Chapter 12 Flashcards
Abdominopelvic cavity
Hollow space in the abdomen and pelvis that contains the internal female genitalia
External genitalia
Structures on the outside of the female body that include the mons pubis, labiamajora, labia minors, clitoris, vaginal intro it’s, Bartholin glands, urethral glands, and Skene glands.
Female genital system
Body system that consists of the structures of the internal and external genitalia.
It’s functions are to secrete female hormones, develop female secondary sexual characteristics, produce ova, menstruate, conceive and bear children, and produce milk to feed infants.
Genitalia
Internal and external organs and structures of the female genital and reproductive system.
Also known as the genital organs.
Genitourinary system
The combined female genital and reproductive body system and the urinary body system. These two body systems are in close proximity to each other and are often considered together.
Also known as the urogenital system.
Internal genitalia
Structures in the abdominopelvic cavity that include the ovaries, uterine tubes, uterus and vagina.
Mammmary glands
Part of the female reproductive system.
Also known as the breasts
Reproductive system
The function of the female genital system is conceiving and bearing children and producing milk to nourish infants.
Adnexa
Accessory organs (the ovaries and uterine tubes) connected to the main organ ( the uterus)
Follicle
Small area in the ovary that holds locates before puberty and maturing ova after puberty. A follicle ruptures during the menstrual cycle, releasing an ovum, and then becomes the corpus luteum.
Gonads
The sex glands in a female, which are the ovaries.
Oocyte
Immature egg in the follicle of the ovary
Ovary
Small, egg-shaped gland near the distal end of the uterine tube. The ovary is held in place by the broad ligament and other ligaments.
The follicles of the ovary secrete estradiol. The corpus luteum of the ovary secretes estradiol and progesterone.
The cells around the follicles secrete testosterone. The ovary is a gonad.
Ovum
A mature egg within a follicle in the ovary. It is released during ovulation in the menstrual cycle. The plural is ova.
Cilia
Tiny hairs within the uterine tube. they beat in waves to propel an ovum toward the uterus.
Fimbriae
Finger-like projections at the distal end of the uterine tube. They create currents that carry the ovum into the lumen of the uterine tube.
Peristalsis
Smooth wave-like muscle contractions of the uterine tube that move the ovum toward the uterus.
Uterine tube
Narrow tube that is connected at its proximal end to the uterus.
The distal end is funnel shaped; it is open to the pelvic cavity and is not directly connected to the ovary. It has a long central opening or lumen.
Also known as an oviduct.
Formerly known as the Fallopian tube
Anteflexion
Normal position of the uterus in which the superior portion is tipped anteriorly on top of the bladder.
Cervix
Narrow, most inferior part of the uterus. It contains the cervical canal.
Part of the cervical protrudes into the vagina. The cervical os is the small central opening in the cervix.
Cul-de-sac
Small pouch in the broad ligament that is between the uterus and rectum.
Fundus
Rounded top of the uterus.
Endometrium
Innermost layer of the uterus that lines the intrauterine cavity. It is a mucous membrane that contains many glands. It thickens and then is shed during the menstrual cycle.
Intrauterine cavity
Hollow area within the uterus. It is lined with endometrium.
Myometrium
Smooth muscle layer of the uterine wall. It contracts during menstruation to expel the endometrial .inning and during labor and the delivery of a baby.
Perimetrium
Serous membrane that is the outer layer of the uterus. It is part of the peritoneum that lines the abdominopelvic cavity.
Uterus
Internal female organ of menstruation and pregnancy. Also known as the womb.
The uterus is held in place by the broad ligament and other ligaments. The parts of the uterus include the fundus. Cervix, perimetrium, myometrium, endometrium, and intrauterine cavity.
The normal position of the uterus is anteflexion, tipped anteriorly.
Fornix
Area of the vaginal canal that is behind and around the cervix. Also known as the vaginal vault
Hymen
Elastic membrane that, if present, partially or completely covers the end of the vaginal canal.
Vagina
Short, tubular structure connected at its superior end to the cervix and at its inferior end to the outside of the body.
It contains the vaginal canal and the vaginal introitus, the opening to the outside of the body.
BUS
Bartholin glands, urethral glands, and Skene glands near the vaginal introitus. They secrete mucus during sexual arousal
Clitoris
Organ of sexual response in the female that enlarges with blood and becomes firm
Labia
Two sets of lip-shaped structures that partially cover the urethral meatus and the vaginal introitus. The labia major, the thicker, outermost lips, are covered with pubic hair. The labia minors, the smooth, thin, inner lips, are beneath the labia Majora
Mons pubis
Rounded, fatty pad of tissue covered with pubic hair that lies on top of the pubis (anterior hip bone)
Perineum
Area of skin between the vulva and the anus
Vaginal introitus
Opening of the vagina to the outside of the body.
Vulva
Area that includes the external genitalia as well as the mons pubis (but not the mammary glands)
Areola
Pigmented area around the nipple of the breast
Lactiferous lobules
Site of milk production in the mammary glands. The milk flows through the lactiferous ducts to the nipple.
Mammary glands
Two structures that contain adipose (fatty) tissue and lactiferous lobules. The nipple is the projection point of the Breast where the lactiferous ducts converge. The breasts produce milk to nourish the baby after birth. Also known as the breasts.
Estradiol
Most abundant and biologically active of the female hormones. During puberty, it causes the development of the female sexual characteristics.
It is secreted by the follicles of the ovary and the corpus luteum (after ovulation). It causes the endometrium to thicken during the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, estradiol is also secreted by the placenta.
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain. It stimulates a follicle in the ovary to enlarge and produce a mature ovum. FSH also stimulates the follicles to secrete estradiol.
Gamete
An ovum or spermatozoon. It has 23 chromosomes instead of the usual 46 chromosomes found in other cells in the body.
Luteinizing hormone (LH)
Hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in the brain. It stimulates a follicle in the ovary to rupture and release a mature ovum.
LH also stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete estradiol and progesterone.
Oogenesis
Production of a mature ovum from an oocyte through the processes of mitosis and the meiosis.
Progesterone
Hormone secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovary after ovulation.
It causes the uterine lining to thicken during the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy, it is secreted by the placenta.
Puberty
Rapid physical changes that the female body undergoes to reach sexual maturity with the development of the female secondary sexual characteristics.
This is stimulated by hormones from the anterior pituitary gland and the ovary. This period of time is known as adolescence.
Testosterone
Male hormone secreted by cells around the follicles in the ovary. It plays a role in the female sexual drive.
Female secondary sexual characteristics
Physical features that develop during puberty because of stimulation by hormones. They include enlargement of the external genitalia (genital area and breasts), the growth of body hair in axillae and genital area, and widening of the pelvis
Gamete
A mature ovum that contains 23 chromosomes
Meiosis
Begins in the fetal ovary before birth. It resumes during puberty to produce a mature ovum with 23 chromosomes and two or three non functioning polar bodies.
Mitosis
Process in which a cell with 46 chromosomes divides to produce two identical cells, each with 46 chromosomes. It is the first step in oogenesis, and it occurs in the fetal ovary before birth.
Oocyte
Immature ovum in the fetal ovary before birth
Oogenesis
Process of producing a mature ovum. It involves both meiosis and mitosis.
Corpus luteum
Remnants of a ruptured follicle in the ovary. The corpus luteum secretes estradiol and progesterone during the menstrual cycle.
If the ovum is fertilized, the placenta begins to secrete these hormones, and the corpus luteum becomes white scar tissue.
Ischemic phase
Days 27-28 of the menstrual cycle. the corpus luteum degenerates into white scar tissue and stops producing estradiol and progesterone. The endometrium sloughs off, and menstruation begins.
Menarche
The first cycle of menstruation at the onset of puberty. This is the first menstrual period or menses.
Menstrual cycle
A 28-day cycle that consists of the menstrual phase, proliferative phase (followed by ovulation), secretory phase, and ischemic phase.
Menstrual phase
Days 1-6 of the menstrual cycle. The endometrial lining of the uterus is shed.
Menstruation
Process in which the endometrium of the uterus is shed each month, causing a flow of blood and tissue through the vagina.
Under the influence of estradiol, the endometrium thickens in preparation to receive a fertilized ovum.
If the ovum is not fertilized, the endometrium is shed to begin another menstrual cycle.
Ovulation
Day 14 of the menstrual cycle. Luteinizing hormone from the anterior pituitary gland causes the ovarian follicle to rupture, releasing the mature ovum. The basal (baseline) body temperature rises during ovulation.
Proliferative phase
Days 7-13 of the menstrual cycle. Follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the follicle to secrete estradiol.
A follicle produces a mature ovum, and the thickness of the endometrium increases (proliferates)
Secretory phase
Days 15-26 of the menstrual cycle. A ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum and secretes estradiol and progesterone. The thickness of the endometrium increases.
Amnion
Membrane sac that holds the amniotic fluid that surrounds and cushions the developing embryo and fetus. AKA bag of waters
Antepartum
From the mother’s standpoint, the period of time from conception until labor and delivery with the birth of the baby.
Chorion
Outer layer of a zygote that sends out finger-like projections (villi) into the endometrium to bring nutrients and oxygen to the embryo.
It produces human chorionic gonadotropin. It later develops into the placenta.
Embryo
A fertilized ovum (zygote) from 4 days after fertilization through 8 weeks of gestation
Fertilization
The act of a spermatozoon uniting with an ovum. Also known as conception.
Fetus
An embryo becomes a fetus beginning at 9 weeks of gestation. It is called a fetus until the moment of birth.
Fraternal twins
The ovary releases two ova that are both fertilized but by different spermatozoa
Gestation
Period of time from the moment of conception until birth, approximately 9 months (38-42 weeks), divide into three trimesters.
Human Chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)
Hormone secreted by the chorion of the zygote. It stimulates the corpus luteum of the ovary to keep producing estradiol and progesterone to maintain the endometrium and prevent menstruation during the pregnancy.
Identical twins
An already developing zygote spits in two. This creates two separate but identical zygotes.
Placenta
Large, pancake-like structure that develops from the chorion. It provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus and removes carbon dioxide and waste products.
It secretes estradiol and progesterone to maintain the endometrium during pregnancy.
Pregnancy
State of being with child. It begins at the moment of conception and ends with delivery of the newborn.
Prenatal period
From the fetus’s standpoint, the period of time from conception to birth
Products of conception
The fetus, placenta, and all fluids and tissue in the pregnant uterus.
Trimester
A period of 3 months. The time of gestation is divided into three trimesters.
Umbilical cord
rubbery, flexible cord that connects the placenta to the umbilicus (navel) of the fetus. It contains two arteries and one vein.
Zygote
Cell that is the union of spermatozoon and an ovum. A zygote has 46 chromosomes.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Irregular uterine contractions during the last trimester. These strengthen the uterine muscle in preparation for labor. Also known as false labor
Cephalic presentation
Position of the fetus in which the head is the presenting part that is first to go through the birth canal.
Vertex presentation is a type of cephalic presentation in which the top of the head is the presenting part.
Cervical dilation
Widening of the cervical os from 0 to 5 cm during the first stage of labor
Cervical Ripening
Softening of the cervix as collagen fibers in its wall break down prior to the onset of labor
Crowning
The top of the fetal head (crown) is visible at the vaginal introitus during the second stage of labor.
Effacement
Thinning of the cervical wall, measured as a percentage from 0 percent to 100 percent, during the first stage labor.
Engagement
The fetal head drops into position within the mother’s pelvis in anticipation of birth. Also known as “lightening
Involution
Process by which the uterus gradually returns to a normal size after childbirth
Iochia
Small amounts of blood, tissue, and fluid that flow from the uterus after childbirth
Oxytocin
Hormone produced by the uterus and by the posterior pituitary gland in the brain.
It stimulates the uterus to contract and begin labor. After delivery, it stimulates the uterus to contract to stop bleeding.
It stimulates the let-down reflex to get milk flowing for breastfeeding.
Parturition
The process of labor and delivery. There are thee stages; dilation and effacement of the cervix, delivery of the newborn, and delivery of the placenta.
Placenta
Delivered during the third stage of labor. Also known as the “afterbirth.”
Postnatal period
From the newborns’ standpoint, the period of time after birht
Postpartum
From the mother’s standpoint, the period of time after delivery
Rupture of the membranes (ROM)
Rupture of the amniotic sac during the first stage of labor, with the release of amniotic fluid that flows out of the vagina.
Acrocyanosis
Temporary bluish coloration of the skin of the newborn’s face, hands, and feet.
Fontanels
Soft areas on the head between the bones of the cranium in a newborn.
In these areas, the brain is only covered with fibrous connective tissue.
The largest is the anterior fontanel on the top of the head. There is a smaller posterior fontanel on the back of the head.
Fontanels allow the brain to grow before the cranial fuse together. Also known as soft spots.
Meconium
First bowel movement passed by a newborn. It is a greenish-black, thick, tar-like substance.
Molding
Temporary, elongated reshaping of the fetal cranium as it passes through the mother’s bony pelvis.
Neonate
A newborn from the time of birth until 1 year of age. A term neonate is born between 38 and 42 weeks’ gestational age.
A preterm or premature neonate is born between 28 and 37 weeks’ gestational age.
Vernix caseosa
Thick, white, cheesy substance that covers some of the skin of the fetus and helps protect it from bacteria present in the mother’s vagina during birth.
Colostrum
First milk from the breasts. It is a thick, yellow sigh fluid that is rich in nutrients and contains maternal antibodies to give the newborn passive immunity to common diseases.
Lactation
Production of colostrum and then breast milk by the mammary glands after childbirth when stimulated by prolactin from the posterior pituitary gland.
Let-down reflex
Occurs when the newborn cries or sucks. Oxytocin from the posterior pituitary gland causes the lactiferous lobules to contract and expel milk.
Anovulation
Failure of the ovaries to release a mature ovum at the time of ovulation, although the menstrual cycle is Normal. this results in infertility.
Treatment; Hormone drug to stimulate ovulation
Ovarian cancer
Cancerous tumor of an ovary, This malignancy often does not cause symptoms until it is quite large and has already metastasized.
Polycystic ovary Syndrome
The ovaries contain multiple cysts. When a follicle enlarges and matures but fails to rupture and release an ovum, it then becomes a cyst. With each menstrual cycle, the cysts enlarge, causing pain.
Happens a month after month until the ovaries are filled with cysts.
This syndrome is associated with amenorrhea or menometrorrhagia, infertility, obesity, and insulin resistance syndrome with the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Salpingitis
Inflammation or infection of the uterine tube. It is due to endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease that narrows or blocks the lumen of the tube.
Endometrial cancer
Cancerous tumor of the endometrium of the uterus. The earliest sign is abnormal bleeding. Also known as uterine cancer.
Endometriosis
Endometrial tissue in abnormal places outside of the uterus. The exact cause is unknown, but it tends to run in families. The endometrium separates from the uterine wall during each menstrual cycle, but then the blood and tissue go in an abnormal retrograde direction up into the uterine tubes and other structures, and implant there.
Leiomyoma
Benign, fibrous tumor in the smooth muscle of the myometrium.
It can be small or as large as a soccer ball. Several tumors are leiomyomata; also known as uterine fibroids.
Leiomyosarcoma
Cancerous tumor of the smooth muscle of the myometrium
Myometritis
Inflammation or infection of the myometrium. It is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease.
Pyometritis is a bacterial infection of the myometrium that creates pus in the intrauterine cavity.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
Descent of the uterus from its normal position. This is caused by stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus within the abdominopelvic cavity and/or weakness in the muscles of the floor of the pelvic cavity.
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB)
Sporadic menstrual bleeding without a true menstrual period. It is related to anovulation. The endometrium sloughs off from time to time, but never reaches a full thickness because there is no ovulation and no corpus luteum to secrete progesterone. Also known as dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB)
Amenorrhea
Absence of monthly menstrual periods. It is caused by a hormone imbalance, thyroid disease, or a tumor of the uterus or ovary.
Poor nutrition, stress, chronic disease, intense exercise, or the psychiatric illness of anorexia nervosa can also cause amenorrhea.
Dysmenorrhea
Painful menstruation. During mensuration, the uterus releases prostaglandin to constrict blood vessels in the uterine wall and prevent excessive bleeding.
A high level of prostaglandin causes cramping and temporary ischemia of the myometrium, both of which cause pain.
Menopause
Normal cessation of menstrual periods, occurring around middle age. Perimenopause is the time around menopause when menstrual flow is lighter. Menopause is also known as climacteric or “Change of Life”
Menorrhagia
A menstrual period with excessively heavy flow or a menstrual period that lasts longer than 7 days. It is caused by a hormone imbalance, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. Menometrorrhagia is excessively heavy menstrual flow during menstruation or at other times of the month.
Metrorrhagia
Excessively heavy bleeding at a time other than menstruation. This can be caused by a tubal pregnancy or uterine cancer. Heavy uterine bleeding of any type can cause anemia.
Oligomenorrhea
A menstrual period with very light flow or infrequent menstrual cycles in a woman who previously had normal menstruation. Caused by a hormone imbalance.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome is caused by high levels of estradiol and progestrone just prior to menstruation. This causes Breast tenderness, fluid retention, bloating, and mild mood changes a few days before the onset of menstruation.
Cervical cancer
Cancerous tumor of the cervix, If the cancer is still localized in one sire, it is known as carcinoma in situ (CIS).
There is severe dysplasia of the cells as seen on a Pap test. Later there is ulceration and bleeding. Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) or genital warts, predisposes to the development of cervical cancer.
Cervical dysplasia
Abnormal growth of squamous cells in the surface layer of the cervix.
It can be cause by infection with the HPV.
Cervical dysplasia is seen on an abnormal Pap test. Severe dysplasia is a precancerous or cancerous condition.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial infection of the vagina due to Gardnerella vaginalis. There is a white or grayish vaginal discharge that has a fishy odor. This infection is not a sexually transmitted disease.
Candidiasis
Yeast infection of the vagina due to Candida albicans.
There is vaginal itching and leukorrhea, a cheesy, white discharge. Candidiasis can occur after taking an antibiotic drug for a bacterial infection.
Cystocele
Herniation of the bladder into the vagina because of a weakness in the vaginal wall. It is caused by childbirth or age. It can result in urinary retention.
Dyspareunia
Painful or difficult sexual intercourse with postcoital pain. This can happen when the hymen is across the vaginal into it us or because of infection, pelvic inflammatory disease, or endometriosis.
Retroversion
Retroversion of the uterus (a backwards tipping of the uterus from its normal position of being tipped anteriorly over the bladder) can also cause dyspareunia.
Rectocele
Herniation of the rectum into the vagina because of weakness in the vaginal wall. It is caused by childbirth or age. It can interfere with bowel movements.
Vaginitis
Vaginal inflammation or infection. Inflammation can be caused by irritation from chemicals in spermicidal jelly or douches.
Infection can be caused by candidiasis or a bacterial or viral sexually transmitted disease.
Breast cancer
Cancerous tumor, usually adenocarcinoma of the lactiferous lobules of the breast. A lump is detected during mammography or breast self-examination.
There can be swelling in the area, enlarged lymph nodes, and nipple discharge.
Failure of lactation
Lack of production of milk from the breasts after childbirth. It is caused by hyposecretion of prolactin from the anterior pituitary gland. The breasts do not produce milk or produce an insufficient amount of milk to breastfeed the baby.
Fibrocystic breasts
Benign condition in which numerous fibrous and fluid-filled cysts form in one or both breasts. The sizes of the cysts can change in response to hormone levels. The cysts can be painful and tender.
Galactorrhea
Discharge of milk from the breasts when the patient is not pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is cause by an increased level of prolactin from an adenocarcinoma in the anterior pituitary gland.
Abnormal presentation
Birth position in which the presenting part f the fetus is not the head. In a breech presentation, the presenting part is the buttocks, the buttocks and feet, or just the feet.
Abruptio placentae
Complete or partial separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before the third stage of labor. This results in uterine hemorrhage that threatens the life of the mother as well as disruption of blood flow and oxygen through the umbilical cord, which threatens the life of the fetus.
Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD)
The size of the fetal head exceeds the size of the opening in the mother’s pelvic bones, and the fetus cannot be born vaginally.
Dystopia
Any type of difficult or abnormal labor and delivery.
Ectopic pregnancy
Implantation of a fertilized ovum somewhere other than in the uterus. It can implant in the cervix, the ovary, or in the abdominopelvic cavity, but most commonly implants in the uterine tube.
This occurs more often if the uterine tube has scar tissue or a blockage in it.
Patient has a positive pregnancy test, but there is abdominal tenderness as the uterine tube swells from the developing embryo.
Gestational diabetes mellitus
Temporary disorder of glucose metabolism that occurs only during pregnancy. Increased levels of estradiol and progesterone during pregnancy block the action of insulin from the pancreas.
Hydatidiform mole
Abnormal union of an ovum and spermatozoon. It produces hundreds of small, fluid-filled sacs but no embryo.
The chorion produces HCG, so the patient that early signs of pregnancy. However, the hydatidiform mole grows more rapidly than a normal pregnancy, and the uterus is much larger than expected for the gestational age.
Incompetent cervix
Spontaneous, premature dilation of the cervix during the second trimester of pregnancy. This can result in spontaneous abortion of the fetus.
Mastitis
Inflammation or infection of the breast. It is caused by milk engorgement in the breast or by an infection due to the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus from the nursing infant’s mouth or on the mother’s skin.
Morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting that is common, but temporary, condition during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is thought to be due to elevated estradiol and progestrone levels.
Hyper emesis gravidarum
Excessive vomiting that causes weakness, dehydration, and fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
Oligohydramnios
Decreased volume of amniotic fluid. The fetus swallows amniotic fluid but does not excrete a similar volume in its urine because of a congenital abnormality of the fetal kidneys.
Oligohydramnios is identified during a routine prenatal ultrasound test.
Placenta Previa
Incorrect position of the placenta with its edge partially or completely covering the cervical canal. During labor when the cervix dilates the connection between the placenta and uterus is suddenly disrupted.
Polyhydramnios
Increased volume of amniotic fluid. It is caused by maternal diabetes mellitus, twin gestation, or abnormalities in the fetus.
Postpartum hemorrhage
Continual bleeding after delivery from the site where the placenta separated form the uterine wall.
The uterus is boggy (soft) and the myometrium does not contract to become firm as it should.
Preeclampsia
Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy with increased blood pressure, edema, weight gain, and protein in the urine (proteinuria).
The kidneys allow protein from the blood to be lost in the urine.
Low levels of blood protein change the osmotic pressure of the blood and allow fluid to move into the tissues and cause edema.
Premature labor
Regular uterine contractions that occur before the fetus is mature. The cervix can dilate, and small amounts of blood or amniotic fluid can leak out.
Premature rupture of membranes (PROM)
Spontaneous rupture of the amniotic sac and loss of amniotic fluid before labor begins. The woman must deliver within 24 hours or risk developing a uterine infection.
Prolapsed cord
A loop of umbilical cord slips down and becomes caught between the presenting part of the fetus and the opening to the vagina. This occurs if the membranes rupture before the fetal head is fully entangled in the woman’s pelvis.
Spontaneous abortion (SAB)
Loss of a pregnancy. An early spontaneous abortion usually occurs because of a genetic abnormality or poor implantation of the embryo in the endometrium. A late spontaneous abortion can occur because of preterm labor or an incompetent cervix.
Uterine inertia
Weak or uncoordinated contractions during a long and nonproductive labor.
Caused by 1. Decreased level of oxytocin secreted by the posterior pituitary gland
2. The uterus being distended with mulitple fetuses and unable to contract normally.
Apnea
Temporary or permanent cessation of breathing in the newborn after birth.
Fetal distress
Lack of oxygen to the fetus because of decreased blood flow through the placenta or umbilical cord. The fetus has a decreased heart rate and passes meconium because of the stress of a decreased level of oxygen.
Growth abnormalities
Maternal illness, malnutrition, and smoking can make the fetus small for gestational age (SGA)
Infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS)
Difficulty inflating the lungs to breathe because of a lack of surfactant. This occurs mainly in premature newborns.
Jaundice
Yellowish discoloration of the skin in a newborn. During gestation, the fetus has extra red blood cells that are no longer needed after birth.
Meconium aspiration
Fetal distress causes the fetus to pass meconium into the amniotic fluid. This can enter the mouth and nose of the fetus/newborn, and , if inhaled with the first breath, it blocks the airway and causes severe respiratory distress.
Nuchal cord
Umbilical cord is wrapped around the neck of the fetus. A loose nuchal cord can be present without causing a problem.
A tight nuchal cord with one or more loops around the neck can impair blood flow to the brain, causing brain damage or fetal death.
Acid phosphatase
Test for an enzyme from the prostate gland that is found in the semen. The presence of acid phosphatase in the vagina indicates sexual intercourse has occurred, and this can be used in rape investigation.
BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
Blood test that shows if a patient has inherited the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, genetic mutations that significantly increase the risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
Estrogen and progesterone receptor assay
Cytology test performed on breast tissue that has already been diagnosed as malignant. This test looks for a large number or estrogen and progesterone receptors on the tumor cells.
HER2 Status
Cytology test performed on breast tissue that has already been diagnosed as malignant. This test measures the amount of HER2 protein in the cancer cells or the number of HER2 genes in the cancer cells.
Pap test
Screening cytology test used to detect abnormal cells or carcinoma in situ of the cervix. Also known as Pap smear.
Wet mount
Cytology test to detect yeasts, parasites, or bacteria. A swab of vaginal discharge is sent to a laboratory.
The cells are placed on a slide, mixed with saline solution, and examined under a microscope.
Antiserum antibody test
Test that detects antibodies against sperm in the woman’s cervical mucus.
Some antibodies attack the tail of the spermatozoon so that it cannot swim.
Hormone testing
Blood test to determine the levels of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland and estradiol and progesterone from the ovaries.
It is used to diagnose menstruation and infertility problems.
Amniocentesis
Procedure to test the amniotic fluid. Using ultrasound guidance, a needle is inserted through the pregnant woman’s abdomen and into the uterus to obtain a sample of amniotic fluid.
Chromosome studies
chromosome studies of fetal skin cells can determine the sex of the fetus and identify genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome.
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP)
An increased level indicates a neural tube defect
L/S ration (Lecithin/sphingomyelin)
Test for fetal lung maturity. Lecithin is a component of surfactant that keeps the alveoli from collapsing with each exhalation.
Sphingomyelin is also a component of surfactant, and its level is higher when the fetal lungs are immature; when the lungs are mature, the lecithin level is higher.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Genetic test of the chorionic villi of the placenta.
A needle is inserted through the pregnant woman’s abdomen or a catheter is inserted through the cervix to aspirate some of the chorionic villi from the placenta.
Pregnancy test
Blood test to detect human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) secreted by the fertilized ovum.
Serum HCG is positive just 9 days after conception.
Hysterosalpingography
Procedure in which radiopaque contrast dye is injected through the cervix and into the uterus. It coats and outlines the uterus and uterine tubes and shows narrowing, scarring, and blockage.
Mammography
Procedure that uses x-rays to create an image of the breast. The breast is compressed and slightly flattened.
Ultrasonography
Procedure that uses ultra high-frequency sound waves emitted by a transducer or probe to produce an image on a computer screen.
colposcopy
Procedure that uses a magnifying, lighted scope to visually examine the vagina and cervix
Gynecologic examination
Procedure to physically examine the external and internal genitalia. This is performed with the patient supine in the dorsal lithotomy position.
Breast self-examination (BSE)
Procedure to systematically palpate all areas of the breast to detect lumps, masses, or enlarged lymph nodes. BSE should be done monthly to detect early signs of breast cancer.
Tanner staging
System used to describe the development of the female breasts from childhood through puberty. There are five different stages, from Tanner stage 1 (nipple and areola are flat against the chest wall) to Tanner stage 5 (enlargement of the entire breast).
Amniotomy
Procedure in which a hooked instrument is inserted into the cervical os to rupture the amniotic sac and induce labor.
Apgar score
Procedure that assigns a score to a newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth. Points (0-2) are given fro each of the following: heart rate, respiratory rate, muscle tone, response to stimulation, and skin color, for a total possible score of 10
Assisted delivery
Procedure in which a vacuum extractor is used to exert gentle suction to facilitate delivery of the head of the newborn during a vaginal delivery.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART)
Procedures that use technology to assist the process of conception.
In vitro fertilization (IVF)
The woman receives ovulation-stimulating drugs. Then mature ova are harvested with a needle inserted into the ovary. Some of the ova are combined with spermatozoa and allowed to grow from 2 to 5 days in a culture medium.
Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)
The same procedure is followed by the fertilized ovum (zygote) is inserted into the uterine tube.
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT)
The ova and spermatozoa (gamete) are collected, and both are immediately inserted into the uterine tube.
Epidural anesthesia
Procedure to produce local anesthesia by injecting an anesthetic drug into the epidural space between vertebrae in the woman’s lower back.
Fundal height
Procedure to measure the height of the uterine fundus during each prenatal visit. The fundus of the uterus moves superiorly as pregnancy progresses.
Induction of labor
Procedure that uses an oxytocin drug to induce (cause) labor to begin. This is done when the women is past her estimated due date or when the health of the woman or fetus necessitates delivery.
Nagele rule
Procedure used to calcutlate the estimated date of birht also known as the estimated date of delivery or “due date.” This is done by adding 9 months and 7 days to the date of the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period.
Nonstress test (NST)
Procedure that uses an external monitor on the woman’s abdomen to display and monitor the fetal heart rate (FHR).
Obstetrical history
Procedure to document past pregnancies and deliveries, which is a standard of good prenatal care.
Version
Procedure to manually correct a breech or other malpresentation of the fetus prior to delivery. The obstetrician puts his or her hands on the woman’s abdominal wall and manipulates the uterus until the fetus is in a cephalic presentation.
Antiyeast drug
Applied topically to treat Candida albicans infection of the vagina
Drug for amenorrhea and abnormal uterine bleeding
Corrects the lack of hormones.
Drug for contraception to prevent pregnancy
Suppresses the release of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland. Other drugs kill sperm or keep them from reaching the uterus.
Drug for endometriosis
Suppresses the menstrual cycle for several months and causes endometrial implants in the pelvic cavity to atrophy.
Drug used to dilate the cervix
Applied topically to the cervix to cause dilation and effacement
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) drug
Treats the symptoms and consequences of menopause (hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis) caused by a decreased level of estradiol.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Treats the pain associated with dysmenorrhea
Ovulation-stimulating drug
Stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to secrete FSH and LH to stimulate ovulation and treat infertility. These drugs cause several mature ova to be released at the same time for in vitro fertilization.
Tocolytic drug
Suppresses uterine contractions to prevent premature labor and delivery
Biopsy (Bx)
Procedure used to diagnose abnormal uterine bleeding and uterine cancer. An endometrial biopsy uses a speculum to visualize the cervix and a dilator to expand the cervical os.
Cryosurgery
Procedure to destroy small areas of abnormal tissue on the cervix. Colposcopy is used to visualized the cervical lesions. Then a cryoprobe containing extremely cold liquid nitrogen is touched to the areas to freeze and destroy the abnormal tissues.
Dilation and curettage (D&C)
Procedure to remove abnormal tissue from inside the uterus for the purpose of treating abnormal uterine bleeding, diagnosing uterine cancer, performing a therapeutic abortion, or removing the products of conception following a spontaneous but incomplete abortion.
Endometrial ablation
Procedure that uses heat or cold to destroy the endometrium to treat abnormal uterine bleeding. A laser, hot fluid in a balloon, or an electrode with electrical current is inserted into the uterus.
Hysterectomy
Procedure to remove the uterus because of uterine fibroids, endometriosis, uterin prolapse, abnormal uterine bleeding, or uterine or cervical cancer.
Laparoscopy
Procedure to visualize the abdominopelvic cavity, uterus, uterine tubes, and ovaries.
Myomectomy
Procedure to remove Leiomyomata (uterine fibroids) from the uterus.
Oophorectomy
Procedure to remove an ovary becasue of large ovarian cysts or ovarian cancer.
Saplings to my
Procedure to remove the uterine tube because of ovarian cancer or an ectopic pregnancy in the tube.
Therapeutic abortion (TAB)
Procedure for planned termination of a pregnancy at any time during gestation.
Tubal ligation
Procedure to prevent pregnancy. A short segment of each uterine tube is removed.
Uterine artery embolization
procedure used to treat uterine fibroids. A catheter is inserted into the femoral artery in the groin and threaded to the uterine artery.
uterine suspension
Procedure to suspend and fix the uterus in an anatomically correct position.
Colporrhaphy
procedure to suture a weakness in the vaginal wall. Done to correct a cystocele or a rectocele that is bulging into the vaginal canal.
Conization
Procedure to remove a large, cone-shaped section of tissue that includes the cervical os and part of the cervical canal.
Culdoscopy
Procedure that begins in the vagina and curl-de-sac but whose ultimate purpose is to examine the abdominopelvic cavity and the external surfaces of the uterus, uterine tubes, and ovaries for signs of endometriosis.
Biopsy (Bx)
Procedure to remove a small piece of tissue for examination under a microscope to look for abnormal or cancerous cells.
Lumpectomy
Procedure to excise a small malignant tumor of the breast. Adjacent normal breast tissue and the axillary lymph nodes are also removed in case any cancerous cells have already spread to them
Mammaplasty
Procedure to change the size, shape, or position of the breast. Also known as a mammoplasty
Mastectomy
Procedure to surgically remove part of all of the breast to excise a malignant tumor.
Reconstructive breast surgery
Procedure to rebuild a breast after a mastectomy. this can be done at the same time as the mastectomy or as a later operative procedure.
DIEP (Deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap
An incision is made in the lower abdomen, and the skin and fat are excised as a flap. The blood vessels in the flap are reattached to blood vessels in the chest wall.
TRAM (transverse Rectus abdominis muscle) flap
A transverse incision is made around an area in the abdomen. Skin, fat, and muscle are excised, except for one end that is left attached to the blood vessels there
Cerclage
Procedure to place a purse-string suture around the cervix to prevent it from dilating prematurely.
Cesarean Section
Procedure to deliver a fetus. It is done because of cephalopevic disproportion, failure to progress during labor, the mother being past the due date, or medical problems in the mother or fetus.
Episiotomy
Procedure that makes an incision in the posterior edge of the vagina and into the perineum to prevent a spontaneous tear of those tissue during delivery of the baby’s head.
AB, Ab
Abortion
AFP
Alpha fetoprotein
AGA
Appropriate for gestational age
ART
Assisted reproductive technology
ASC
Atypical squamous cells
AUB
Abnormal uterine bleeding
BPD
Biparietal diameter (of the fetal head)
BPP
Biophysical profile
BRCA
Breast cancer (gene)
BSE
Breast self-examination
BSO
Bilateral salpingitis-oophorectomy
Bx
Biopsy
Ca
Cancer; carcinoma
CIN
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
CNM
Certified nurse midwife
CPD
Cephalopelvic disproportion
CVS
Chorionic villus sampling
D&C
Dilation and curettage
DIEP
Deep inferior epigastric perforator
DUB
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
EDB
Estimated date of birth
EDC
Estimated date of confinement
EDD
Estimated date of delivery
ER+
Estrogen receptor positive
FHR
Fetal heart rate
FSH
Follicle-stimulating hormone
G
Gravida
GIFT
Gamete intrafallopian transfer
GU
Genitourinary
GYN
Gynecology
HCG
Human chorionic gonadotropin
HER2
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
HPV
Human papillomavirus
HRT
Hormone replacement therapy
HSIL
High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
ICSI
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
IRDS
Infant respiratory distress syndrome
IUGR
Intrauterine growth retardation
IVF
In vitro fertilization
L&D
Labor and delivery
LEEP
Loop electro surgical excision proceudre
LGA
Large for gestational age
LH
Luteinizing hormone
LMP
Last menstrual period
L/S
Lecithin/sphingomyelin
LSIL
Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging
NB
Newborn
NICU
Neonatal intensive care unit
NST
No stress test
NSAID
No steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
OB
Obstetrics
OB/GYN
Obstetrics and gynecology
P
para
Pap
Papanicolaou (test or smear)
PID
Pelvic inflammatory disease
PMDD
Premenstral dysphoric disorder
PMS
Premenstrual syndrome
PR+
Progestrone receptor positive
PROM
Premature rupture of membranes
ROM
Rupture of membranes
SAB
Spontaneous abortion
SCC
Squamous cell carcinoma
SGA
Small for gestational age
TAB
Therapeutic abortion
TAH-BSO
Total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
TPAL
Term newborns, premature newborns, abortions, living children
TRAM
Transverse Rectus abdominis muscle (flap)
TVH
Total vaginal hysterectomy
VBAC
Vaginal birth after cesarean section
ZIFT
Zygote intrafallopian transfer
