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Breast Scan (Breast Scintigraphy, Scintimammography, Radionuclide Breast Imaging, Molecular Breast Imaging) Procedure Overview What is a breast scan? A breast scan is a specialized radiology procedure used to assess the breasts when other examinations have been inconclusive. Click Image to Enlarge A breast scan is a type of nuclear radiology procedure. This means that a tiny amount of a radioactive substance is used during the procedure to assist in the examination of the breasts. The radioactive substa...

Breast Ultrasound (Breast Ultrasonography, Breast Sonogram, Mammographic Ultrasound, Sonomammography, Ultrasound Mammography) Procedure Overview What is breast ultrasound? Breast ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the breasts. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the breast tissue. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to areas inside the breasts. The examination is often used along with mammography. Click Image to Enlarge Breast ultr...

Cervical Biopsy (Biopsy-Cervix, Cervical Punch Biopsy, Cone Biopsy, Conization) Procedure Overview What is a cervical biopsy? A cervical biopsy is a procedure performed to remove tissue from the cervix to test for abnormal or precancerous conditions, or cervical cancer. The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum. It forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of the body. Types of cervical biopsies: There are several type...

Colposcopy Procedure Overview What is colposcopy? Colposcopy is a procedure that uses an instrument with a magnifying lens and a light, called a colposcope, to examine the cervix (opening to the uterus) and vagina for abnormalities. The colposcope magnifies the image many times, thus allowing the physician to see the tissues on the cervix and vaginal walls more clearly. In some cases, a cervical biopsy, a small sample of tissue, may be taken for further examination in the lab. Click Image to Enlarge Wha...

Dilation and Curettage (D and C) (Dilatation and Curettage, D&C) Procedure Overview What is a dilation and curettage (D&C)? A dilation and curettage procedure, also called a D&C, is a surgical procedure in which the cervix (lower, narrow part of the uterus) is dilated (expanded) so that the cervical canal and uterine lining (endometrium) can be scraped with a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) to remove abnormal tissues in the uterus. A suction D&C uses suction to remove uterine contents....

Endometrial Ablation Procedure Overview What is an endometrial ablation? Endometrial ablation is a procedure to permanently remove a thin tissue layer of the lining of the uterus to stop or reduce excessive or abnormal bleeding in women for whom childbearing is complete. The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. In some cases, endometrial ablation may be an alternative to hysterectomy. There are several techniques used to perform endometrial ablation including the following: electrical or elec...

Endometrial Biopsy (Biopsy-Endometrium) Procedure Overview What is an endometrial biopsy? An endometrial biopsy is a procedure performed to obtain a small tissue sample from the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. After the biopsy, the endometrial tissue is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of abnormal cells, or the effects of hormones on the endometrium. Other related procedures used to evaluate and treat endometrial problems include dilation and curettage (D & C), hyst...

Hysterectomy Procedure (Removal of the Uterus) Procedure Overview What is a hysterectomy? Click Image to Enlarge Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. Different portions of the uterus, as well as other organs, may be removed at the same time. The types of hysterectomy include: total hysterectomy Includes the removal of the entire uterus, including the fundus (the part of the uterus above the openings of the fallopian tubes) and the cervix, but not the tubes or ovaries. This is the most com...

Hysteroscopy Procedure Overview What is a hysteroscopy? Hysteroscopy is the visual examination of the canal of the cervix and interior of the uterus using a thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope. The device is inserted through the vagina. Hysteroscopy may be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The hysteroscope allows for easy visual access to the interior of the cervix and uterus to assess the lining of these structures. Therapeutic maneuvers, such as taking a tissue sample (...

Laparoscopy (Peritoneoscopy, Gynecologic Laparoscopy, Pelviscopy, Exploratory Laparoscopy) Procedure Overview Laparoscopy is a procedure used to examine the organs of the abdominal cavity. Laparoscopy utilizes a laparoscope, a thin flexible tube containing a video camera. The laparoscope is placed through a small incision in the abdomen and produces images that can be seen on a computer screen. A similar procedure can be used to look at the organs of the pelvis (gynecologic laparoscopy or pelviscopy). T...

Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone [LLETZ], Large Loop Excision of the Cervix [LLEC], Loop Cone Biopsy of the Cervix) Procedure Overview What is a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)? Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) uses a wire loop heated by electric current to remove cells and tissue as part of the diagnosis and treatment for abnormal or cancerous conditions in a woman’s lower genital tract. The lower genital tract i...

Lumpectomy (Breast Conservation Therapy, BCT, Quadrantectomy) Procedure Overview Click Image to Enlarge A lumpectomy is a type of breast-conserving surgery that may be used as a part of a treatment plan for breast cancer. During a lumpectomy, the cancerous lump and a portion of the breast tissue around the cancerous lump are removed. However, the breast itself remains intact. The surgeon may also remove some of the lymph nodes under the arm to determine if the cancer has spread. Lymph nodes are bean-sha...

Mammogram Procedure (Mammography, Breast X-ray) Procedure Overview What is a mammogram? A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breast. It is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women who either have breast problems such as a lump, pain, or nipple discharge, as well as for women who have no breast complaints. The procedure allows detection of breast cancers, benign tumors, and cysts before they can be detected by palpation (touch). Mammography cannot prove that an abnormal area is cancer, b...

Mastectomy Procedure Overview What is a mastectomy? A mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or a portion of a breast is removed as a part of a treatment plan for breast cancer. In some cases, mastectomy is performed prophylactically (to prevent cancer from occurring) in women with a high risk for developing breast cancer. Surgical treatment for breast cancer is generally divided into two categories: breast-conserving therapy (BCT) or mastectomy. BCT involves removing the least possible amount ...

PAP Test Procedure (Pap Smear, Pap Screening, Papanicolaou Test) Procedure Overview What is a Pap test? A Pap test, named after Dr. George Papanicolaou who designed the test, is a screening test to collect and microscopically examine cells taken from the cervix, the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum. The cervix forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of the body. With a Pap test, cells can be collected from the vagina as well ...

Pelvic Ultrasound (Ultrasound-Pelvis, Pelvic Ultrasonography, Pelvic Sonography, Pelvic Scan, Lower Abdomen Ultrasound, Gynecologic Ultrasound, Transabdominal Ultrasound, Transvaginal Ultrasound, Endovaginal Ultrasound) Procedure Overview What is a pelvic ultrasound? A pelvic ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess organs and structures within the female pelvis. A pelvic ultrasound allows quick visualization of the female pelvic organs and structures including the ...

Uterine Artery Embolization Procedure Overview What is uterine artery embolization? Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a procedure that offers an alternative to traditional surgical removal of uterine fibroids. The procedure may also be referred to as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). Uterine artery embolization shrinks fibroids by blocking off their blood supply. The blood supply is blocked by injecting very small particles into the arteries that supply the fibroids. The particles stick to the vess...

Breast Biopsy (Biopsy-Breast) Procedure Overview What is a breast biopsy? A biopsy is a procedure performed to remove tissue or cells from the body for examination under a microscope. A breast biopsy is a procedure in which samples of breast tissue are removed with a special biopsy needle or during surgery to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present. Biopsies may be performed under local or general anesthesia. There are several types of breast biopsy procedures. The type of biopsy perform...

Cystography (Cystourethrography, Voiding Cystography, Voiding Cystourethrography, VCUG) Procedure Overview What is cystography? Cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. Still x-ray pictures or fluoroscopy (a study of moving body structures - similar to an x-ray "movie") may be used. During cystography, contrast dye is injected into the bladder. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be see...

Cystometry (Cystometrogram, CMG) Procedure Overview What is cystometry? Cystometry is a diagnostic procedure used to identify problems with the filling and emptying of the urinary bladder. This test measures the amount of volume/urine in the bladder compared with the bladder pressure and the person's perception of bladder fullness. Cystometry provides information about the muscle function, mechanics, and nerve response of the bladder and urinary tract. A normally functioning bladder sends messages to th...

Cystoscopy for Women (Cystourethroscopy) Procedure Overview What is cystoscopy? Cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the physician to directly examine the urinary tract, particularly the bladder, the urethra, and the openings to the ureters. Cystoscopy can assist in identifying problems with the urinary tract, such as early signs of cancer, infection, strictures (narrowing), obstruction, and bleeding. A long, flexible, lighted tube, called a cystoscope, is inserted into the urethra (the tube...

Retrograde Cystography (Cystography - Retrograde) Procedure Overview What is retrograde cystography? Retrograde cystography is a diagnostic procedure that uses x-rays to examine the urinary bladder. X-rays are made of the bladder after it has been filled with a contrast dye. Contrast refers to a substance taken into the body that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. This examination allows the physician to assess the bladder's structure and integrity. During retrogr...

Abdominal Ultrasound (Abdominal Ultrasonography, Abdominal Sonography, Abdominal Echography) Procedure Overview An abdominal ultrasound is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the organs and structures within the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, bile ducts, spleen, and abdominal aorta. Ultrasound technology allows quick visualization of the abdominal organs and structures from outside the body. Ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow to abdominal or...

Abdominal X-rays (Flat Plate of the Abdomen, Abdominal Radiography, KUB [Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder] X-ray) Procedure Overview X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film. Standard x-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body tissu...

Amenorrhea in Teens What is amenorrhea? Amenorrhea is a menstrual condition characterized by absent menstrual periods for more than three monthly menstrual cycles. Amenorrhea may be classified as primary or secondary. primary amenorrhea - from the beginning and usually lifelong; menstruation never begins at puberty. secondary amenorrhea - due to some physical cause and usually of later onset; a condition in which menstrual periods which were at one time normal and regular become increasing abnormal and ...

Anatomy of the Female Pelvic Area Click Image to Enlarge endometrium - the lining of the uterus. uterus - also called the womb, the uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ located in a woman's lower abdomen, between the bladder and the rectum. ovaries - two female reproductive organs located in the pelvis. fallopian tubes - carry the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. cervix - the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum. The cervix forms a canal that opens into...

Breast Conditions Potential breast conditions in young women: A young woman may experience a number of changes in her breasts during puberty and adolescence as she becomes an adult. Some breast changes or conditions are related to her menstrual cycle, while others may occur at any time. While most breast conditions are benign (non-cancerous), it is important for young women to be aware of proper breast health, so that they may detect any problems. Some of the breast conditions young women may experience...

Breast Self-Examination What is a breast self-examination (BSE)? Breast self-examination is a procedure performed by an individual to physically and visually examine herself for any changes in the breasts and underarm areas of the body. It has not been shown that BSE alone can accurately determine the presence of breast cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has found evidence that suggests BSEs do not lower the risk for death from breast cancer. Therefore, if you choose to do BSE, it should no...

Dysmenorrhea in Adolescents What is dysmenorrhea? Dysmenorrhea is a menstrual condition characterized by severe and frequent menstrual cramps and pain associated with menstruation. Dysmenorrhea may be classified as primary or secondary. primary dysmenorrhea - from the beginning and usually lifelong; severe and frequent menstrual cramping caused by severe and abnormal uterine contractions. secondary dysmenorrhea - due to some physical cause and usually of later onset; painful menstrual periods caused by ...

Female Physical Development As a female matures from a young girl into a woman, there are many important things to consider regarding her health and development. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Anatomy of the Breasts Normal Breast Development Anatomy of the Female Pelvic Area Menstrual Cycle: An Overview Puberty: Adolescent Female

Gynecological and Menstrual Conditions Adolescence is a time of many changes. As girls grow into young women and become physically and sexually mature, they need additional care from physicians (adolescent medicine physicians and/or obstetricians/gynecologists) trained to address these issues. This initial visit and yearly visits thereafter are geared towards promoting good health, screening for problems in adolescent girls, and helping open the lines of communication about healthcare between the physic...

Menstrual Disorders There are many menstrual conditions that affect adolescent females and require the clinical care of a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Amenorrhea Dysmenorrhea Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Normal Breast Development What is normal breast development? Breast development is a vital part of puberty in the human female. Unlike other mammals, however, human females are the only ones who develop full breasts long before they are needed to nurse their offspring. Breast development occurs in distinct stages, first before birth, and again at puberty and during the childbearing years. Changes also occur to the breasts during menstruation and when a woman reaches menopause. When does breast developme...

Pap Test for Adolescents What is a Pap test? A Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear) is a way to examine cells collected from the cervix, or the "mouth" of the womb (located at the top of the vagina), for the presence of: infection inflammation abnormal cells cancer Why is a Pap test suggested for females? A Pap test, along with a pelvic examination, is an important part of a female's routine health care because it may detect abnormalities that can lead to invasive cancer. Most invasive cancers of the...

Recognizing Urologic or Gynecologic Problems Signs and symptoms that may require medical attention: There are many different gynecological problems that could occur during adolescence. Mothers should be sure to talk with their daughters about all of the normal changes that will be occurring in the body during this time of physical maturation and development, so that any abnormal changes can be examined right away. Be sure to discuss the following: Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of your...

Contraception / Birth Control What is birth control? Birth control refers to any activity, medication, or equipment used to prevent pregnancy. There are many types of birth control available for women who do not wish to become pregnant. The decision on which method is right for you should be made with your physician, as well as with your partner. Birth control methods work in different ways to prevent pregnancy, including the following: creating a barrier that blocks sperm from reaching the egg killing ...

Cystocele (Fallen Bladder) What is a cystocele? Cystocele is the name for a hernia-like disorder in women that occurs when the wall between the bladder and the vagina weakens, causing the bladder to drop or sag into the vagina. What are the results of a cystocele? In addition to discomfort, the resulting dropped bladder can cause two kinds of problems to occur, including the following: urine leakage incomplete emptying of the bladder The dropped bladder stretches the opening into the urethra, and urine ...

Gynecologic Inflammations and Infections There are many different gynecological inflammations and infections that require the clinical care of a physician or another healthcare professional. It is very important for a woman to seek medical care to determine the type of infection present and the appropriate treatment. Gynecological inflammations and infections can originate in either the lower or upper reproductive tract. Common infections include: Lower reproductive tract vulvitis vaginitis Upper reprod...

Gynecological Anatomy Click Image to Enlarge endometrium - the lining of the uterus. uterus - also called the womb, the uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped organ located in a woman's lower abdomen, between the bladder and the rectum. ovaries - two female reproductive organs located in the pelvis. cervix - the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb) located between the bladder and the rectum. It forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of the body. vagina - the passageway through ...

Gynecological Concerns There are many gynecological conditions that require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Gynecological Anatomy The Menstrual Cycle Recognize Gynecological Symptoms Sexually Transmitted Diseases Pap Test Endometriosis Pelvic Pain Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Menstrual Conditions Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Amenorrhea Dysmenorrhea Meno...

Introduction to Menopause What is menopause? When a woman permanently stops having menstrual periods, she has reached the stage of life called menopause. Often called the "change of life," this stage signals the end of a woman's ability to have children. Many physicians actually use the term menopause to refer to the period of time when a woman's hormone levels begin to change. Menopause is said to be complete when menstrual periods have ceased for one continuous year. The transition phase before menopa...

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) What is pelvic inflammatory disease? Click Image to Enlarge Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is caused by a type of bacteria, often the same type that is responsible for several sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. In some cases, PID develops from bacteria that has traveled through the vagina and the cervix by way of an intrauterine device (IUD). PID can affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or the ovaries. It can lead to pelvic adhesions a...

Pelvic Pain What is pelvic pain? Pelvic pain is a common complaint among women. Its nature and intensity may fluctuate, and its cause is often obscure. In some cases, no disease is evident. Pelvic pain can be categorized as either acute , meaning the pain is sudden and severe, or chronic (pain that either comes and goes or is constant) , lasting over a period of months or longer. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pelvic pain lasting longer than 6 months and showing no...

Perimenopause What is perimenopause? Perimenopause refers to the transitional period of time before menstruation actually stops, which is marked by changes in the menstrual cycle, along with other physical and emotional symptoms. Perimenopause can last 2 to 10 years and during this time the following processes are occurring within a woman's body: ovaries release eggs less regularly ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and other hormones fertility decreases menstrual cycles shorten, there are fewer ov...

Recognizing Gynecological Symptoms Gynecological signs and symptoms that may require medical attention: Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of your menstrual cycle prior to menopause. However, if you notice anything different or unusual, consult your physician before attempting to treat the problem yourself. Symptoms may result from mild infections that are easy to treat. But, if they are not treated properly, they can lead to more serious conditions, including infertility or kidney damage....

Clinical Trials What are clinical trials? Clinical trials are studies, managed by government agencies, educational institutions, private not-for-profit organizations, or commercial businesses, to develop, produce, and evaluate the effectiveness of new treatments and therapies for diseases. What are some types of clinical trials? According to the National Cancer Institute, there are different types of cancer clinical trials, including: prevention trials designed to keep cancer from developing in people w...

Endometriosis Statistics related to endometriosis: Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition, particularly among women of childbearing age, affecting an estimated 2 to 10 percent of American women in this age group. Endometriosis can be a debilitating disease for some women who experience ongoing pain, while others may be asymptomatic. It is also a factor in infertility. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, endometriosis can be found in 24 percent to 50 percent of women w...

Gynecological Inflammations and Infections There are many different gynecological inflammations and infections that require the clinical care of a physician or another healthcare professional. It is very important for a woman to seek medical care to determine the type of infection present and the appropriate treatment. Gynecological inflammations and infections can originate in either the lower or upper reproductive tract. Common infections include: Lower reproductive tract vulvitis vaginitis Upper repr...

Topic Index Anatomy of the Female Pelvic Area Statistics: Gynecological Health at a Glance Menstrual Conditions Menopause Gynecologic Conditions Gynecologic Inflammations and Infections Hysterectomy General Information About Cancer Gynecological Cancers Glossary From before puberty to after menopause, a woman's body is constantly changing and developing. And, at each stage of development and maturation, there may be questions about gynecological, reproductive, and sexual health. Thus, it is important th...

Immunotherapy / Biological Therapy What is biological therapy? Biological therapy (also called immunotherapy, biological response modifier therapy, or biotherapy) uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. The cells, antibodies, and organs of the immune system work to protect and defend the body against foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. Physicians and researchers have found that the immune system might also be able to both determine the difference between healthy cells and cancer cells ...

Menopause There are many different considerations a woman needs to take as she approaches menopause. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Introduction to Menopause Perimenopause Hormone Replacement Therapy Estrogen's Effects on the Female Body Staying Healthy After Menopause

Menorrhagia What is menorrhagia? Menorrhagia is the most common type of abnormal uterine bleeding characterized by heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding. In some cases, bleeding may be so severe and relentless that daily activities become interrupted. Other types of abnormal uterine bleeding (also called dysfunctional uterine bleeding) include: polymenorrhea too frequent menstruation oligomenorrhea infrequent or light menstrual cycles metrorrhagia any irregular, acyclic non-menstrual bleeding from the ...

Menstrual Conditions There are many different menstrual conditions that require the care of a physician. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. The Menstrual Cycle: An Overview Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Amenorrhea Dysmenorrhea Menorrhagia

Online Resources - Gynecological Health This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contains links to othe...

Pap Test What is a Pap test? Click Image to Enlarge A Pap test (sometimes called a Pap smear) is a way to examine cells collected from the cervix, or the "mouth" of the womb (located at the top of the vagina), for the presence of: infection inflammation abnormal cells cancer Why is a Pap test suggested to women? A Pap test, along with a pelvic exam, is an important part of a woman's routine health care because it may detect abnormalities that can lead to invasive cancer. Most invasive cancers of the cer...

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)? A much more severe form of the collective symptoms known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) affects approximately 3 percent to 8 percent of women of reproductive age and is considered a severe and chronic medical condition that requires attention and treatment. What causes PMDD? Although the exact cause of PMDD is not known, several theories have been proposed. One theory states tha...

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) What is premenstrual syndrome? Most women experience some unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. For some women, the symptoms are significant, but of short duration and not disabling. Other women, however, may have one or more of a broad range of symptoms that temporarily disturb normal functioning. These symptoms may last from a few hours to many days. The types and intensity of symptoms vary in individuals. This group of symptoms is referred to a...

Recognizing Gynecologic Problems Gynecological signs and symptoms that may require medical attention: Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of your menstrual cycle prior to menopause. However, if you notice anything different or unusual, consult your physician before attempting to treat the problem yourself. Symptoms may result from mild infections that are easy to treat. But, if they are not treated properly, they can lead to more serious conditions, including infertility or kidney damage. V...

Safer Sex Guidelines What is "safe" sex? Sex in a monogamous relationship where neither party is infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is believed to be "safe." However, many healthcare professionals believe there really is no such thing as "safe" sex. They believe the only way to be truly safe is to abstain - because all forms of sexual contact carry some risk. For example, kissing is thought to be a safe activity, but herpes, and other diseases can be contracted this way. Condoms are comm...

Statistics: Gynecological Health at a Glance Gynecological conditions and infections: Virtually every woman is affected by a gynecological condition or infection at some time during her life. Consider the following: Aside from AIDS, the most common and serious complication of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among women is pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). In the United States, more than one million women experience an episode of acute PID each year, with teenagers having the highest rate of infect...