Glossary

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A B C D E F G H I J L M N O P R S T U V W Y

candidiasis

A common vaginal infection caused by a yeast-like fungus. Also known as yeast infection or thrush. Not usually sexually transmitted.

cardiovascular disease

Any disease of the heart, blood vessels, or blood circulation.

cerebrovascular disease

Any disease of the blood vessels of the brain.

cervical cancer

Malignant (cancerous) growth that occurs in the cervix, usually due to persistent infection with certain types of human papillomavirus.

cervical ectropion

A nonserious condition in which the mucus-producing cells found in the cervical canal begin to grow on the area around the opening of the cervix.

cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)

Abnormal, precancerous cells in the cervix. Mild forms may go away on their own, but more severe abnormalities may progress to cervical cancer if not treated. Also called cervical dysplasia or precancer.

cervical laceration

cervical mucus

A thick fluid plugging the opening of the cervix. Most of the time it is thick enough to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. At the midpoint of the menstrual cycle, however, the mucus becomes thin and watery, and sperm can more easily pass through.

cervical stenosis

When the cervical opening is narrower than normal.

cervicitis

cervix

The lower portion of the uterus extending into the upper vagina (see Female Anatomy).

chancroid

A sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium, which causes an ulcer to grow on the genitals.

chlamydia

A sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium. If left untreated, it can cause infertility.

cholecystectomy

Surgical removal of the gallbladder.

cholestasis

Reduced flow of bile secreted by the liver.

cirrhosis (of the liver)

cryptorchidism

Failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum after birth.