P
Pap Smear
A tissue sample taken during an internal vaginal exam to test for precancerous cell changes and cervical cancer.
Perimenopause
The period of transition to natural menopause during which the body undergoes endocrinologic and biologic changes resulting from declining ovarian hormone production; symptoms can include irregular menstrual periods, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, insomnia, and mood swings. Perimenopause can last over six years (four years is average) and usually ends after twelve months of amenorrhea.
Phytohormones
Substances found in some herbs and other plants that may help to regulate plant growth. Some types, referred to as phytoestrogens, can bind to the human body’s estrogen receptors and may act like an estrogen or an anti-estrogen on the body, depending upon their particular type and dosage.
PMDD
See premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
PMS
See premenstrual syndrome.
Polyp, Uterine
Small, tag-shaped growths of uterine tissue, attached to the lining of the uterus. Polyps can cause irregular bleeding; doctors remove them to confirm there is no precancerous change.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
A debilitating type of premenstrual syndrome that can include symptoms such as severe depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and fatigue in addition to a wide range of physical disturbances. Though premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and PMDD differ in severity, diagnosis, and treatment, both seem to be linked to the way the body processes and responds to reproductive hormones and possibly serotonin.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
A condition occurring ten to fourteen days before the onset of menstrual bleeding and involving physical and emotional symptoms that include bloating, water retention, pelvic pressure or cramping, headaches or migraines, irritability, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and food cravings.
Progesterone
A female sex hormone, produced in largest amounts during and after ovulation that prepares the uterus for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Progestin
A chemical name for various types of synthetic progesterone. Progestin is used in MHT to balance the effects of estrogen on the endometrium and prevent endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.
S
Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
A class of drugs used to help prevent bone loss. Raloxifene is one example of a SERM. These drugs may behave as an estrogen or as an anti-estrogen at the cellular level, and do not present as high a risk of estrogen dependent breast cancer.
SERM
See selective estrogen receptor modulators.
Statins
Cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Stress Urinary Incontinence
The unpredictable and involuntary loss of urine caused by weakened sphincter muscles (the muscles that surround the urethra) and often triggered by an event such as a sneeze or cough.
T
Temporary Menopause
An interruption of the ovarian function that prevents the production of hormones that accompany the maturation and release of oocytes (eggs). Temporary menopause can follow chemical or radiation therapies or result from excessive exercise, weight loss, or inadequate nutrition. See also induced menopause. When the contributing condition stops, ovulation and menstruation begin again.
Triglycerides
A type of fat found in the blood; other types of this fat include butter, margarine, and vegetable oil. Triglyceride levels are checked in total fasting lipid-profiles (blood tests, sometimes called coronary panels, that check levels of HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides).
U
Urethra
The external opening in the bladder through which the body releases urine.
Urge Incontinence
Involuntary bladder spasms that can be triggered by the sight, sound, or even thought of water or urination; the sudden reflex need to urinate causes the spasm and an accompanying release of urine.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
A bladder infection due to bacteria that typically have entered the bladder through the urethra during the process of intercourse, improper wiping techniques, poor hygiene, or other reasons.
UTI.
See urinary tract infections.
V
Vaginal Atrophy
A condition characterized by the drying and shrinking of the vaginal lining. As the body’s estrogen production diminishes with menopause, the vagina produces fewer secretions, so the vaginal wall becomes less lubricated and flexible and more prone to tears and cracks.
Vaginitis
Any inflammation of the vagina, usually referring to an infection due to bacteria, yeast, or other pathogens that results in discomfort, itching, and/or abnormal discharge.
Vasomotor Symptoms
Hot flashes or night sweats that result from sudden opening of the blood vessels close to the skin, usually due to hormonal fluctuations in menopause and perimenopause.
Source:
Kalb, KB, The Everything Health Guide to Menopause, Adams Media, July. 2007.
