Glossary

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vagina

The passage joining the outer sexual organs with the uterus in females (see Female Anatomy).

vaginal bleeding

Any bloody vaginal discharge (pink, red, or brown) that requires the use of sanitary protection (pads, cloths, or tampons). Different vaginal bleeding patterns include:

- amenorrhea No bleeding at all at expected bleeding times.

- breakthrough bleeding Any bleeding outside of expected bleeding times (i.e., outside of regular monthly bleeding) that requires use of sanitary protection.

- heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) Bleeding that is twice as heavy as a woman’s usual bleeding.

- infrequent bleeding Fewer than 2 bleeding episodes over 3 months.

- irregular bleeding Spotting and/or breakthrough bleeding that occurs outside of expected bleeding times (i.e., outside of regular monthly bleeding).

- menstrual bleeding, monthly bleeding. Bleeding that takes place, on average, for 3–7 days about every 28 days.

- prolonged bleeding Bleeding that lasts longer than 8 days.

- spotting Any bloody vaginal discharge outside of expected bleeding times that requires no sanitary protection.

vaginal mucus

The fluid secreted by glands in the vagina.

vaginitis

Inflammation of the vagina. May be due to infection by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, or to chemical irritation. Not a sexually transmitted infection.

valvular heart disease

Health problems due to improperly functioning heart valves.

varicose veins

Enlarged, twisted veins, most commonly seen in veins just beneath the skin of the legs.

vas deferens (vas, vasa)

2 muscular tubes that transport sperm from the testes to the seminal vesicles. These tubes are cut or blocked during a vasectomy (see Male Anatomy).

vascular disease

Any disease of the blood vessels.

vulva

The exterior female genitals.