Chapter 24

Gynecological Emergencies

Bacterial Vaginosis

An overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina; characterized by itching, burning, or pain, and possibly a “fishy” smelling discharge

cervix

The lower third, or neck of the uterus

Chlamydia

A sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis

fallopian tubes

The tubes that connect each ovary with the uterus and are the primary location for fertilization of the ovum

Gonorrhea

A sexually transmitted disease caused by Neisseria Gonorrhoeae

Labia Majora

Outer fleshly “lips” covered with cubic hair that protect the vagina

Labia Minora

Inner fleshly “lips” devoid of pubic hair that protect the vagina

Ovaries

The primary female reproductive organs that produce an ovum, or egg, that, if fertilized, will develop into a fetus

ovulation

The process in which an ovum is released from a follicle

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease PID

An infection of the fallopian tubes and the surrounding tissues of the pelvis

Perineum

The area of skin between the vagina and the anus

Rape

Sexual intercourse forcibly inflicted on another person, against that person’s will

Sexual assault

An attack against a person that is sexual in nature, the most common of which is rape

Uterus

The muscular organ where the fetus grows, also called the womb; responsible for interactions during labor

Vagina

The outermost cavity of a woman’s reproductive tract; the lower part of the birth canal