Glossary
Adenomyosis: A condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow in the muscle wall of the uterus.
Adhesions: Scarring that binds together the surfaces of tissues.
Bladder: A muscular organ in which urine is stored.
Dysmenorrhea: Discomfort and pain during the menstrual period.
Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue that lines the uterus is found outside of the uterus, usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and other pelvic structures.
Estrogen: A female hormone produced in the ovaries.
Fallopian Tubes: Tubes through which an egg travels from the ovary to the uterus.
Fibroids: Benign growths that form in the muscle of the uterus.
Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Agonists: Medical therapy used to block the effect of certain hormones.
Hormones: Substances produced by the body to control the functions of various organs.
Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus.
Intrauterine Device: A small device that is inserted and left inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
Laparoscopy: A surgical procedure in which an instrument called a laparoscope is inserted into the pelvic cavity through small incisions. The laparoscope is used to view the pelvic organs. Other instruments can be used with it to perform surgery.
Menstruation: The monthly discharge of blood and tissue from the uterus that occurs in the absence of pregnancy.
Ovaries: Two glands, each located on either side of the uterus, that contain the eggs released at ovulation and that produce hormones.
Pelvic Exam: A manual examination of a woman’s reproductive organs.
Progestin: A synthetic form of progesterone that is similar to the hormone produced naturally by the body.
Prostaglandins: Chemicals that are made by the body that have many effects, including causing the muscle of the uterus to contract, usually causing cramps.
Ultrasound Exam: A test in which sound waves are used to examine internal organs.
Uterus: A muscular organ located in the female pelvis that contains and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy.