Medical dictionary

What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?An intrauterine device, more commonly known as an IUD, is a contraceptive device. It is a small copper device that is T-shaped and inserted into the uterus. No hormones are released by this device, as copper changes the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive. This change in mucus also stops a fertilised egg implanting itself.

What is intrauterine insemination? Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is one of the most used techniques in reproductive medicine. Sperm is deposited in the woman's vagina through artificial means and not sexual intercourse. The semen used can belong to the partner of the woman who wants to become pregnant or it can come from a sperm donor.   What does it consist of? The

What is an intravitreal injection? An intravitreal injection is form of administering treatment for various eye disorders, such as macular degeneration. Treatment usually consists of using anti-VEGF drugs (which prevent the development of new blood vessels), immunosuppressive agents or anti-inflammatory drugs.             &nb

What is inverted nipple correction surgery? The purpose of inverted nipple correction surgery is to place inverted nipples, also called flat or umbilicated nipples, in their natural position: protruding, rather than retracted. This is a simple operation of short duration, and it can be performed under local anaesthesia.     Why is the operation carried out? In some wom

What is Invisalign? Invisalign is an invisible orthodontics technique that allows the correction of your teeth to produce an improved smile. Invisalign does not use metal wires as braces do, and they are virtually invisible when being worn. Special trays are custom made for your teeth, and every few weeks you wear a new tray, designed to eventually straighten your teeth.   What

What are invisible braces? Invisible braces correct the position of the bones and teeth using appliances that are invisible to the eye. With this technique, the fixed appliances (braces) are placed on the inner side of the teeth, whereas with the conventional technique they are placed on the outer side. The same results are obtained with both techniques, but invisible braces are more aesthetica

What is in vitro fertilisation? In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a procedure in which an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in a laboratory. Once fertilised, the egg is transferred to the woman’s uterus, with the goal of successful pregnancy. It is a common fertility treatment. Why is in vitro fertilisation performed? This treatment is an option which can help a woman t

What is iron deficiency? Iron is an important mineral that the human body requires, particularly for processes involving oxygen. The principal biological use of iron in humans is as a constituent of haemoglobin – the protein found in red blood cells that binds to oxygen. Haemoglobin enables the red blood cells to transport oxygen around the body and deliver it to the cells that need it. I

What are iron metabolism disorders? Iron metabolism disorders are a group of conditions which involve an excess or deficiency of iron in the body. Iron is vital to the production of red blood cells and therefore is key to survival, but an excess of iron can cause cell damage due to oxidative stress. Proper regulation of the levels of iron in your body is therefore important. The most common