PSYO 353 Flashcards
1
Q
Erotic
A
Arousing sexual feelings or desires
2
Q
Gender
A
The behavioral, cultural, or psychological traits typically associated with one’s sex. Gender is distinct from anatomic sex, which is based on the physical differences between males and females
3
Q
Gender roles
A
Complex clusters of ways men and women are expected to behave
4
Q
Human sexuality
A
The way we experience and express ourselves as sexual beings
5
Q
Phallic worship
A
Veneration of the penis as a symbol of generative power
6
Q
Phallic symbols
A
An object that represents the penis
7
Q
Incest taboo
A
The prohibition against intercourse with close blood relatives
8
Q
Plolygamy
A
Simultaneous marriage to more than one person
9
Q
Monogamy
A
Marriage to one person
10
Q
Pederasty
A
Sexual love between a man and a boy
11
Q
Bisexual
A
Sexually responsive to either gender
12
Q
Courtesans
A
A prostitute, especially the mistress of a noble or wealthy man
13
Q
Concubine
A
A secondary wife, usually of inferior legal and social status
14
Q
Sexologist
A
A scientist who studies sexual behaviour
15
Q
Analogue
A
Something that is similar or comparable to something else
16
Q
Copulation
A
Sexual intercourse
17
Q
Theory
A
A set of ideas or concepts intended to explain something
18
Q
Evolution
A
The development of a species to its present state, which involves adaptations to its environment
19
Q
Natural selection
A
The evolutionary process by which adaptive traits enable members of a species to survive to reproductive age and transmit these traits to future generations
20
Q
Sociobiology
A
The idea that social behaviour results from evolution
21
Q
Psychoanalysis
A
The theory of personality originated by Sigmund Freud, which proposes that human behaviour represents the outcome of clashing inner forces
22
Q
Erogenous zones
A
Parts of the body, including but not limited to the sex organs, that are responsive to sexual stimulation
23
Q
Psychosexual development
A
In psychoanalytic theory, the process by which sexual feelings shift from one erogenous zone to another
24
Q
Oedipus complex
A
In psychoanalytical theory, a conflict of the phallic stage in which the boy wishes to possess his mother sexually and perceives his father as a rival in love
25
Behaviourism
A psychological approach to understanding learning, focusing on observable behaviours and emphasizing the role of environmental factors or external stimuli in shaping behaviour
26
Classical conditioning
A process by which an association is formed between a naturally occurring stimulus and a previously neutral one
27
Operant conditioning
A process by which an individual changes his or her behaviour as a result of consequences (e.g., reinforcements or punishments)
28
Social learning theory
A learning theory that proposes learning is a cognitive process that takes place in a social environment, primarily focusing on rewards and punishments in shaping behaviours
29
Social-cognitive theory
A cognitively oriented learning theory in which observational learning interacts with behaviour, the environment, and cognition
30
Sexual script theory
A theory that examines sexuality from the standpoint of culturally learned scripts that specify how men and women should behave sexually
31
Traditional sexual script
A sexual script based on stereotypical standards for sexual behaviour that dictates that males take an assertive and active role in heterosexual interaction while women take a receptive and passive role
32
Social exchange theory
A theory that examines sexuality within relationships in terms of rewards and costs
33
Feminist theory
A theory that focuses on the subordination of women and the unequal status of girls and women in society
34
Heterosexism
Prejudice or discrimination based on the assumption that heterosexuality is the "normal" state of being
35
Sexual objectification
Treating a person as an object for the purposes of sexual gratification
36
Queer theory
A theory that challenges binary categories for gender and sexuality and provides a framework for analyzing the ways that institutions and social norms privilege some people and identities over others
37
Intersectionality
A theoretical perspective that considers multiple, interacting social categories (e.g., gender and race) and how these affect access to power and resources in society
38
Empirical
Derived from or based on observation and experimentation
39
Hypothesis
A precise prediction about behaviour that is often derived from theory and past research
40
Statistical significance
A relationship found between variables that is likely real or "true" and is not attributed to chance
41
Mixed methods
The mixing of qualitative and quantitative data, methods, methodologies, and/or paradigms in a research study or set of related studies
42
Populations
A defined group of individuals known to have similar characteristics
43
Sample
Part of a population selected for a study
44
Representative sample
A research sample of participants who accurately represent the population of interest
45
Generalize
Use information from a particular case or sample to draw conclusions about a larger phenomenon or population
46
Random sample
A sample in which every member of a population has an equal chance of participating
47
Stratified sample
A random sample in which known subgroups of a population are represented in proportion to their numbers within the population
48
Volunteer bias
A systematic error due to the difference between who volunteer to participate in research studies and those who do not (e.g., their willingness to discuss sexual behaviour)
49
Variables
A person, place, thing, or phenomena researchers attempt to measure in research
50
Demographic
Concerning the vital statistics of a human population (e.g., gender, race, age, education)
51
Correlation
A statistical measure of the relationship between two variables
52
Correlation coefficient
A statistic that expresses the strength and direction (positive or negative) of the relationship between two variables
53
Surveys
A detailed study of a sample obtained using a series on questions administered as questionnaires
54
Validity
The degree to which a test measures what it purports to measure
55
Reliability
The consistency or accuracy of a measure
56
Social desirability
A response bias caused by a subject's tendency to provide a socially acceptable answer to a questionnaire or interview question
57
Vasocongestion
Congestion resulting from the flow of blood
58
Treatment
An experimental intervention (such as a test, drug, or sex education program) that's administered to participants so its effects can be observed
59
External validity
The degree to which the results of a study can be generalized to other situations and people
60
Experiment
A scientific method that seeks to confirm cause-and-effect relationships by manipulating independent variables and observing their effects on dependent variables
61
Independent variable
A condition in a scientific study that is manipulated so its effects can be observed
62
Dependent variable
The condition in a scientific study that is believed to be affected by the independent variable(s). The results of the study are assessed by measuring changes in the dependent variable
63
Experimental group
A group of study participants who receive the experimental treatment
64
Control group
A group of study participants who do not receive the experimental treatment. All other conditions are kept the same for the control group as for the experimental group
65
Selection factor
A research bias that may operate when people are allowed to determine whether they will receive an experimental treatment
66
Focus group
A group of individuals brought together to share their attitudes about a specific topic
67
Case study
A carefully drawn, in-depth biography of an individual or a small group of individuals. This information may be obtained through interviews, questionnaires, and historical records
68
Observer bias
A bias whereby researchers influence the participants in a study or interpret the results of a study incorrectly as a result of their own assumptions
69
Naturalistic observation
A study method in which organisms are observed in their natural environments
70
Ecological validity
The extent to which research findings would generalize in everyday life
71
Replicate
Reproducing study methods and conditions
72
Ethnographic observation
A study method in which behaviours and customs are observed within a group's native environment
73
Participant observation
A study method in which observers interact with their subjects as they collect data
74
Informed consent
Agreement to participate in research after receiving adequate information about the purposes and nature of the study and about its potential risks and benefits
75
Vulva
The external sexual structures of the female
76
Mons veneris
A mound of fatty tissue that covers the pubic bone (the joining of pelvic bones at the front of the body, below the abdomen and above the clitoris). The mons veneris is also known as the mons pubis, or simply the mons
77
Labia majora
Large folds of skin that run downward from the mons along the sides of the vulva
78
Labia minora
Hairless, light coloured folds of skin located between the labia majora
79
Clitoris
A female sex organ consisting of a shaft and a glans, located above the urethral opening. It's extremely sensitive to sexual sensation
80
Corpora cavernosa
Masses of spongy tissue in the clitoral shaft that become engorged with blood and stiffen in response to sexual stimulation
81
Prepuce
The fold of skin covering the glans of the clitoris (or the penis, in male)
82
Homologous
Similar in structure; developing from the same embryonic tissue
83
Analogous
Similar in function
84
Clitoridectomy
Partial or complete removal of the clitoris
85
Urethral opening
The opening through which urine passes from the female's body
86
Cystitis
An inflammation of the urinary bladder
87
Introitus
The vaginal opening
88
Hymen
A fold of tissue across the vaginal opening that's usually present at birth and remains at least partially intact until a woman engages in sexual intercourse
89
Perineum
The skin and underlying tissue that lies between the vaginal opening that the anus
90
Episiotomy
A surgical incision in the perineum that may be made during childbirth to protect the vagina from tearing
91
Sphincters
Ring-shaped muscles that surround the body openings, which they open or close by expanding or contracting
92
Crura
Anatomic structures resembling legs that attach the clitoris to the pubic bone. Singular "crus"
93
Vestibular bulbs
Cavernous structures that extend downward along the sides of the introitus and swell during sexual arousal
94
Vagina
The tubular sex organ that contains the penis during sexual intercourse and through which a baby is born
95
Bartholin's glands
Glands that lie just inside the minor lips and secrete fluids just before orgasm
96
Pubococcygeus muscle
The muscle that encircles the entrance to the vagina
97
Douche
Application of a jet fluid to the vagina as a rinse. From the Italian "doccia" which means "shower bath"
98
Vaginitis
Vaginal inflammation
99
Cervix
The lower end of the uterus
100
Os
The opening or middle of the cervix
101
Uterus
The hollow, muscular, pear-shaped organ in which a fertilized ovum implants and develops until birth
102
Radiotherapy
Treatment of a disease by X-rays or by emissions from a radioactive substance
103
Pap test
Examination of a sample of cervical cells for cervical cancer and other abnormalities.
104
Ovum
Egg cell. Plural "ova"
105
Endometrium
The innermost layer of the uterus
106
Endometriosis
A condition caused by the growth of endometrial tissue in the abdominal cavity, or elsewhere outside the uterus, and characterized by menstrual pain
107
Hysterectomy
Surgical removal of the uterus
108
Complete hysterectomy
Surgical removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and uterus
109
Fallopian tubes
Tubes that extend from the upper uterus toward the ovaries, conducting ova to the uterus
110
Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnancy in which the fertilized ovum implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube
111
Ovaries
Almond-shaped organs that produce ova and the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are part of the endocrine system
112
Estrogen
A generic term for female sex hormones or synthetic compounds that promote the development of female sex characteristics and regulate the menstrual cycle
113
Progesterone
A steroid hormone that stimulates proliferation of the endometrium and is involved in regulation of the menstrual cycle. Progesterone is secreted by the corpus luteum or prepared synthetically
114
Follicle
A capsule within an ovary, containing an ovum
115
Secondary sex characteristics
Traits that distinguish women from men but are not directly involved in reproduction
116
Mammary glands
Milk-secreting glands
117
Areola
The dark ring on the breast that encircles the nipple
118
Cysts
Saclike structures filled with fluid or diseased material
119
Benign
Doing little or no harm
120
Malignant
Lethal; causing or likely to cause death
121
Mammography
A special type of X-ray test that detects cancerous lumps
122
Lumpectomy
Surgical removal of a (usually cancerous) lump from the breast
123
Mastectomy
Surgical removal of all or part of the breast
124
Ovulation
The process by which a mature ovarian follicle ruptures and releases an ovum
125
Corpus luteum
An ovarian follicle that has released an ovum. The corpus luteum remains in existence only if pregnancy begins
126
Endocrine gland
A gland that secretes a hormone directly into he blood, rather than through a duct. Examples include the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands, as well as the ovaries and testes
127
Menarche
The first menstrual period
128
Hypothalamus
A bundle of neural cell bodies involved in regulating body temperature, motivation, and emotion. It's located near the centre of the brain
129
Pituitary gland
The gland that secretes growth hormone, prolactin, oxytocin, and other hormones
130
Hormones
A substance secreted by an endocrine gland to regulate various body functions
131
Testes
The male gonads
132
Testosterone
The male sex hormone that fosters development of male sex characteristics and is connected with the sex drive
133
Proliferative phase
The first phase of the menstrual cycle, which begins with the end of menstruation and lasts about 9 or 10 days. During this phase, the endometrium proliferates
134
Ovulatory phase
The second stage of the menstrual cycle. This is when the follicle ruptures and releases a mature ovum
135
Zygote
A fertilized ovum (egg cell)
136
Secretory phase
The third phase of the menstrual cycle, following the ovulatory phase. Also referred to as the luteal phase, after the corpus luteum, which begins to secrete large amounts of progesterone and estrogen after ovulation
137
Menstrual phase
The fourth phase of the menstrual cycle, when the endometrium is sloughed off in the menstrual flow
138
Tampons
A cylindrical plug of cotton that's inserted into the vagina and left in place to absorb menstrual fluid.
139
Menopause
The cessation of menstruation
140
Perimenopause
The beginning of menopause, usually characterized by 3 to 11 months of amenorrhea (lack of menstruation) or irregular periods. Perimenopause ends with menopause
141
Climacteric
A long-term process, including menopause, that involves the gradual decline in the reproductive capacity of the ovaries
142
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Postmenopausal replacement of naturally occurring estrogen or estrogen and progesterone with synthetic (or sometimes natural) equivalents.
143
Dysmenorrhea
Pain or discomfort during menstruation
144
Primary dysmenorrhea
Menstrual pain or discomfort that occurs in the absence of known organic problems
145
Secondary dysmenorrhea
Menstruation pain or discomfort caused by identified organic problems
146
Prostaglandins
Hormones that cause muscle fibres in the uterine wall to contract, as during labour
147
Mastalgia
A swelling of the breasts that sometimes causes premenstrual discomfort
148
Amenorrhea
Absence of menstruation
149
Primary amenorrhea
Absence of menstruation in a woman who has never menstruated
150
Secondary amenorrhea
Absence of menstruation in a woman who has previously menstruated
151
Anorexia nervosa
A psychological disorder characterized by a desire to lose weight by refusing to eat
152
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
A combination of physical and psychological symptoms (such as anxiety, depression, irritability, weight gain from fluid retention, and abdominal discomfort) that regularly affects many women during the four- to six- day interval that preceded their menses each month
153
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PDD)
A diagnosis used by the American Psychiatric Association to describe cases of PMS that are characterized by extreme changes in mood and impairment of functioning at work, at school, or in social relationships
154
Phallic symbols
Images of the penis that are usually suggestive of generative power
155
Testes
The male sex glands, suspended in the scrotum. They produce sperm cells and male sex hormones. Singular testis
156
Testicles
Testes
157
Penis
The male organ of sexual intercourse
158
Corpora cavernosa
Two cylinders of spongy tissue in the penis that become congested with blood and stiffen during sexual arousal
159
Corpus spongiosum
The spongy body that runs along the bottom of the penis, contains the penile urethra, and enlarges the tip of the penis to form the glans
160
Corona
The ridge that separates the glans from the body of the penis
161
Frenulum
The sensitive strip of tissue that connects the underside of the penile glans to the shaft
162
Root
The base of the penis, which extends into the pelvis
163
Shaft
The body of the penis, which expands as a result of vasocongestion
164
Foreskin
The loose skin that covers the penile glans in an uncircumcised male. It's also referred to as the "prepuce"
165
Circumcision
Surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis
166
Phimosis
An abnormal condition in which the foreskin is so tight that it cannot be withdrawn from the glans
167
Scrotum
The pouch of loose skin that contains the testes
168
Spermatic cord
The cord that suspends a testicle within the scrotum and contains a vas deferens, blood vessels, nerves, and the cremaster muscle
169
Vas deferens
A tube that conducts sperm from the testicle to the ejaculatory duct of the penis. Plural "vas deferentia"
170
Cremaster muscle
The muscle that raises and lowers the testicle in response to temperature change and sexual stimulation
171
Germ cells
A cell from which a new organism develops
172
Sperm
The male germ cell, which fertilizes the ovum
173
Spermatozoa
Mature male germ cells, which fertilize the ova
174
Androgens
The male sex hormones
175
Testosterone
A male steroid sex hormone
176
Secondary sex characteristics
Traits that distinguish the genders but are not directly involved in reproduction
177
Seminiferous Tubules
A tiny, winding, sperm-producing tube located within the lobe of the testis
178
Spermatogenesis
The process by which sperm cells are produced and developed
179
Epididymis
A tube that lies against the back wall of the testicle and serves as a storage facility for the sperm
180
Vasectomy
A sterilization operation in which the vas deferentia are severed
181
Seminal vesicles
A small gland that lies behind the bladder and secretes a fluid that combines with sperm in the ejaculatory duct
182
Ejaculatory duct
A duct formed by the convergence of a vas deferens and a seminal vesicle. Sperm travels via the ejaculatory duct through the prostate gland and into the urethra
183
Andropause
A decline in testosterone resulting in symptoms such as reduced energy, muscle mass, and desire for sex as well as problems with erection
184
Human growth hormone (HGH)
A hormone that helps maintain muscle strength and that may help prevent fat buildup
185
Prostate gland
The gland that lies beneath the bladder and secretes prostatic fluid, which gives semen its characteristic odour and texture
186
Cowper's gland
A structure that lies below the prostate and empties into the urethra during sexual arousal
187
Semen
The whitish fluid that constitutes the ejaculate, consisting of sperm and secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and Cowper's glands
188
Urologist
A physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the urogenital system
189
Urethritis
An inflammation of the bladder or urethra
190
Cryptorchidism
A condition in which at least one of the testicles fails to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum
191
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Enlargement of the prostate gland, due to hormonal changes associated with aging. Its characterized by urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and difficulty starting the flow of urine
192
Prostatitis
Inflammation of the prostate gland
193
Erection
The enlargement and stiffening of the penis as a consequence of its engorgement with blood
194
Performance anxiety
Feelings of worry about being able to function successfully with respect to sexual activity (or any other activity that might be judged by another person)
195
Sacrum
The thick, triangular bone located near the bottom of the spinal column
196
Autonomic nervous system (ANS)
The division of the nervous system that regulates automatic bodily processes, such as heartbeat, pupil dilation, respiration, and digestion
197
Somatic nervous system
The division of the nervous system that regulates voluntary movements, such as wiggling a toe or waving an arm
198
Sympathetic nervous system
The branch of the ANS more active during emotional responses that draw on the body's reserves for energy, such as fear and anxiety. The sympathetic ANS largely controls ejaculation
199
Parasympathetic
The branch of the ANS most active during processes that restore the body's reserves of energy, such as digestion. The parasympathetic ANS largely controls erection
200
Peyronie's disease
An abnormal condition characterized by an excessive curvature of the penis, which can make erection painful
201
Priapism
Persistent and painful erection of the penis
202
Orgasm
The climax of sexual excitement
203
Paraplesia
Sensory and motor paralysis of the lower half of the body
204
Emission stage
The first phase of ejaculation, which involves contractions of the prostate gland, the seminal vesicles, and the upper part of the vas deferens
205
Ampulla
A sac or dilated part of a tube or canal
206
Urethral bulb
The small tube that makes up the prostatic part of the urethral tract. It balloons out as muscles close at either end, trapping semen prior to ejaculation
207
Expulsion stage
The second stage of ejaculation, during which muscles at the base of the penis and elsewhere contract rhythmically, forcefully expelling semen and generally providing pleasurable sensations
208
Retrogade ejaculation
Ejaculation in which the ejaculate empties into the bladder
209
Sexual response cycle
Masters and Johnson's model of sexual response, which consists of four phases
210
Vasocongestion
Swelling of the genital tissues with blood that causes erection of the penis and engorgement of the area surrounding the vaginal opening
211
Myotonia
Muscle tension
212
Excitement phase
The first phase of the sexual response cycle characterized by erection in the male, vaginal lubrication in the female, and muscle tension and increased heart rate in both the male and female
213
Sex flush
A reddish rash that appears on the chest or breasts late in the excitement phase of the sexual response cycle
214
Plateau phase
The second phase of the sexual response cycle characterized by increased vasocongestion, muscle tension, heart rate, and blood pressure, in preparation for orgasm
215
Orgasmic platform
Thickening of the walls of the outer one third of the vagina (due to vasocongestion) during the plateau phase of the sexual response cycle
216
Sex skin
The reddened skin of the labia minora during the plateau phase
217
Resolution phase
The fourth phase of the sexual response cycle, during which the body gradually returns to its pre-aroused state
218
Refractory period
The time following a response (e.g., orgasm) when an individual no longer responds to stimulation
219
Multiple orgasms
One or more additional orgasms following the first, occurring within a short period of time and before the body has returned to its pre-plateau level of arousal
220
Placebo effect
The perception that the consumption of a substance results in an effect even though the substance does not contain properties that cause the effect to occur
221
Anaphrodisiac
A drug or other agent whose effects are antagonistic to sexual arousal or sexual desire
222
Antiandrogen
A drug that reduces the level of androgen in the blood system
223
Erogenous zones
Parts of the body, including but not limited to the sex organs, that are responsive to sexual stimulation
224
Cerebral cortex
The wrinkled surface area (grey matter) of the cerebrum (main part of the brain)
225
Limbic system
A group of structures active in memory, motivation, and emotion. These structures form a fringe along the inner edge of the cerebrum
226
Hormones
A substance, secreted by an endocrine gland, that regulates various body functions
227
Hypogonadism
A condition marked by abnormally low levels of testosterone production
228
Antiandrogens
A drug that reduces the levels of androgen in the blood system
229
Ovariectomies
Surgical removal of the ovaries
230
Cerebral palsy (CP)
A muscular disorder caused by damage to the central nervous system, usually before or during birth, and characterized by spastic paralysis
231
Arthritis
A progressive disease characterized by inflammation of pain in the joints
232
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
A developmental disability that includes difficulty with communication and social interaction and repetitive behaviours
233
Gender
The behavioural, cultural, or psychological traits typically associated with one sex. Gender is distinct from anatomic sex, which is based on the physical differences between females and males
234
Sexual differentiation
The process by which males and females develop distinct reproductive anatomy
235
Chromosomes
A rodlike structure found in the nucleus of every living cell. It carries the genetic code, in the form of genes.
236
Zygote
A fertilized ovum (egg cell)
237
Embryo
The stage of prenatal development that begins with implantation of a fertilized ovum in the uterus and concludes with development of the major organ systems at about two months after conception
238
Inguinal canal
A fetal canal that connects the scrotum and the testes, allowing the latter to descend
239
Cryptorchidism
A condition in which at least one of the testes fails to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum
240
Hermaphrodites
An individual who possesses both ovarian and testicular tissue
241
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
An intersex condition in which a genetic female has internal female structures and masculinized external genitals
242
Gender dysphoria
A sense of incongruity between assigned sex and gender identity that causes significant distress
243
Androgen-insensitivity syndrome (AIS)
An intersex condition in which a genetic male is prenatally insensitive to androgens. Genitals do not become normally masculinized and individuals are typically assigned female at birth.
244
Klinefelter's syndrome
A disorder in which a male has an extra X sex chromosome (XXY)
245
Turner's syndrome
A disorder in which a female has just one X sex chromosome (X)
246
Dominican Republic Syndrome
An intersex condition in which a genetic enzyme disorder prevents testosterone from masculinizing the external genitalia
247
Gender identity
One's inherent sense of being a boy or man, or girl or woman, or another gender
248
Gender binary
A social system that classifies sex and gender into two distinct, opposite forms of masculine and feminine
249
Sex assigned at birth
The classification of anatomic sex assigned to an individual at birth
250
Intersex
Refers to an individual for whom the development of external and/or internal genitalia has been atypical
251
Transgender
A person whose gender identity is different from their assigned sex at birth
252
Agender
An umbrella term for people who don't have a gender or who describe their gender as neutral
253
Gender fluid
A changing or "fluid" gender identity
254
Genderqueer
An identity adopted by people who do not identify or express their gender within the gender binary
255
Two-spirited
A term describing a person who has both masculine and feminine spirits used in some Indigenous communities
256
Transitioning
The activities that some trans people may use to begin living as the gender with which they identify rather than the gender they were assigned at birth
257
Autogynephillic
Descriptive of transgender men who are sexually stimulated by fantasies that their own bodies are female
258
Phalloplasty
Surgical creation of an artificial penis
259
Zona pellucida
A gelatinous layer that surrounds an ovum
260
Hyaluronidase
An enzyme that briefly thins the zona pellucida, enabling one sperm to penetrate
261
Infertility
Inability to conceive a child
262
Motility
Self-propulsion. Motility is the measure of the viability of sperm cells
263
Autoimmune responses
The production of antibodies that attack naturally occurring substances that are (incorrectly) recognized as foreign or harmful
264
Artificial insemination
The introduction of sperm into the reproductive tract through means of other sexual intercourse
265
Endometriosis
A condition caused by the growth of endometrial tissue in the abdominal cavity, or elsewhere outside the uterus, and characterized by menstrual pain
266
Laparoscopy
A medical procedure in which a long, narrow tube (a laparoscope) is inserted through an incision in the navel, permitting visual inspections of organs in the navel cavity
267
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
A method of conception where mature ova are surgically removed from an ovary and placed in a laboratory dish with a sperm
268
Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT)
A method of conception in which sperm and ova are inserted into a fallopian tube to encourage conception
269
Zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT)
A method of conception in which an ovum is fertilized in a laboratory dish, then placed in a fallopian tube
270
Donor IVF
A variation of in vitro fertilization in which an ovum is taken from one woman, fertilized, and injected into the uterus or fallopian tube of another woman
271
Embryonic transfer
A method of conception in which a female volunteer is artificially inseminated by the male partner of the intended mother, then the embryo is removed from the volunteer and inserted into the uterus of the intended mother
272
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
A method of conception in which a single sperm is injected directly into an ovum
273
Surrogate mother
A woman who is impregnated with the sperm of a prospective father via artificial insemination, carries the embryo and fetus to term, and then gives the child to the prospective parents
274
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
A hormone produced by a woman shortly after conception. hCG stimulates the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone. The presence of hCG in a woman's urine indicates that she is pregnant.
275
Morning sickness
Symptoms of pregnancy, including nausea, aversions to specific foods, and vomiting
276
Miscarriage
A spontaneous abortion
277
Germinal stage
The period of prenatal development before implantation in the uterus
278
Period of the Ovum
germinal stage
279
Blastocyst
An embryo that consists of a sphere of cells surrounding a cavity of fluid. This occurs at the germinal stage of embryonic development
280
Embryonic stage
The stage of prenatal development that lasts from implantation through the eighth week. It's characterized by differentiation of the major organ systems
281
Amniotic sac
The sac containing the fetus
282
Amniotic fluid
Fluid within the amniotic sac. It suspends and protects the fetus
283
Placenta
An organ connected to the fetus by the umbilical cord. The placenta serves as a relay station between the mother and the fetus, allowing the exchange of nutrients and wastes
284
Umbilical cord
A tube that connects the placenta to the fetus
285
Teratogens
Environmental influences or agents that can damage an embryo or fetus
286
Critical period of vulnerability
A period when an embryo or fetus is vulnerable to the effects of a teratogen
287
Rubella
A viral infection that causes deafness, intellectual disabilities, and heart disease in an embryo. It's also called German measles.
288
Syphilis
A sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterial infection
289
Stillbirth
Birth of a dead fetus
290
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
A condition caused by HIV that destroys white blood cells in the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to various "opportunistic" diseases
291
Pregnancy-induced hypertension
A life-threatening condition characterized by high blood pressure
292
Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnancy in which the fertilized ovum implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube
293
Rh incompatibility
A condition in which antibodies produced by a pregnant woman are transmitted to the fetus, where they may cause brain damage or death
294
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)
A cluster of symptoms in the infant caused by maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. These symptoms are typified by developmental lags, characteristic facial features, and a smaller-than-average body and brain
295
Braxton-hicks contractions
So-called false labour contractions, which are relatively painless
296
Efface
Cause to become thin
297
Dilate
Open or widen
298
Transition
The process during which the cervix becomes almost fully dilated and infant's head begins to move in birth canal
299
Episiotomy
A surgical incision in the perineum that widens the birth canal, preventing random tearing during childbirth
300
Perineum
The area between the vulva and the anus
301
Lamaze method
A childbirth method during which a woman learns how to relax and breathe in patterns that conserve energy and lessen pain, with the help of a coach (usually the father) who's present during the birth. AKA prepared childbirth
302
Caesarean section
A method of childbirth in which the fetus is delivered through a surgical incision in the abdomen
303
Transverse position
A crosswise birth position
304
Midwife
A health professional who provides primary care to a woman and her baby during pregnancy, labour, birth, and and the postpartum period
305
Preterm
Born before 37 weeks of gestation
306
Postpartum
Following birth
307
Prolactin
A pituitary hormone that stimulates milk production. It comes from root words that mean "for milk"
308
Lactation
Production of milk by the mammary glands
309
Lochia
A reddish vaginal discharge that may persist for a month after childbirth
310
Condom
A sheath made of latex, polyurethane/polisophene or animal membrane (lambskin) that covers the penis and serves as a barrier to sperm following ejaculation
311
Oral contraceptive
A contraceptive that consists of sex hormones and is swallowed
312
Combination pill
A birth-control pill that contains estrogen and progesterone
313
Minipill
A birth-control pill that contains synthetic progesterone, but no estrogen
314
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
A small object that is inserted into the uterus and left in place to prevent conception
315
Diaphragm
A shallow rubber cup or dome that's fitted to the contours of a woman's vagina. It is used with spermicide and inserted before intercourse, to prevent conception
316
Calendar method
A fertility-awareness (rhythm) method of contraception that relies on predicting ovulation by tracking menstrual cycles, typically for 10 to 12 months, and assuming that ovulation occurs 14 days before menstruation
317
Basal-body-temperature (BBT) method
A fertility-awareness method of contraception that relies on predicting ovulation by tracking the woman's temperature during the course of the menstrual cycle
318
Ovulation method
A fertility-awareness method of contraception that relies on predicting ovulation by tracking the viscosity of cervical mucus
319
Viscosity
Stickiness, consistency
320
Peak days
The days during the menstrual cycle when a woman is most likely to be fertile
321
Sterilization
Surgical procedures that render people incapable f reproduction, without affecting sexual activity
322
Vasectomy
A permanent contraceptive method for men in which each vas deferens is cut and tied back or cauterized, to prevent sperm from reaching the urethra
323
Tubal ligation
The most common method of permanent contraception among women, in which the fallopian tubes are surgically blocked, to prevent the meeting of the sperm and ova. It's also called tubal sterilization
324
Minilaparotomy
A kind of tubal sterilization in which a small incision is made in the abdomen to provide access to the fallopian tubes
325
Colpotomy
A kind of tubal sterilization in which the fallopian tubes are approached through an incision in the back wall of the vagina
326
Hysterectomy
Surgical removal of the uterus
327
Douche
Application of a jet of fluid to the vagina as a rinse.
328
Induced abortion
The purposeful termination of pregnancy before the embryo or fetus is capable of sustaining independent life
329
Vacuum aspiration
Removal of the uterine contents via an aspirator (suction machine)
330
Dilation and evacuation (D&E)
Removal of the uterine contents via suction tube and forceps. The uterine wall may be scraped, to ensure the lining has been fully removed.
331
Gender Identity
One's inherent sense of being a boy or a man, or a girl or a woman, or another gender
332
Gender binary
A social system that classifies sex and gender into two distinct, opposite forms of masculine and feminine
333
Sex assigned at birth (assigned sex)
The classification of anatomic sex assigned to an individual at birth
334
Intersex
Refers to an individual for whom the development of external and/or internal genitalia has been atypical
335
Cisgender
A gender identity that matches sex assigned at birth
336
Intersexuality
Atypical development of the external and/or internal genetalia
337
Transgender
A person whose gender identity is different from their assigned sex at birth
338
Agender
An umbrella term for people who do not have a gender or who describe their gender as neutral
339
Gender fluid
A changing or "fluid" gender identity
340
Genderqueer
An identity adopted by people who do not identify or express their gender within the gender binary
341
Two-spirited
A term describing a person who has both masculine and feminine spirits used in some Indigenous communities
342
Transitioning
The activities that some trans people may use to begin living as the gender with which they identify rather than the gender they were assigned at birth
343
Autogynephilic
Descriptive transgender men who are sexually stimulated by fantasies that their own bodies are female
344
Gender roles
Complex clusters of ways men and women are expected to behave
345
Sexism
The prejudgement that a person will possess certain traits because of gender
346
Gender typing
The process by which a child acquires behaviours deemed appropriate for his or her gender
347
Oedipus complex
In psychoanalytic theory, a conflict of the phallic stage in which the boy wishes to possess his mother sexually and perceives his father as a rival for love
348
Socialization
The process by which an individual is guided into socially acceptable behaviour patterns through information, rewards, and punishment
349
Schemas
A concept, or way of interpreting experience or processing information
350
Gender stability
The concept that people retain their genders for a lifetime
351
Gender constancy
The concept that people's genders do not change, even if they alter their dress or behaviour
352
Gender schemas
A cluster of mental representations about male and female physical qualities, behaviours, and personality traits
353
Traditional sexual script
A sexual script based on stereotypical standards for sexual behaviour that dictates that males take an assertive and active role in heterosexual interaction while women tale take a receptive and passive role
354
Psychological androgyny
A state characterized by possession of both stereotypical masculine traits and stereotypical feminine traits
355
Canadian guidelines for sexual health education
A document developed by experts from across Canada to guide professionals in providing sexual health education
Assessment and Planning
Intervention
Evaluation
356
Information-motivation-behavioural skills (IMB) model
A theoretical model that utilizes information, motivation, and behavioural skills to promote sexual heath
357
Abstinence-only programs
An ineffective approach to sexual health education that focuses only on persuading teens not to be sexually active
358
Broadly based sexual health education
An approach that provides students with a broad range of relevant sexual health information so that they can make informed decisions
359
Puberty
The stage of development when reproduction first becomes possible. Puberty begins with the appearance of secondary sex characteristics and ends when the long bones make no further gains in length
360
Secondary sex characteristics
Physical characteristics that differentiate males and females, usually appearing at puberty but not directly involved in reproduction. Examples include bodily distribution of hair and fat, development of muscle mass, and deepening of the voice
361
Primary sex characteristics
Physical characteristics that differentiate males and females and are directly involved in reproduction. These are the sex organs
362
Menarche
The first menstrual period
363
Anovulatory
Without ovulation
364
Serial monogamy
A pattern of becoming involved in one exclusive relationship after another, as opposed to engaging in multiple sexual relationships at the same time
365
Monogamy
Marriage to one person
366
Polygamy
Simultaneous marriage to more than one person
367
Polygyny
A form of marriage in which a man is married to more than one woman at the same time
368
Polyandry
A form of marriage in which a woman is married to more than one man at the same time
369
Homogamy
The practice of marrying someone who is similar to yourself in social background and standing
370
Conventional adultery
Extramarital sex that's kept hidden from one's spouse
371
Consensual adultery
Extramarital sex that's engaged in openly, with the knowledge and consent of one's spouse
372
Swinging
A form of consensual adultery in which both spouses share extramarital sexual experiences (aka mate swapping)
373
Comarital sex
Swinging or mate swapping
374
Polyamory
Any form of open relationship that allows for consensual sex and/or emotional interactions with more than one partner
