union of the sperm cell and ovum from which the embryo develops
fetus
stage in prenatal development from 8 to 39 or 40 weeks.
gonad
female or male reproductive organ that produces sex cells and hormones; ovary or testis
menarche
beginning of the first menstrual period and ability to reproduce
menopause
gradual ending of menstruation
menstruation
monthly shedding of the uterine lining. THe flow of blood and tissue normally discharged during menstruation is called the meses (Latin mensis means month)
ovulation
release of the ovum from the ovary
parturition
act of giving birth
puberty
point in the life cycle at which secondary sex characteristics appear and gametes are produced
zygote
stage in prenatal development from fertilization and implantation to 2 weeks
cervicitis
inflammation of the cervix
carcinoma of the endometrium (endometrial cancer)
malignant tumor of the uterus (adenocarcinoma)
fibroids
benign tumors in the uterus
ovarian cysts
collections of fluid within a sac (cyst) in the ovary
carcinoma of the breast (breast cancer)
malignant tumor of the breast (arising from milk glands and ducts).
fibrocystic disease
numerous small sacs of fibrous connective tissue and fluid in the breast.
multiple gestation
more than one fetus inside the uterus
Pap test (Pap smear)
microscopic examination of stained cells removed from the vagina and cervix.
mammography
x-ray imaging of the breast.
cauterization
destruction of tissue by burning
conization
removal of a cone-shaped section (cone biopsy) of the cervix.
dilation (dilatation) and curettage (D&C)
widening the cervix and scraping off the endometrial lining of the uterus.
amniocentesis
needle puncture of the amniotic sac to withdraw amniotic fluid for analysis.
Cesarean section
surgical insion of the abdominal wall and uterus to deliver a fetus.