Oral Contraceptives Health Article

KEY TERMS

Cyst—An abnormal sac or enclosed cavity in the body, filled with liquid or partially solid material.

Endometriosis—A condition in which tissue like that normally found in the lining of the uterus is present outside the uterus. The condition often causes pain and bleeding.

Fallopian tube—One of a pair of slender tubes that extend from each ovary to the uterus. Eggs pass through the fallopian tubes to reach the uterus.

Fetus—A developing baby inside the womb.

Fibroid tumor—A noncancerous tumor formed of fibrous tissue.

Hormone—A substance that is produced in one part of the body, then travels through the bloodstream to another part of the body where it has its effect.

Jaundice—Yellowing of the eyes and skin due to the build up of a bile pigment (bilirubin) in the blood.

Migraine—A throbbing headache that usually affects only one side of the head. Nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light, and other symptoms often accompany migraine.

Mucus—Thick fluid produced by the moist membranes that line many body cavities and structures.

Ovary—A reproductive organ in females that produces eggs and hormones.

Pelvic inflammatory disease—Inflammation of the female reproductive tract, caused by any of several microorganisms. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, high fever, and vaginal discharge. Severe cases can result in sterility. Also called PID.

Uterus—A hollow organ in a female in which a fetus develops until birth.