Endocrine System

Structures of the Endocrine System

Adrenal Glands adren/o

Regulate electrolyte levels, influence metabolism, and respond to stress.

The adrenal glands sit atop the kidneys and have varied functions. Often referred to as salt, sugar, sex and sympathetic, the adrenals help control electrolyte levels (salt), regulate glucose metabolism (sugar), produce small amounts of sex hormones (sex) and interact with nervous system (sympathetic).

One adrenal gland is located on top of each kidney. Each adrenal gland consists of the adrenal cortex and adrenal medulla

Gonads gonad/o

Gamete (sex cell) producing glands.

These are the ovaries in females and testicles in males which are responsible for the production of sex hormones. Major hormones from the gonads include:

Male Testicles testic/o

Sperm producing glands

Female Ovaries ovari/o

Ova (egg) producing glands

Pancreas pancreat/o

Controls blood sugar levels and glucose metabolism.

Perhaps the most famous of all the endocrine organs because of its production of insulin, this feather-shape organ is located posterior to the stomach and also you may recall functions in the digestive system! The pancreas, in addition to secreting digestive juices, produces the hormones insulin and glucagon. Insulin released from beta cells is responsible for lowering blood sugar, while glucagon released from alpha cells increases blood glucose levels.

Parathyroid Glands parathyroid/o

Regulates calcium levels.

The parathyroid gland works in conjunction with the thyroid gland to regulate calcium. However, the parathyroid gland is responsible for raising blood calcium levels.

The parathyroid glands are actually quite hidden, located on the posterior surface of the thyroid gland itself.

Pineal gland pineal/o

Produces melatonin to regulate sleep-wakefulness cycles.

The pineal gland is a tiny gland found within a central area of the brain known as the epithalamus and produces melatonin. Melatonin: influences the sleep–wakefulness portions of circadian cycle. The circadian cycle refers to the biological functions that occur within a 24-hour period.

The pineal gland is located within the brain.

Pituitary gland pituit/o, pituitar/o

Regulatory gland which secretes hormones to control other endocrine glands and hormone release

Thymus thym/o

Plays a major role in the immune reaction.

The thymus is located near the heart and actually decreases in size as we age, turning mostly into a fatty tissue. The thymus plays an important role in the development and maturation of the immune system, hence it being enlarged in size when young as the immune system is growing. It produces a hormone call thymosin which helps mature cells important for recognizing pathogens.

Thyroid Gland thyr/o, thyroid/o

Stimulates metabolism, growth and the activity of the nervous system.

A butterfly shaped organ which sits in the neck and produces the thyroid hormones, Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones help regulate the body’s metabolism, as well as assist in proper development of the nervous system.

Production of calcitonin is perhaps a lesser-known function of the thyroid but equally important. It regulates calcium homeostasis in the body by reducing blood calcium. Thus calcitonin, “tones down” calcium. Calcium regulation is important for proper functioning of the muscles, heart and nerves.

The Hypothalamus and Pituitary

Imagine the hypothalamus as the CEO of the endocrine system while the pituitary is the local manager. The hypothalamus, also known as the master regulator, releases regulatory hormones which will be sent to the pituitary as a signal to release hormones to their respective organs. For example, the hypothalamus will release thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH). TRH is sent to the pituitary gland (the manager) who will release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TH stimulates the thyroid gland itself to release thyroid hormones. This is a sort of cascade which allows for precise control and multiple levels of regulation regarding hormone release.

In addition to releasing and stimulating hormones, the hypothalamus produces two hormones which are released from the posterior pituitary, oxytocin (OXT) and anti-diuretic hormone (ADH). Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and is known as the “love hormone”. ADH helps retain water in the body via reabsorption in the kidneys.

Stimulating Hormones

Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)

Stimulates the growth and secretions of the adrenal cortex.

Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Estrogen secretion (female); sperm production (male).

Growth hormone (GH)

Also known as somatotropic hormone.

Regulates growth.

Lactogenic Hormone (LTH)

Also known as prolactin.

Stimulates/maintains secretion of breast milk.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Ovulation (female).

Secretion of testosterone (male).

Melanocyte-stimulating Hormone (MSH)

Increases the production of melanin.

Thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Stimulates secretion of hormones by thyroid gland.

Sex Hormones

Estrogen

Secreted by the ovaries and plays a major role in regulation of the menstrual cycle and development of female secondary sex characteristics

Progesterone

Secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovaries, it is important in preparing the uterus for pregnancy.

Testosterone

A steroid hormone secreted by the testicles which helps aid in sperm production as well as the development of male secondary sex characteristics.

Medical Specialties of the Endocrine System

Endocrinologist

A physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and malfunction of the endocrine gland.

Pathology of the Endocrine System

As you may have guessed, because there are a lot of endocrine structures, there are numerous pathologies. Let’s look at some by structure.

Acromegaly Pituitary gland

Abnormal enlargement of extremities (hands and feet); excessive secretion of growth hormone after puberty.

Gigantism Pituitary gland

Abnormal growth; excessive secretion of growth hormone before puberty.

Galactorrhea Pituitary gland

Excess prolactin.

Causes breasts to produce milk spontaneously, not due to childbirth.

Diabetes Insipidus (DI) Pituitary gland

Not related to diabetes mellitus; caused by insufficient production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and results in excessive urination

Hypothyroidism Thyroid gland

Underactive thyroid.

Hashimoto’s Disease Thyroid gland

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Cretinism Thyroid gland

Congenital form of hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism Thyroid gland

Also known as thyrotoxicosis.

Overproduction of thyroid hormones.

Graves’ Disease Thyroid gland

Disorder of unknown cause; immune system attacks the thyroid gland.

Goiter (thyromegaly) Thyroid gland

Benign enlargement of the thyroid gland.

Hyperparathyroidism Parathyroid glands

Overproduction of the parathyroid hormone.

Hypoparathyroidism Parathyroid glands

Insufficient or absent secretion of the parathyroid hormone.

Myasthenia Gravis Thymus

Abnormally large thymus, with or without a thymoma; the immune system mistakenly attacks the parts of the nervous system that result in muscle weakness

Addison’s Disease Adrenal

Adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol or aldosterone.

Cushing’s syndrome (hypercortisolism) Adrenal

Caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

Hyperglycemia Pancreas

Abnormally high concentration of glucose in the blood: results in polydipsia (excessive thirst); polyphagia (excessive hunger); polyuria (excessive urination).

Hypoglycemia Pancreas

Abnormally low concentration of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

Diabetes Mellitus Pancreas

Most common endocrine system disease; Group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia which results from defects in production of insulin due to autoimmune issues (type 1) or ability to use it properly (type 2)

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) Pancreas

Form of diabetes mellitus with onset occurring around the 24th week of pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) Pancreas

Life-threatening diabetes complication caused by a buildup of acids (called ketones) in the blood

Diabetic Coma Pancreas

Caused by very high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) or very low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) resulting in stupor or a coma

Severe Hypoglycemia Pancreas

Also known as insulin shock, diabetic shock, or insulin reaction which is caused by very low blood glucose levels

Reproductive System

It probably comes as no surprise that the major function of the reproductive system is to reproduce! In a few more words, the male reproductive system produces and matures sperm to deliver to the female reproductive system. From there, the ovum produced by a female will unite with the sperm and produce offspring. It may seem simple, but the intricacies of structures, interplay with endocrine system and timing all play a pivotal role in the production of new life.

Structures of the Reproductive System

Penis pen/I, phall/i

Used for sexual intercourse and urination.

Testicles orch/o, orchid/o, test/I, test/o

Produce sperm and the hormone testosterone.

Ovaries, Ovary oophor/o, ovari/o

Produce ova (Eggs) and female hormones.

Fallopian Tubes salping/o

Catch the mature ovum (egg) and transport it to the uterus; site of fertilization.

Uterus hyster/o, metr/o, metri/o, uter/o

Protects and supports the developing embryo/fetus.

Vagina vagin/o, colp/o

Used for sexual intercourse, channel for menstrual flow and serves as the birth canal.

Placenta placent/o

Exchanges nutrients and wastes between mother and fetus during pregnancy.

Male Reproductive System

Let’s dive into the male reproductive system first! Unlike the female reproductive system, the male shares this system with the urinary system. We will navigate this system structure by structure as we learn the pathway sperm take from production to the female system.

Testes

Two small, egg-shaped glands that produce the sperm within their seminiferous tubules. This process is called spermatogenesis.

The testes lie inferior to the body to help keep sperm at a cooler, more optimal temperature.

Scrotum

Sac-like structure that surrounds, protects, and supports testicles.

Epididymis

A coiled tube that is the site of sperm maturation and storage.

Any sperm not ejaculated from here will eventually be resorbed.

Vas Deferens

A tube which connects the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct and urethra for exit of sperm.

Seminal vesicle

Glands which secrete a substance that contributes to semen to nourish sperm.

Ejaculatory Duct

Tube which connects the vas deferens to the urethra.

Prostate Gland

Gland which lies posterior to the bladder and secretes a thick, alkaline fluid that contributes to semen.

Bulbourethral Glands

Glands which secrete a pre-ejaculate to clear the urethra of any acidic urine before ejaculation.

Urethra

Passageway which passes through the penis to the outside of the body.

Serves to pass urine and semen which contains sperm to the outside of the body.

Penis

Sac-like structure of copulation which contains the urethra.

During sexual stimulation, erectile tissue fills with blood under high pressure.

Female Reproductive System

The female reproductive system perhaps has less structures, but the monthly coordination of egg development, ovulation and menstruation is quite complicated. In addition, the female reproduction must continue to grow and nourish new life once formed, while the male reproductive system is only required to supply sperm. We will only gently scratch the surface in this lesson.

Ovaries

Pair of almond shaped organs which contain follicles (fluid filled sacs) that each contain an ovum (egg). The ovaries are not technically connected to the fallopian tubes.

Fallopian Tubes

Also known as the uterine tubes, they catch the ovulated ovum via fimbriae (finger-like extensions) and deliver it to the uterus

Uterus

Structure where the fertilized egg will implant and grow.

It contains three layers of tissue: perimetrium, myometrium, and endometrium.

Perimetrium Uterus

Tough, membranous outer layer.

Myometrium Uterus

Muscular middle layer important for uterine contractions.

Endometrium Uterus

Inner layer where the fertilized egg will implant.

Cervix

The lower narrow portion of the uterus which dilates for childbirth.

Vagina

Muscular tube lined with mucosa that extends from the cervix to the outside of the body, serving as the site of sperm delivery as well as the birth canal.

Vulva (pudendum)

The vulva is the external part of the female genitalia, which includes structures like the mons pubis, labia, and clitoris.

Labia majora and labia minora

Vaginal lips

Clitoris

Organ of sensitive erectile tissue.

Bartholin’s Glands

Produce mucus secretion.

Vaginal Orifice

Exterior opening of vagina.

Breasts

Made of fat, connective tissue, and mammary glands which contain lactiferous ducts (milk ducts) where milk is made and flows out through nipples.

Ovulation

Release of a mature egg from a follicle of the ovaries.

Happens on approximately 13th or 14th day of a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Corpus Luteum Ovulation

Structure which secretes progesterone during second half of menstrual cycle to maintain the uterine lining in preparation for the implantation of a fertilized egg.

Endometrium Lining Ovulation

Sloughs off as menstrual flow occurs (occurs if ovum is not fertilized).

Fertilization

Conception Fertilization

One sperm penetrates and fertilizes the ovum, forming a zygote.

Implantation Fertilization

Embedding of the zygote into the lining of the uterus.

Fetus

Baby in utero from the 9th week of pregnancy to the time of birth.

Medical Specialties of the Reproductive System

Gynecologist

Physician who specializes in female reproductive health and in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the female reproductive system

Obstetrician

Physician who specializes in providing medical care to people during pregnancy, childbirth and immediately there after

Certified Midwife

Assists in labor and delivery.

A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is an RN with specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology who provides primary care in normal pregnancies and deliveries.

A doula is an experienced birth coach, usually without formal obstetric training, hired to provided added support and guidance during labor, delivery and the postpartum period.

Neonatologist

Physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the newborn.

Infertility Specialist

Also known as a reproductive endocrinologist.

Helps infertile patients by diagnosing and treating problems associated with conception and maintaining pregnancy.

Pathology of the Reproductive System

Balanitis

Inflammation of the glans penis.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) (impotence)

Inability to achieve or maintain a penile erection.

Peyronie’s Disease (penile curvature)

Penis is bent or curved during erection.

Priapism

Painful and persistent erection lasting 4 hours or more.

Andropause (male menopause)

Decrease of the male hormone testosterone.

Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle)

Testicle(s) fails to descend into the scrotum.

Epididymitis

Inflammation of the epididymis resulting from a bacterial infection.

Testicular Cancer

Cancer that begins in the testicles.

Azoospermia

Absence of sperm in semen.

Oligospermia

Sperm count of below 15 million/mL.

Chlamydia

Most commonly reported STI (sexually transmitted infection) in the United States.

Genital Warts

STI caused by human papillomaviruses (HPV).

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

STI transmitted through infected body fluids.

Syphilis

STI caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Trichomoniasis (trich)

STI infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis.

Dermoid cyst (teratoma)

benign tumor containing various tissues.

Ovarian Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs in or on an ovary.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

hormone imbalance; irregular menstrual cycles.

Pyosalpinx

accumulation of pus in a fallopian tube.

Salpingitis

inflammation of a fallopian tube.

Endometriosis

Patches of endometrial tissue escape the uterus and become attached to other structures in the pelvic cavity.

Uterine fibroids (myomas)

benign tumors composed of muscle and fibrous tissue.

Uterine prolapse (pelvic floor hernia)

weakening of pelvic muscles and supportive tissues; uterus slides into the pelvic cavity and sags into the vagina.

Dyspareunia

pain during sexual intercourse.

Leukorrhea

whitish mucus discharge from the uterus and vagina.

Vaginal Candidiasis (yeast infection)

Caused by the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans.

Vulvodynia

Painful syndrome of the vulva.

Lasts at least 3 months.

Unknown cause.

Galactorrhea

Production of breast milk in a woman who is not breastfeeding.

Mastitis

Breast infection caused by bacteria that enter the mammary glands.

Amenorrhea

abnormal absence of menstrual periods for 90 days or more.

Menorrhagia

excessive amount of menstrual flow.

Polymenorrhea

menstrual cycles more frequently than is normal.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

Severe emotional and physical problems.

Closely linked to the menstrual cycle.

Ectopic pregnancy (extrauterine pregnancy)

Fertilized egg implants outside the uterus.

Abruptio Placentae

Also known as placental abruption.

Placenta separates from the uterine wall.

Placenta Previa

Abnormal placenta implantation.

Partially or completely covering cervix.

Preeclampsia

Pregnancy-induced hypertension and protein in the urine (proteinuria).

Eclampsia

Seizures and coma; develop from uncontrolled preeclampsia.

HELLP syndrome

Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count.

Postpartum Depression

Feelings of sadness and loss of pleasure in normal activities; lasts beyond 2 weeks.

Word List

Word Parts

acr/o

extremities (hands and feet), top, extreme point

adren/o

adrenal glands

crin/o

to secrete

-dipsia

thirst

glyc/o

glucose, sugar

gonad/o

gonad, sex glands

-ism

condition, state of

pancreat/o

pancreas

parathyroid/o

parathyroid glands

pineal/o

pineal gland

pituitar/o

pituitary gland

poly-

many

somat/o

body

thym/o

thymus gland

thyr/o, thyroid/o

thyroid gland

cervic/o

neck

cervix (neck of uterus)

colp/o

vagina

-gravida

pregnant

gynec/o

woman, female

hyster/o

uterus

mast/o

breast, mastoid process

men/o

menstruation, month

orchid/o

testicles, testis, testes

ov/o

egg, ovum

ovari/o, oophor/o

ovary

-para

to give birth

-pexy

surgical fixation

salping/o

fallopian (uterine) tube, auditory (eustachian) tube.

test/i

testicle, testis

vagin/o

vagina

Terms

abruptio placentae ah-BRUP-shee-oh plah-SEN-tee

Also known as placental abruption.

Placenta separates from the uterine wall.

acromegaly ack-roh-MEG-ah-lee

A hormonal disorder that results from the ptuitary gland producing too much growth hormone in adults.

Addison’s disease AD-ih-sonz

A condition that occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol or aldosterone.

adrenalitis ah-dree-nal-EYE-tis

The inflammation of the adrenal glands.

aldosteronism al-DOSS-teh-roh-niz-em

An abnormality of electrolyte balance caused by excessive excretion of aldosterone.

amenorrhea ah-men-oh-REE-ah

Abnormal absence of menstrual periods for 90 days or more.

amniocentesis am-nee-oh-sen-TEE-sis

A procedure used to take out a small sample of the amniotic fluid for testing.

andropause AN-droh-pawz

Also known as male menopause.

Happens when men's testosterone levels drop as they get older.

antidiuretic hormone an-tih-dye-you- RET-ick

Maintains the water balance within the body by promoting the reabsorption of water through the kidneys.

Apgar Score AP-gr

A way to evaluate the health of newborns after birth.

azoospermia ay-zoh-oh-SPER-mee-ah

Absence of sperm in semen.

calcitonin kal-sih-TOH-nin

A hormone secreted by the thyroid glands.

Works with the parathyroid hormones to regulate calcium in the blood and tissues.

cervical dysplasia SER-vih-kal dis-PLAY- see-ah

A conditon in which abnormal cells grow on the cervix.

cervicitis ser-vih-SIGH-tis

Inflammation of the cervix.

chlamydia klah-MID-ee-ah

?

chorionic villus sampling kor-ee-ON-ick VIL-us

?

colostrum kuh-LOS-trum

The first form of breast milk that is released by the mammary glands after giving birth.

colporrhaphy kol-POR-ah-fee

A surgical procedure in women that repairs a defect in the wall of the vagina.

colposcopy kol-POS-koh-pee

Colposcopy is an exam that looks closely at the cervix.

corticosteroids kor-tih-koh-STEHR-oidz

Also known as glucocorticoids.

Corticosteroids are prescription steroid hormone medications that treat pain and inflammation.

cortisol KOR-tih-sol

Your body’s main stress hormone.

cretinism CREE-tin-izm

A congenital form of hypothyroidism, that if not treated, causes arrested physical and mental development.

Cushing’s syndrome KUSH-ingz

Caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.

diabetes insipidus dye-ah-BEE-teez in-SIP-ih-dus

A condition caused by insufficient production of the anti-diuretic hormone, or by the inability of the kidneys to respond to the anti-diuretic hormone.

diabetes mellitus dye-ah-BEE-teez MEL-ih-tus

A group of metabolic disorders, characterized by hyperglycemia, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.

diabetic ketoacidosis kee-toh-ah-seh-DOH-sis

?

diabetic retinopathy ret-ih-NOP-ah-thee

Occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels in the eye.

dysmenorrhea dis-men-oh-REE-ah

?

eclampsia eh-KLAMP-see-ah

A rare condition in which a pregnant or postpartum woman suddenly experiences seizures.

ectopic pregnancy eck-TOP-ick

?

electrolytes ee-LECK-troh-lytes

Mineral substances, such as sodium and potassium, that are normally found in the blood.

endometriosis en-doh-mee-tree-OH-sis

?

epididymitis ep-ih-did-ih-MY-tis

?

epinephrine ep-ih-NEF-rin

Also known as adrenaline, and norepinephrine.

Stimulates the sympathetic nervous system.

episiotomy eh-piz-ee-OT-oh-mee

?

estrogen ES-troh-jen

The female hormone that is important in the development and maintanance of the female secondary sex characteristics, and in regulation of the menstrual cycle.

exophthalmos eck-sof-THAL-mos

An abnormal protrusion of the eyes.

fibroadenoma figh-broh-ad-eh-NOH-mah

?

follicle-stimulating hormone FOL-lick-kul

Stimulates the excretion of estrogen, and the growth of eggs in the ovaries of the female.

In the male, it stimulates the production of sperm in the testicles.

fructosamine test fruck-TOHS-ah-meen

A blood test administered to patients with diabetes to measure average glucose levels over the previous 3 weeks.

galactorrhea gah-lack-toh-REE-ah

?

gestational diabetes mellitus jes-TAY-shun-al dye-ah-BEE-teez MEL-ih-tus

The form of diabetes that occurs during some pregnancies.

gigantism jigh-GAN-tiz-em

An abnormal condition caused by excessive secretion of growth hormone during childhood that causes overgrowth of the long bones and very tall stature.

glucagon GLOO-kah-gon

A hormone that increases the amount of glucose, by stimulating the liver to convert glycogen into glucose for release into the blood stream.

glucose GLOO-kohs

The basic form of energy used by the body.

Also known as blood sugar.

gonorrhea gon-oh-REE-ah

A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Graves’ disease GRAYVZ

An autoimmune disorder that is a form of hypothyroidism, characterized by goiter, exofthalmous, or both.

growth hormone growth hor-mown

Also known as somatotropic hormone.

Regulates growth.

gynecomastia guy-neh-koh-MAS-tee-ah

The condition of excessive mamory development in the male.

Hashimoto’s disease hah-shee-MOH-tohz

An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks thyroid tissue.

hematospermia hee-mah-toh-SPER-mee-ah

?

hydrocele HIGH-droh-seel

?

hypercalcemia high-per-kal-SEE-mee-ah

A condition characterized by abnormally high concentrations of calcium circulating in the blood instead of being stored in the bones.

hyperglycemia high-per-glye-SEE-mee-ah

An abnormally high concentration of glucose in the blood.

hyperinsulinism high-per-IN-suh-lin-izm

A condition marked by the excessive secretion of insulin.

hyperpituitarism high-per-pih-TOO-ih-tah-rizm

Pathology that results in the excessive secretion of hormones by the anterior lobe of the ptuitary gland.

hyperthyroidism high-per-THIGH-roid-izm

A condition of excessive thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.

hypoglycemia high-poh-gly-SEE-mee-ah

An abnormally low concentration of glucose in the blood.

hypomenorrhea high-poh-men-oh-REE-ah

?

Hypothyroidism high-poh-THIGH-roid-izm

A deficiency of thyroid secretion.

hysterectomy hiss-teh-RECK-toh-mee

The surgical removal of your uterus and cervix.

hysterosalpingography hiss-ter-oh-sal-pin-GOG-rah-fee

?

hysteroscopy hiss-ter-OSS-koh-pee

A visual examination of the uterus.

insulin IN-suh-lin

A hormone that manages your blood sugar levels.

insulinoma in-suh-lin-OH-mah

A benign tumor of the pancreas that causes hypoglycemia.

ketosis kee-TOH-sis

A metabolic state where your body burns fat instead of energy.

lactation lack-TAY-shun

Lactation is the process of producing and releasing milk from the mammary glands in your breasts during pregnancy and after birth.

laparoscopic adrenalectomy lap-ah-roh-SKOP-ick ah-dree-nal-ECK-toh-mee

A minimally invasive procedure to surgically remove one or both adrenal glands.

leptin LEP-tin

A hormone secreted by fat cells.

leukorrhea loo-koh-REE-ah

Vaginal discharge.

luteinizing hormone LOO-tee-in-eye-zing

Stimulates ovulation in the female, and production of the female sex hormone, progesterone.

In the male, it stimulates the secretion of testosterone.

mastalgia mass-TAL-jee-ah

Breast pain.

mastopexy MAS-toh-peck-see

Also known as a breast lift.

Is surgery to change the shape and appearance of the breasts.

menarche MEN-ar-kee

The first menstrual cycle, or first menstrual bleeding, in female humans.

menometrorrhagia men-oh-met-roh-RAY-jee-ah

Also known as heavy irregular menstrual bleeding.

A condition in which prolonged or excessive uterine bleeding occurs irregularly and more frequently than normal.

myxedema mick-seh-DEE-mah

A severe form of adult hypothyroidism, with symptoms including an enlarged tongue, and puffiness of the hands and face.

neonate NEE-oh-nayt

Also known as a newborn.

An infant up to 28 days old.

norepinephrine nor-ep-ih-NEF-rin

Both a hormone, and a neurohormone, that plays an important role in the fight or flight response, by raising blood pressure, strengthening the heart beat, and stimulating muscle contractions.

nullipara nuh-LIP-ah-rah

?

obstetrician ob-steh-TRISH-un

?

oligomenorrhea ol-ih-goh-men-oh-REE-ah

Infrequent menstrual periods.

oophorectomy oh-ahf-oh-RECK-toh-mee

Surgical removal of one or both ovaries.

orchiectomy or-kee-ECK-toh-mee

The surgical removal of your testicles.

orchiopexy or-kee-oh-PECK-see

Surgery to correct the placement of the testicle that hasn’t dropped into the scrotum.

oxytocin ock-see-TOH-sin

The hormone secreted by the ptuitary gland that stimulates uterine contractions during childbirth.

pancreatitis pan-kree-ah-TYE-tis

Inflammation of the pancreas.

parathyroidectomy par-ah-thigh-roi-DECK-toh-mee

The surgical removal of one or both parathyroid glands.

pelvic inflammatory disease

?

perimenopause pehr-ih-MEN-oh-pawz

?

Peyronie’s disease pay-roh-NEEZ

?

pituitary adenoma pih-TOO-ih-tair-ee ad-eh-NOH-mah

A bernign tumor of the ptuitary gland that causes excess hormone secretion.

placenta previa plah-SEN-tah PREE-vee-ah

?

polydipsia pol-ee-DIP-see-ah

Excessive thirst.

polyphagia pol-ee-FAY-jee-ah

Excessive hunger.

polyuria pol-ee-YOU-ree-ah

Excessive urination.

polycystic ovary syndrome pol-ee-SIS-tick

hormone imbalance.

Irregular menstrual cycles.

postpartum pohst-PAR-tum

?

prediabetes pree-dye-ah-BEE-teez

?

preeclampsia pree-ee-KLAMP-see-ah

?

priapism PRYE-ah-piz-em

A condition in which a penis remains erect for hours in the absence of stimulation or after stimulation has ended.

primigravida prye-mih-GRAV-ih-dah

Refers to a woman who is pregnant for the first time.

primipara prye-MIP-ah-rah

Refers to a woman who is giving birth for the first time, or who has given birth once.

progesterone proh-JES-ter-ohn

The female hormone that functions to complete the preparations for pregnancy.

prolactinoma proh-lack-tih-NOH-mah

A benign tumor of the ptuitary gland that causes it to produce too much prolactin.

pruritus vulvae proo-RYE-tus VUL-vee

Itching of the vulva.

puberty PYU-ber-tee

?

radioactive iodine treatment ray-dee-ow-ak-tuhv ai-uh-dine

?

salpingo-oophorectomy sal-ping-goh- oh-ahf-oh-RECK-toh-mee

The surgical removal of an ovary and its fallopian tube.

steroids STEHR-oidz

Hormones that occur naturally in the body.

syphilis SIF-ih-lis

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testosterone tes-TOS-teh-rohn

The hormone secreted by the testicles that stimulates the development of male secondary sex characteristics.

thymectomy thigh-MECK-toh-mee

The surgical removal of the thymous gland.

thymosin THIGH-moh-sin

The hormone secreted by the thymous, that stimulates the maturation of the lymphocytes into t-cells of the immune system.

thyroxine thigh-ROCK-sin

One of the two primary thyroid hormones, influences the rate of metabolism.

Contains iodine.

trichomoniasis trick-oh-moh-NYE-ah-sis

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uterine prolapse YOU-ter-ihn proh-LAPS

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vaginismus VAJ-ih-nihz-mis

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varicocele VAR-ih-koh-seel

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vasovasostomy vay-soh-vah-ZOS-toh-mee

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vulvodynia vul-voh-DIN-ee-ah

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