Medical dictionary

What is 4D ultrasound? Ultrasound is an imaging technique which allows a foetus to be observed in real time in the womb. As well as providing a high-quality image of the foetus, 4D ultrasound can be used for diagnostic imaging, allowing a healthcare specialist to observe the body's structures and tissues. During pregnancy, 3D ultrasound allows you to see three-dimensional images of your

What does it mean if your smear test results are abnormal?   If you have an abnormal smear test result, this does not mean you have cancer. Instead, you have some changes in the cells of your cervix. Depending on how abnormal these changes are, there is a potential for these cells to develop into cancer in the future.   Some types of abnormal result will not need treatment, w

What is aesthetic gynaecology?  Aesthetic gynaecology is quite a new branch of medicine that allows women to alter their intimate body parts, whether it is for sexual function or appearance. Procedures may be surgical or non-surgical.     Why might someone have an aesthetic gynaecological procedure? A woman may want to rejuvenate their body and reproductive system

What is amenorrhoea? Amenorrhoea is the absence of a menstrual period in a woman of reproductive age. It may be physiological in the following moments of a woman’s life: puberty, menopause, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Other than that, amenorrhoea can be caused by various gynaecological conditions. Amenorrhoea can be divided into two categories: Primary amenorrhoea: it can occur

What is amniocentesis? Amniocentesis is a test sometimes performed during pregnancy to check for genetic or chromosomal conditions in the baby. To do so, a sample of the amniotic fluid is taken. This is the fluid that surrounds the unborn baby in the uterus. This test can test for Down’s syndrome, for example. An obstetrician or gynaecologist will carry out this procedure. Wha

What is anorgasmia? Anorgasmia is a consistent inability or difficulty in reaching orgasm, even with abundant sexual stimulation. It is one of the most common sexual disorders in women. It can occur in men, although less frequently. The different types of anorgasmia are: Lifelong anorgasmia - when a person has never achieved orgasm Acquired anorgasmia - when a person was able to

What is antenatal care? Antenatal care or prenatal care is the care a woman receives while pregnant to ensure that both mother and baby are as healthy as possible. It involves regular check-ups with a doctor or midwife, with scans, screenings, and blood tests to check on the development of the baby and identify any health problems in either mother or child that could cause problems. Pregn

What is antiphospholipid syndrome? Antiphospholipid syndrome, also known as Hughes Syndrome, is an autoimmune disorder which can cause blood clots anywhere in the body. It involves the production of antibodies called antiphospholipids, which attack the proteins on the outside of your blood cells. As well as causing blood clots, antiphospholipid syndrome can result in complications during pre

What is Asherman’s syndrome? Asherman’s syndrome or Asherman syndrome is a rare, acquired condition that refers to the presence of scar tissue in the uterus or cervix. This scar tissue causes the uterine walls to thicken, reducing the size of the uterus, and in severe cases, the walls can sometimes fuse together. Asherman’s syndrome is also known as intrauterine adhesions (IUA