Glossary

Biopsy - the removal of cells or tissues which are then sent to the laboratory for microscopic examination.

Colporrhaphy - the suturing of a vaginal tear.

Colposcopy - A low-powered microscope with a built-in light source for examinations of the vagina and cervix under magnification.

Cystocele - a prolapse of the urinary bladder wall into the vagina due to weakening of the supporting pelvic muscles.

Cystoscope - A fine telescope fitted with a light for visual examination of the bladder

Dysmenorrhea - painful menstrual periods.

Dyspareunia - painful intercourse.

Endometriosis - abnormal growths of tissue in locations other than the inner surface of the uterus which may or may not cause symptoms of intense pain and infertility.

Fibroids - a mass resembling fibrous tissue.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Hormones (oestrogen, progesterone, or both) given to women after the menopause. They are used to ease symptoms of the menopause.

Hysterectomy - the removal of the uterus. Abdominal hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus through an incision in the abdominal wall. Vaginal hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus through the vagina.

Hysteroscope - An endoscope for direct viewing of the interior of the uterus; consists of a rigid rod equipped with a fibreoptic light source, a channel to introduce a medium to distend the uterus, and a channel through which instruments (e.g. probes, forceps, electrocautery or laser) may be visually manipulated in the uterine cavity.

Laparoscope - Keyhole surgery. A small telescope with a light source at the tip which lights up the inside of the abdomen or pelvic. Fibreoptic fibres carry image from a lens to a video monitor. The use of a laparoscope enables the surgeon to view the pelvis or abdominal cavity from several angles.

Menopause - the permanent cessation of menstruation.

Menorrhagia - excessive or prolonged menstrual periods.

Oophorectomy - the removal of the ovary

Ovarian cyst - an abnormal cavity within the ovary containing fluid, usually noncancerous.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCO) - a disorder affecting young women characterized by enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts, failure to release ova with absent or scanty menstruation and infertility.

Rectocele - a protrusion of the rectum into the posterior vaginal wall due to weakening of the wall, usually occurs during childbirth.

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