Reproductive Systems Practice Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering hormonal and physical alterations, syndromes, infections, and cancers of the reproductive systems as discussed in the NSG 811 Summer 2025 lecture.

Primary Dysmenorrhea

Painful menstruation not associated with pelvic disease, often resulting from excessive synthesis of prostaglandins (or sensitivity to prostaglandins), which cause the myometrium to contract and constrict blood vessels, resulting in ischemic pain.

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)

The cyclic recurrence of physical, psychologic, or behavioral changes distressing enough to disrupt normal activities or interpersonal relationships, with approximately $300$ emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms attributed to it.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

A syndrome in which at least two of the following are present: irregular ovulation or anovulation; elevated levels of androgens, or clinical signs of hyperandrogenism; and polycystic ovaries.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

An acute ascending polymicrobial infection of the upper genital tract, often caused by sexually transmitted pathogens that are allowed to ascend because of disruptions in the normal vaginal flora.

High-risk HPV

A sexually transmitted infection that is a necessary precursor to developing CIN and cervical cancer; smoking, immunosuppression, and poor nutrition are cofactors.

Adenocarcinomas

The type of cancer most breast cancers are classified as, which first arise from the ductal/lobular epithelium as carcinoma in situ.

Carcinoma in situ

An early stage, noninvasive proliferation of epithelial cells confined to the ducts and lobules by the basement membrane.

Testicular Cancer

The most common malignancy in males $15$ to $35$ years of age, where most neoplasms are germ cell tumors.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Enlargement of the prostate gland that becomes symptomatic as the enlarging prostate compresses the urethra, causing symptoms of bladder outlet syndrome and urine retention.

Prostate Cancer

The most common cancer in American men, with incidence greatest among Northwestern European and North American men (particularly Blacks) older than $65$ years of age.

Vertical Gonorrhea Transmission

Transmission from mother to fetus that typically manifests as an eye infection $1$ to $12$ days after birth.

Chlamydia

The most common bacterial STI in the United States and a leading preventable cause of infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

C. trachomatis

The causative organism of Chlamydia that localizes to epithelial tissue and can spread throughout the urogenital tract or pass to newborn infants during birth.

Azithromycin

The drug of choice, administered as a single-dose, for individuals infected with Chlamydia and all of their sexual contacts.