The surgical removal of the uterus through an incision in the abdomen.
Adenocarcinomas
Cancer that begins in the cells lining of the glands of the body.
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
A viral infection that attacks the immune system of the body and causes a syndrome in which many different, harmful organisms can attack the body and cause disease.
Amenorrhea
When a woman does not get her monthly period.
Amputation of the penis
(See penectomy.)
Antibiotics
Any of a class of medicines that kill 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 (swelling) by modifying the body’s immune response.
Aanorgasmia
The delay or 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 skin covering the head 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 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 laboratory for evidence of infection or disease.
Bulbourethral glands (Cowper’s glands)
Pea-sized structures located on the sides of the urethra just below the 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 uncontrolled.
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.
Carcinomas
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.
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 uncontrolled.
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 that can infect 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 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 to 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 caused by a virus that is sexually transmitted, meaning it is spread by having sex with an infected person.
Connective tissue
A group of supporting body tissues that connect fat, muscle, blood vessels, nerves, bones and cartilage.
Corpus luteum
The structure formed during the luteal phase of a woman’s menstrual cycle. The corpus luteum secretes estrogen and progesterone. Progesterone 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 the 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 behind the vagina. 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 he or she even went out with his or her 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. The woman places the diaphragm in her vagina and against her cervix. The diaphragm prevents semen from entering the womb. Spermicide must 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, brain scans, etc.)
Digital (finger) rectal exam
An exam in which the health care provider 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 scraped gently.
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
A pre-cancerous condition involving changes in the surface cells of the vulva and/or cervix. It also is called vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).
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 within 72 hours of having unprotected sex. The most commonly used emergency contraception consists of two doses of hormone pills taken in one day 12 hours apart.
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 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.
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 into the tube.
Flank
The fleshy side of the body between the ribs and hip.
Fluorouracil
A chemotherapy medication in cream form that is 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 his genitals against the body of a non-consenting, unfamiliar person
Gender
Being male or female.
Gender identity disorder
A disorder 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, or "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 damage to the liver, but not always.
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 chancre 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." Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, or "STD."
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
The use of hormones, usually taken by pill, to kill cancer cells.
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 70 types of viruses that 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 his or her 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
A disorder in men that occurs when the testicles (gonads) do not produce enough testosterone.
Hysterectomy
The surgical removal of the uterus.
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 procedure involves performing a clitorectomy, including the removal of the labia. The tissues are then sewn together, leaving only a small hole for the flow of urine and menstrual blood. In many cases, a second procedure is necessary later to allow for sexual intercourse.
Inhibited or retarded ejaculation
When ejaculation does not occur.
Inhibited sexual desire (reduced libido)
A decrease in desire for or interest in sexual activity.
In situ
"In its proper place."
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 urinary and reproductive systems.
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 small device through an incision in the abdomen. He or she then views 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 the 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. Common brand names for this medicine are Flagyl and Protostat.
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 (infection or inflammation of the vagina) that may result as a reaction to certain substances or chemicals, such as soap, laundry detergent or fabric softener.
Non-semonima
A type of testicular cancer that tends to be aggressive and occurs most often when men are in their 30s. Non-seminomas consist of more than one type of testicular cell. There are four types of non-seminomas: embryonal cell carcinomas, teratomas, teratocarcinomas 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.
Omentectomy
The surgical removal of the fatty tissue covering within the abdomen.
Oncologist
A physician who specializes in cancer treatment.
Oophorectomy
A surgical procedure in which one or both of the ovaries is removed.
Orchiectomy
A surgical procedure to treat testicular cancer 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 on the left side 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. This skin condition may be linked to vulvar cancer.
PAP test
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 of the cervix.
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 less than the entire 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 examination
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 test 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 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 vagina and the opening of the rectum.
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 medication containing hormones that women take to prevent pregnancy.
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). 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 her first period.
Proctoscopy
An examination 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, fallopian tubes 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 his or her 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 no longer improving after being treated.
Retrograde ejaculation
A condition that occurs when, at orgasm, the ejaculate is forced back into the bladder rather than through the urethra and out the end of the penis.
Rhythm
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 her 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.
Sensory testing
Testing to measure the strength of nerve impulses in a particular area of the body.
Sex (gender) reassignment surgery