Glossary

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backup method

A contraceptive method used when mistakes are made with using an ongoing method of contraception, or to help ensure that a woman does not become pregnant when she first starts to use a contraceptive method. Include abstinence, male or female condoms, spermicides, and withdrawal.

bacterial endocarditis

Infection that occurs when bacteria from the bloodstream colonize damaged heart tissue or valves.

bacterial vaginosis

A common condition caused by overgrowth of bacteria normally found in the vagina.

balanitis

Inflammation of the tip of the penis.

benign breast disease

Growth of abnormal but noncancerous breast tissue.

benign ovarian tumor

Noncancerous growth that develops on or in the ovary.

blood pressure

The force of the blood against the walls of blood vessels. Generally, normal systolic (pumping) blood pressure is less than 140 mm Hg, and normal diastolic (resting) blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg (see hypertension).

bone density

A measure of how dense and strong a bone is. When old bone breaks down faster than new bone tissue is formed, bones become less dense, increasing risk of fractures.

breakthrough bleeding

breast cancer

Malignant (cancerous) growth that develops in breast tissue.

breastfeeding

Feeding an infant with milk produced by the breasts (see also Lactational Amenorrhea Method). Breastfeeding patterns include:

- exclusive breastfeeding Giving the infant only breast milk with no supplementation of any type—not even water— except for perhaps vitamins, minerals, or medication.
- fully breastfeeding Giving the infant breast milk almost exclusively but also water, juice, vitamins, or other nutrients infrequently.
- nearly fully breastfeeding Giving the infant some liquid or food in addition to breast milk, but more than three-fourths of feedings are breastfeeds.
- partially breastfeeding Any breastfeeding less than nearly fully breastfeeding, giving the infant more supplementation with other liquids or food. Less than three-fourths of feedings are breastfeeds.