The cells that normally form the lining of the uterus, grow into the muscular wall of the uterus.
The appendages joined to the uterus; includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes and all associated blood vessels and ligaments.
A group of genetic conditions, present from birth (congenital) that affect the adrenal glands.
The ‘fight or flight’ hormone. Produced in response to fear, panic or perceived threat, it results in a sensation of increased energy and alertness.
Hair loss.
Aluminium (Al) is a silvery-white metal that is classified as a “heavy metal”. In the food supply, it is found in natural sources such as water and food additives. Studies have linked frequent exposure to high levels of aluminum to neurotoxicity (adverse health effects on the central or peripheral nervous system or both), Alzheimer’s disease, and breast cancer.
Lack of periods.
Anti Muellerian Hormone (AMH) is a hormone produced by the ovaries in females, and by the testicles in males. It helps to form the male and female reproductive organs.
Amniotic fluid is removed from the uterus and used to screen the developing baby for chromosomal abnormalities and infections. Can also determine gender of the baby.
The cushioning fluid that surrounds a baby as he or she grows in the uterus.
A deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells. Characterised by a low concentration of haemoglobin.
Medicines used to relieve pain, also known as painkillers.
Male sex hormones, the principle ones are testosterone and androstenedione.
The ovaries do not release an egg during the menstrual cycle and ovulation does not occur.
An antimicrobial substance that destroys bacteria.
Medications used to treat the herpes viruses.
Medications used to treat or prevent malaria.
A substance that kills, or inhibits the growth, of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and fungi).
A substance used to reduce a fever.
A drug that suppresses a retrovirus, such as HIV, preventing it from replicating.
A scoring system used to assess the health of a newborn. Incorporates skin colour, heart rate, reflexes, muscle tone and respiration.
Irregular heart beat.
Arsenic (As) is a metalloid or “semi-metal” found throughout the environment but usually in low concentrations. In high concentrations it is poisonous.
Assisted Reproductive Technology. Fertility treatment that usually involves surgically removing a female’s eggs, combining them with sperm in the laboratory and then returning them to the female’s body as fertilised embryos.
Anti-sperm Antibodies. Antibodies directed against sperm antigens. Act by preventing sperm maturation, blocking sperm movement, preventing fertilisation and/or inhibiting embryo implantation.
Producing or showing no symptoms.
The most common type of eczema; a chronic condition that tends to flare up periodically, making the skin red and itchy.
A type of protein (antibody) produced by the immune system that is directed against one or more of a person’s own proteins (self-antigens).
Two copies of a mutated gene must be present for the disease or trait to develop.
Basophils are a type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow. They are part of your immune system.
Non-cancerous.
An orange-yellow waste product, excreted by the liver, that is formed by the breakdown of red blood cells.
To become concentrated inside the body of a living organism.
A biological sign (molecule, gene, characteristic) that can be used to indicate presence and/or severity of disease.
Removal of cells or tissue from the human body to check for presence and/or extent of disease.
Bismuth (Bi) is a brittle, crystalline, white metal. It is poisonous for humans, causing nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss among other symptoms.
There are 4 main blood groups – A, AB, B and O. Blood group tests are used during pregnancy to confirm which of the 4 main blood groups you belong to and whether you are “Rh” positive or negative in each group (i.e. whether specific antigens can be found on the surface of your red blood cells). Pregnancies where the mother is Rh-positive and the baby is Rh-negative (or vice versa) require special care to prevent problems during labour.
The process of transferring donated blood into the circulation, intravenously. Can be used to replace blood lost during surgery or through injury.
Body Mass Index: Weight in KG, divided by height in metres squared.
Boron (B) is a metalloid or “semi-metal” that can cause irritation to the nose, throat or eyes if exposed to small amounts, and is toxic in high concentrations.
False labour pains caused by the uterus contracting. A sign that your body is preparing for labour.
Baby has their bottom or feet facing towards the cervix, rather than their head.
Cadmium (Cd) is a soft, malleable, bluish white metal found in zinc ores. Acute exposure to cadmium can result in flu-like symptoms and damage to the lungs.
Or C-section. The use of surgery to deliver a baby through a cut in the mother’s abdomen.
A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, which can result in vision disturbances.
A complete blood count (CBC), also known as a full blood count, is a set of medical laboratory tests that measure the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood, including the different types of white blood cells.
Measures the number of CD4 white blood cells. An indication of how robust the immune system is.
An autoimmune disorder in which ingestion of gluten causes damage to the small intestine.
A common, potentially serious, bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin.
Also known as cervical weakness. The cervix shortens and starts to dilate during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Part of the female reproductive system. The lowest portion of the uterus; it is composed of fibromuscular tissue and opens into the vagina.
A drug treatment used to kill rapidly dividing cells. Used most frequently in cancer treatment.
Chlamydia, caused by the bacteria Chlamydia Trachomatis, is a common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and can be easily cured.
The presence of gallstones (calculi) in the gallbladder.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance used by the body to build healthy cells. High levels can cause fatty deposits in the bloodstream and increase the risk of heart disease.
CVS. Cells are taken from the placenta to check for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the developing baby.
DNA molecules that contains the genetic material of an organism. Each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes.
An ongoing, long-term response to endogenous or exogenous inflammatory stimuli
Removal of the foreskin of the penis. Usually performed on newborn baby boys for religious reasons.
A genus of rod-shaped, gram positive bacteria. Present in the intestinal tract of humans.
The process of bacteria growing within the body without causing any infection.
The first form of breast milk produced by the mammary glands; rich in nutrients and antibodies.
Bowel movements are less frequent and it becomes difficult to pass stools.
The muscles of the uterus tense up and then relax; and the abdomen becomes hard. Those contractions that are felt during childbirth increase in intensity and duration as labour progresses.
Copper (Cu) is a soft, malleable metal and is essential for good health. However, high exposure to copper can be harmful, causing headaches, dizziness and nausea.
The blood that remains in the placenta and umbilical cord after birth. Contains stem cells, which can be banked and used in the future.
Cortisol is the main stress hormone and is made in the adrenal glands. It is used by the body to metabolise glucose, regulate blood pressure, and respond to danger.
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a protein made by the liver when there is inflammation in the body. The hs-CRP test is used to check levels of inflammation.
An inherited condition that causes the build up of thick, sticky mucus along the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Inflammation of the bladder. In most cases the cause is a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Toxic to living cells.
Removing toxic substances from a living organism.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. A non-invasive test to measure bone mineral density.
Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) is an androgen hormone produced mainly by the adrenal cortex. It supports the production of other male and female hormones.
A procedure to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys no longer work properly.
Loose or watery bowel movements.
The action of becoming wider or more open. During labour, the cervix dilates to approximately 10cm (termed fully dilated).
A non-invasive test that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to measure blood flow through the arteries and veins.
A genetic disorder that arises when a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. Common symptoms are delayed growth and mild to moderate intellectual disability.
The date at which spontaneous labour is expected to occur. Calculated by adding 280 days to the first day of the last period.
A microbial imbalance inside the body, which is associated with disease.
Painful periods/menstrual cramps.
Pain during sexual intercourse.
Pain, discomfort or a burning sensation during urination.
Pregnancy complication whereby the embryo implants outside of the uterus.
External Cephalic Version. A manual procedure used to gently turn a breech baby to enable a vaginal delivery.
The thinning of the cervix during labour; expressed as a percentage. Also known as shortening, softening, or ripening.
A procedure that uses heat from an electric current to destroy abnormal tissue.
A blocked artery. Usually caused by a blood clot, a globulus of fat or a pocket of air. Restricts blood flow.
Chemicals that interrupt hormonal (endocrine) systems.
Compounds that mimic or interfere with the function of hormones in the body.
A cyst that forms when endometrial tissue grows in the ovaries.
Tissue that is similar to the lining of the uterus (womb) grows elsewhere in the body.
Inflammation of the lining of the uterus (womb).
Natural painkillers. These hormones act on opiate receptors to reduce pain and increase well-being.
Biological ‘catalysts’ that speed up chemical reactions in the body.
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell with small particles with enzymes released during infections, asthma, and allergic reactions.
A highly convoluted tube that connects the testes to the vas deferens in the male reproductive system.
Local anaesthetic injected into the lower back to help manage the pain of labour.
A cut made into the opening of the vagina to enlarge the space for the baby to pass through during childbirth.
Estradiol (E2), also spelled “oestradiol”, is the main female sex hormone. It is produced by the ovaries and is one of the hormones responsible for ovulation.
Part of the female reproductive system. A pair of tubes along which an ova (egg) travels from the ovaries to the uterus.
A test result which wrongly indicates that a particular condition or attribute is absent.
A test result which wrongly indicates that a particular condition or attribute is present.
A fasting blood glucose test measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast (not eating). A fasting blood sugar level of 99 mg/dL or lower is normal, 100 to 125 mg/dL indicates you have prediabetes, and 126 mg/dL or higher indicates you have diabetes.
Food and Drug Administration (USA). Protects and promotes public health through the control of monitoring of food and pharmaceutical products.
Ferritin is a protein in your blood that contains iron. A ferritin test helps your doctor understand how effective your body is at storing iron and how much it has stored.
A method of examining the posterior pelvis by inserting an optical device through the posterior vaginal fornix.
Abnormal growths that develop in and around a female’s uterus.
Conditions that affect a foetus or embryo, which may be fatal or cause disease after birth.
A vitamin that is important for red blood cell formation and healthy cell growth. Involved in DNA synthesis. Critical during pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects
A small hole in the heart that allows blood to flow between the two upper chambers. Normally closes soon after birth.
Free triiodothyronine (Free T3 or FT3) is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It fluctuates in individuals with an over- or underactive thyroid gland.
Free tetraiodothyronine (Free T4 or FT4) is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It fluctuates in individuals with an over- or underactive thyroid gland.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone. A gonadotrophic hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Works with luteinising hormone to regulate reproductive processes.
Describes a baby born between 39 weeks and 40 weeks and six days.
An organism’s mature reproductive cells. Also known as sex cells. Ovum or egg cells in the female and sperm in the male.
A doctor that treats problems and diseases of the digestive system.
A substance that functionally removes an ingested toxin from the gastrointestinal tract. A therapy administered after exposure to poisons.
A type of STD that appears as a group of bumps in the genital area. Can be painful, but usually asymptomatic.
A biological cell that gives rise to the gametes of an organism.
Diabetes that is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy.
A group of eye diseases that cause damage to the optic nerve. Usually caused by a fluid build-up that increases pressure inside the eye.
Gold (Au) is a soft, yellow metal. Pure gold is chemically inert and passes through the human digestive system without being absorbed into the body.
Damaging to the gonads (ovaries and testes).
Gonorrhea, caused by the bacteria Neisseria Gonorrhoeae, is a common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) and can be cured.
Genome-wide association study. Scanning the genomes of many people to find genetic variations associated with a particular disease.
A doctor who specialises in women’s health, focusing on the female reproductive system.
A protein found in the red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body.
The rupture or destruction of red blood cells. Leads to the release of haemoglobin into the blood stream.
Also known as piles. Enlarged blood vessels that are found in and around the anus and rectum. Can cause itching, pain and bleeding.
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a measurement of the total amount of glucose bound to red blood cells. A HbA1c test is used to indicate average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
HCT (Hematocrit) is the ratio that determines if you have too many or few red blood cells.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is referred to as “good cholesterol”. It absorbs cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, where it is flushed from the body.
A burning pain in the chest, often exacerbated by eating. Caused by stomach acid passing back up towards the throat (acid reflux).
Hepatitis B is a vaccine-preventable liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is spread through contact with bodily fluids from an infected person.
Hepatitis C is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is spread through contact with blood from an infected person, for example, through shared needles.
HGB (Hemoglobin) is an iron-containing protein responsible for transporting oxygen to the blood tissues.
Excessive body hair, in places where hair growth is normally absent or minimal.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system and is spread by exposure to human bodily fluids (for example, during intercourse).
The ability of an organism to maintain a stable internal environment, capable of sustaining life.
Homocysteine is a type of chemical (or “amino acid”) used by the body to make proteins. Normally, the B vitamins break down homocysteine leaving very little in the bloodstream.
A sudden feeling of intense warmth, usually over the face and chest. Common during the menopause.
Human Papillomavirus. The most common viral infection of the reproductive tract. There are over 100 strains; many have no symptoms, but certain variants can lead to genital warts or cancer.
Hormone Replacement Therapy. A treatment to relieve the symptoms of the menopause. Replaces those hormones whose levels fall as a female approaches the menopause.
The abnormal accumulation of fluid in a baby’s tissues and organs.
High levels of androgens in females.
An excess of bilirubin in the blood that may cause jaundice.
Severe morning sickness that causes nausea and vomiting; it can also lead to dehydration.
High blood sugar levels
Higher than normal levels of insulin in the blood.
Darker patches of skin that result from excess melatonin production.
Abnormally high levels of prolactin in the blood.
High blood pressure.
A disorder characterised by the thyroid gland producing too much thyroid hormone.
A fall in blood sugar to below normal levels. Can result in confusion, clumsiness and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Low blood sugar levels.
A region of the brain involved in many body functions, including the release of hormones and regulation of body temperature.
A disorder characterised by insufficient thyroid hormone production.
The sudden loss of the body’s blood or fluid supply. A serious condition that can lead to organ failure because the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood around the body.
A surgical procedure to remove the uterus (womb).
A specialised X-ray used to examine the inside of the uterus and check for blockages in the fallopian tubes.
A disease that occurs when the immune system is not working properly
The stage in early pregnancy when the embryo attaches to the wall of the uterus.
Indium (In) a soft, ductile metal that is not widely found in the environment. Indium compounds in the human body can damage the heart, liver and kidneys.
A failure to conceive, despite having unprotected sexual intercourse for at least a year.
The body’s normal response to injury, irritation or infection. Symptoms include swelling, redness, warmth and pain.
A sleep disorder that makes it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Cells of the body do not respond to insulin and cannot use glucose from the blood for energy.
Iron is a malleable, silver-grey metal. It is an essential element for blood production, found in red blood cells. It is used to transfer oxygen in your blood from the lungs to the tissues.
IBS. A disorder that affects the large intestine, causing cramping, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation.
Intrauterine device. Also known as a coil. A birth control device that is inserted into a female’s uterus to prevent pregnancy.
In vitro fertilisation. A type of fertilisation that involves combining a female’s egg with a male’s sperm in the laboratory. The fertilised embryo is then returned to the female’s uterus.
An excess of bilirubin causes yellowish discolouration of the skin, mucous membranes and the whites of the eyes.
The process of producing and secreting breast milk.
A childbirth technique that teaches the mother how to manage her pain using relaxation, movement and massage. An alternative to medical intervention.
The fine, soft hair that covers a baby’s body whilst it is developing in the womb.
Keyhole surgery. A surgical procedure, whereby small incisions are made in the abdomen for visualisation of the internal organs.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as “bad cholesterol” because high levels of LDL lead to a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries.
Lead (Pb) is a soft, bluish-white metal. Exposure to even low levels of lead can cause damage to the human body, with high levels causing anemia and kidney or brain damage.
A white or yellow discharge of mucus from the vagina.
White blood cell. Part of the body’s immune system.
Luteinising Hormone. A gonadotrophic hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Works with FSH to regulate reproductive processes. An acute rise of LH triggers ovulation.
A brownish line of hyperpigmentation that appears during pregnancy and runs from the top of the pubic bone to the belly button; sometimes extending to the top of the abdomen.
An autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks normal healthy tissue, causing inflammation, swelling and pain.
Lymphocytes are another type of white blood cell that includes natural killer cells protecting one from viral infections.
Provide bulk energy. Includes proteins, fats and carbohydrates
A type of white blood cell, involved in the immune response. They engulf and destroy bacteria and other harmful organisms.
A baby that is born much heavier than the average for their gestational age.
A life-threatening disease that is caused by parasites that are transmitted to humans via the bites of infected mosquitoes.
Manganese (Mn) is a pinkish-grey, chemically active metal. Symptoms of manganese poisoning can include hallucinations, forgetfulness and nerve damage.
MCHC (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration) measures the average concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells.
MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) is the average amount of protein hemoglobin in your red blood cells.
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is a test that measures the average size of the red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes.
The first stool passed by your baby after birth. Contains a mixture of epithelial cells, lanugo, mucus, amniotic fluid, bile and water.
The time when a female stops having periods and is unable to get pregnant naturally.
Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
The discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterus during menstruation.
Mercury (Hg) is the only common metal that is liquid at room temperature. The inhalation of mercury vapour can produce harmful effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems.
Disorders that affect normal metabolism and increase your risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and obesity.
The chemical reactions that take place in the body to keep it alive and functioning.
The spread of cells from the initial (primary) site to a different (secondary) site. Usually refers to cancerous cells spreading via the blood or lymph system.
Also known as microorganisms. Microscopic organisms that exist in a single-celled form or within a colony of cells.
A term used to describe the genome of all the microorganisms, symbiotic and pathogenic, living in and on all vertebrates.
Microcytosis is a word used to describe small red blood cells than regular.
Required for disease prevention and growth. Includes vitamins and minerals
Also known as microbes. Microscopic organisms that exist in a single-celled form or within a colony of cells.
A severe headache that can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, numbness or tingling, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.
Molybdenum (Mo) is a silvery-white, hard metal. It is an essential mineral found in legumes, grains and organ meats, but can be toxic at high levels.
Monocytes are a type of white blood cell that helps in the immune system in the bone marrow, traveling through the blood to tissues as it becomes a macrophage.
The ability of an organism to move independently.
A thick clump of cervical mucus that blocks the cervix during pregnancy. Detachment of the plug can be a sign that labour is imminent.
Involving or dependent on a number of factors; genetic and/or environmental.
Inflammation of the heart muscle.
Relating to newborns.
A disease of the kidneys caused by damage to the small blood vessels that supply them. Diabetic patients are at particular risk.
A hollow structure from which the brain and spinal cord form. Defects during development can lead to congenital abnormalities, such as spina bifida.
Related to cognitive functioning and the associated structures and processes of the brain.
Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell, helps fight infection through microorganism’s ingestion and kills the microorganisms by releasing enzymes.
Nickel (Ni) is a silvery-white metal with a slight gold tinge. Contact with nickel can cause a variety of side-effects in humans including allergies and cardiovascular disease.
A disease that cannot be transmitted from one person to another. Examples include obesity, cardiovascular disease and cancer. The leading global cause of death.
(NIPT). DNA is taken from the baby’s placenta to check for genetic disorders.
A doctor who cares for a woman during her pregnancy and immediately after giving birth. Also trained to deliver babies.
One of the primary female sex hormones. Responsible for development and maintenance of the female reproductive system.
An immature egg cell (ovum) in the ovary.
Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, also known as an ovariectomy.
Low bone density causes bones to become weaker than normal.
A disease that causes the bones to become weak and brittle; increasing the risk of fracture.
A connective tissue, rich in blood vessels and cells, that binds structures of the ovary together.
A means of preserving ovarian function. The ovaries are repositioned outside of the pelvis prior to undergoing radiation.
Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, also known as an oophorectomy.
Part of the female reproductive system. The place where the ovum (eggs) form and oestrogen and progesterone are made.
The release of a mature egg from the ovary during the menstrual cycle.
The female reproductive cell; also known as an egg cell.
A doctor who specialises in the care of infants, children and adolescents.
Palladium (Pd) is a rare, silvery-white metal. It is regarded as of low toxicity, being poorly adsorbed by the body when ingested. It may cause skin, eye or respiratory tract irritation.
Describes an organism (pathogen) that is capable of causing disease.
The physical and biological changes that occur in response to a syndrome or a disease.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. A hormonal condition affecting women of reproductive age; can lead to difficulties conceiving.
A doctor will examine the internal and external reproductive organs to identify potential issues with the female reproductive system and urinary tract.
A sac of fibrous connective tissue that surrounds the heart and the roots of its major blood vessels.
The time before the menopause, when a female’s ovaries start to produce less oestrogen.
The period immediately before and after birth.
The lubricating liquid that surrounds the abdominal organs.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease. An infection of the upper part of the female reproductive system.
An uncomfortable prickly or tingling sensation usually felt in the arms, legs, hands or feet. Most often caused by nerve compression.
A structure connecting mother and baby during pregnancy. Provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby and removes waste products.
Low-lying placenta. The placenta partially, or completely, covers the mother’s cervix.
Platinum (Ag) is a dense, highly unreactive metal. Its effects on the human body depend on the bonds formed, the exposure level, and the immunity of the person exposed.
A two-layered membrane which lines the thoracic cavity, cushioning the lungs and preventing friction between the lungs and the rib cage.
PLT (Platelet Count) is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets are parts of the blood that helps the blood clot.
Postnatal depression. A type of depression that affects new parents after the birth of a baby. Starts any time in the first 12 months after giving birth.
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. A female’s ovaries stop working properly before she is 40 years old.
The feeling of extreme thirstiness.
Excessive accumulation of amniotic fluid.
Excessive hunger or increased appetite.
An abnormal growth of tissue that projects from a mucous membrane. Most commonly found in the colon, stomach, nose, ear, sinuses, bladder and uterus.
The frequent passage of large volumes of urine.
A material that can easily absorb fluids due to the presence of multiple small holes.
The period of time that follows the menopause.
Also known as the rectouterine pouch. The area between the rectum and the back wall of the uterus.
A pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Labour that starts before week 37 of pregnancy.
Emotional and physical symptoms that a female experiences in the week before she gets her period.
One of the primary female sex hormones. It is involved in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the body for pregnancy.
Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland. Its primary function is to induce rapid eye movement sleep, but it is most commonly known for its role in lactation.
A course of action or medicine used to prevent disease.
A group of compounds that have hormone-like effects and are involved in mediating the inflammatory response.
An enzyme that helps to break down proteins. Involved in many physiological responses, including inflammation.
Speeds up signals to the brain, causing excitation and elevated mood.
The time when an adolescent reaches sexual maturity and becomes capable of reproducing.
Inflammation of the kidney, usually due to bacterial infection. A type of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Also known as radiation therapy. Uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours.
RBC (Red Blood Cell Count) is a test that doctors use to know how many red blood cells one has, also known as an erythrocyte count.
Also known as the rectovaginal fascia. A thin layer of tissue that separates the vagina from the rectum.
A hormone secreted by the placenta that relaxes the ligaments in the pelvis in preparation for delivery.
A stage of sleep characterised by the eyes moving rapidly from side to side. This is the stage of sleep when vivid dreams are most likely to occur.
Reticulocytes are immature red blood cells. A reticulocyte count is a blood test that measures how fast reticulocytes are made by the bone marrow and released into the blood.
A nutrient important for vision, growth, cell division, reproduction and immunity. Also known as vitamin A
Menstrual blood flows back along the fallopian tubes, instead of out of the vagina.
Also known as haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN). Antibodies in the mother’s blood attack her unborn baby’s blood cells.
A sharp pain felt in the lower abdomen or groin area. Common during pregnancy.
Rubella (or “German measles”) is a contagious viral infection best known by its distinctive red rash. A rubella blood test detects antibodies that are made by the immune system to help kill the rubella virus. The presence of IgG antibodies may indicate a recent or past rubella infection, or indicate that a rubella vaccine (a measles, mumps, rubella vaccine) has been given and is providing adequate protection.
Inflammation of the fallopian tubes.
Pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Usually felt in the lower back or down the legs.
Coiled tubes in the testes. This is the site where germ cells develop into sperm cells (spermatogenesis).
Also known as sepsis or blood poisoning. Occurs when bacteria enters the blood stream and is caused by an extreme inflammatory response to infection.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced by the liver that binds to androgens (male hormones) and estrogens (female hormones) and transports them in the blood as biologically inactive forms.
Silver (Ag) is a soft, white metal. Exposure to soluble silver compounds may produce toxic effects in the human body, including liver and kidney damage.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms. The most common type of genetic variation. A DNA sequence variation that occurs at a single nucleotide in the genome.
The interaction of social class and population structure (demographics).
The interaction of social class and financial situation.
The male reproductive cell.
The production and development of mature sperm cells from germ cells.
Enlargement of the spleen.
Sexually-transmitted Diseases. Also known as sexually-transmitted infections. An infection that is spread from one person to another, usually during sexual intercourse.
The body’s ‘raw materials’. Cells that can develop into specialised cell types.
The birth of a baby that has died in the womb after week 24 of pregnancy.
Long, narrow stripes, also known as striae. Occur when the skin is stretched rapidly, such as during pregnancy. Will fade over time, but not disappear.
A biological interaction between organisms from two different species. A mutually beneficial relationship between two different groups.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual intercourse or other intimate activities. The disease starts as a painless sore — typically on your genitals, rectum or mouth – and spreads from person to person via skin or mucous membrane contact with these sores.
A heart rate of more than 100 beats per minute.
Feeling of incomplete defaecation. Continual or recurrent sensation of needing to empty the bowels.
A substance that disturbs the development of a growing foetus/embryo, causing physical or functional defects.
Teratogens are factors that have the capability to cause foetal malformations.
The primary male sex hormone. Involved in maintenance of the male reproductive system as well as promoting muscle growth and hair growth.
Tubal Factor Infertility. Infertility caused by disease, damage, scarring or obstruction blocking the fallopian tubes.
Thallium (Tl) is a grey metal that is not found “free” (unbonded) in the environment. Ingesting large amounts of thallium in a short time can cause vomiting, hair loss, and even death.
A butterfly-shaped hormone gland located at the base of the neck. Produces thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are important for metabolic health.
Total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) measures the total amount of iron that can be bound by proteins in the blood. It is used to see if you have too much or too little iron in your blood.
Tin (Sn) is a soft, silvery-white metal. Swallowing large amounts of inorganic tin can result in stomachaches, anemia, and liver and kidney problems.
Testosterone is the main male hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. “Total” testosterone includes “free” testosterone and any testosterone bound to proteins in the blood.
Toxoplasmosis is a disease that results from infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, one of the world’s most common parasites. Infection usually occurs by eating undercooked contaminated meat, exposure from infected cat feces, or mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy. The presence of IgG antibodies may indicate a recent or past infection.
Treponema pallidum hemagglutination (TPHA) is a test used to detect the dissolved amount of antibodies in serum (from a blood sample) against the causative agents of syphilis.
Fertility-preserving surgery that involves removing the cervix, upper vagina and tissue surrounding the cervix.
Endometrial tissue implants and grows elsewhere in the body.
A method of examining the female pelvic region using an optic scope inserted into the vagina.
Ultrasound transducer inserted into vagina to visualise organs in the pelvic cavity.
Triglycerides are a type of fat (or “lipid”) found in the body. Calories that are not required by the body are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells for later use.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is a hormone made in the pituitary gland and is responsible for hormone production by the thyroid gland.
A narrow tube-like structure that carries nutrients and oxygen from the mother to her developing baby.
A dense fibrous ring that surrounds the belly button (navel). It should close shortly after birth.
Uranium (U) is a silvery metal. No health effects, other than kidney damage, have been consistently found in humans after inhaling or ingesting small amounts of uranium compounds.
The muscular tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Relating to the urinary and genital organs
A support structure of connective tissue and muscle fibres that connects the uterus to the front of the sacrum.
Part of the female reproductive system. A muscular organ located in the pelvis; also known as the womb. The place where an unborn baby develops and grows.
Part of the female reproductive system. A muscular tube that connects the external female sex organ (the vulva) to the uterus.
The front and back recesses into which the superior part of the vagina is divided.
Enlarged veins in the scrotum.
Veins that are present just under the skin and have become swollen, enlarged and twisted.
Meaning “carrying away vessel” in Latin, these thick walled tubes transport sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts.
A waxy, cheese-like protective coating that covers your baby’s skin during the final trimester of pregnancy. May still be evident at birth.
Development of male characteristics (deep voice, body hair, increased muscle mass) in a female.
A nutrient important for vision, growth, cell division, reproduction and immunity. Also known as retinol
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient that plays a role in the production of DNA used by the body to make red blood cells. It is found in meat, fish and dairy products.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is a water-soluble vitamin and essential nutrient (i.e. your body does not make or store it) used by the body to metabolise fat, protein and carbohydrate.
Vitamin B9 (folate) is an essential nutrient required for red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function. It is sold as a supplement called folic acid.
Vitamin D is a hormone and essential nutrient that the body needs in small amounts to function and stay healthy. It helps to metabolise things like calcium and phosphorus.
A nutrient important for vision, reproduction, and the health of the blood, brain and skin. It also has antioxidant properties
The final stages of labour are spent in a birthing pool, with the baby usually being born in water.
WBC (White Blood Cell Count) is mainly a test to measure the number of white blood cells in your body, often included with a whole blood count.
A chemical substance found, but not produced in an organism.
Zinc (Zn) is a brittle metal and is considered an essential nutrient, meaning your body can’t make or store it. As well as supporting the immune system, it enables the body to make proteins and DNA, contributes to wound healing, and plays a role in childhood growth and development.
The joining together of sperm call and egg cell. The zygote becomes an embryo.