Medical dictionary

What is pelvic pain syndrome? Pelvic pain syndrome, which may also be referred to as chronic pelvic pain, is a condition in which women have pain in their lower abdomen, often experienced during their menstrual cycle, but not exclusively. Pelvic pain syndrome is considered chronic if it lasts for more than six months, and must be assessed by a specialist gynaecologist or urologist as it can hav

What is pelvic radiation disease? Pelvic radiation disease (PRD) is a set of symptoms that can affect patients who have undergone radiotherapy treatment for abdominal or pelvic cancers. This may include:  ​ cervical cancer; uterine cancer;  bowel cancer, and; prostate cancer. Having such treatment on this part of the body can treat the cancer present, however,

What is a pelvic ultrasound?   A pelvic ultrasound is a medical imaging test used to examine organs in the pelvic area. In women, this includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, and bladder. In men, this encompasses the bladder, prostate, and seminal vesicles.   The ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves, which are sent through the body, bouncing off tissues and transf

What is perimenopause? Perimenopause, sometimes also called the ‘menopause transition’, is the period leading up to the menopause. Menopause, which is the more well-known term, is the medical definition of the permanent end of menstrual cycles. Perimenopause starts when the first features of approaching the menopause occur such as menopausal symptoms and menstrual changes, and en

What are perineal wounds?A perineal wound is often sustained at childbirth. This may be in the form of a tear at the time of the delivery or a planned cut called an episiotomy. The perineal tear may involve the skin of the perineum and the lining of the vagina alone when it is superficial, but can extend to the muscles of the perineum and, at its worst, involve the muscles around the back passage

What is period pain? Period pain is a normal part of the menstrual cycle and most women experience it at some point in their lives. It is felt as painful muscle cramps in the lower abdomen that can sometimes spread to the back and thighs. Period pain usually starts on the first day of the period, although many women experience pain a few days before. It normally lasts between 48 and 72 hours

What is peritoneal carcinomatosis? Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), also known as peritoneal cancer, is the spread of cancer that originates in the peritoneum, the thin membrane that covers the abdominal cavity, which includes the rectum, uterus and bladder. Peritoneal carcinomatosis generally occurs as a consequence of a tumour of the appendix, colon-rectum, or the ovaries, but it can also orig

What is platelet-rich plasma? Platelet-rich plasma is a blood derivative that stimulates the production of collagen, elastin and epidermal tissue. It is used to achieve firmer, brighter and better-quality skin.   Why is the treatment performed? Platelet-rich plasma is a cosmetic treatment aimed at rejuvenating the skin of the face, particularly the area between the eyebrows, t

What is polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)?Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a complex hormonal condition affecting how a woman’s ovaries function due to an imbalance of reproductive hormones. Until recently, it was known as PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome).   PMOS causes the ovaries to produce abnormal androgens (male sex hormones). Hormones regulate t