Endometrial ablation Minimally invasive destructive technique aimed at the complete elimination of the thickness of the uterine endometrial layer to control abnormal uterine bleeding.

Also: thermal endometrial destruction · resection of the uterine lining

Medroxyprogesterone acetate Long-acting synthetic progestin used by injection as a depot contraceptive or orally for the treatment of abnormal bleeding.

Also: synthetic depot progestin · delayed medroxyprogesterone acetate

Placental accreta Abnormally firm adhesion of the placenta to the uterine wall with total or partial absence of the decidua basalis, preventing its normal physiological detachment after birth.

Also: pathological attached placenta · abnormal trophoblastic invasion

Fetal attitude Mutual relationship between the different parts of the fetus's body, typically determining a generalized flexion with the chin on the thorax and the limbs bent on the trunk.

Also: fetal posture · generalized fetal flexion

Adenomyosis Invasion of functional endometrial tissue in the thickness of the myometrial muscle tissue, which produces an increase in uterine size, pelvic pain and abundant bleeding.

Also: internal endometriosis · myometrial infiltration of endometrium

Uterine height Distance measured in centimeters on the pregnant woman's abdomen that extends from the upper edge of the pubic symphysis to the bottom of the uterus.

Also: height of the bottom of the matrix · measurement of gestational uterine growth

Lighting Third stage of labor that runs from the complete expulsion of the fetus to the total departure of the placenta and the ovular membranes from the inside of the uterine cavity.

Also: placental period · third period of labor

Active lighting Prophylactic management of the third stage of labor through administration of oxytocin and controlled cord traction to shorten its duration and reduce blood loss.

Also: active management of the third stage · directed delivery with oxytocin

Spontaneous birth Detachment, descent and natural expulsion of the placenta and membranes driven exclusively by physiological uterine contractile dynamics without medical intervention.

Also: birth of Schultze or Duncan · spontaneous delivery of placenta

Manual lighting Direct digital or manual extraction of the placenta retained inside the uterine cavity under anesthesia to avoid hemorrhages due to lack of physiological detachment.

Also: manual placental removal · manual extraction of cotyledons

Amniocentesis Invasive prenatal diagnosis procedure that consists of transabdominal puncture of the uterine cavity under ultrasound guidance for the extraction and subsequent cytogenetic, biochemical or molecular analysis of a sample of amniotic fluid.

Also: amniotic puncture · amniotic fluid extraction

Amnios Internal and resistant avascular membrane of the gestational sac that is in direct contact with the amniotic fluid and the fetus.

Also: internal amniotic sheet · internal membrane of the bag of waters

Amnioscopy Direct visualization of the appearance and color of the amniotic fluid through the intact ovular membranes using an endoscope introduced through the canal of the dilated cervix.

Also: amniotic endoscopic examination · visualization of the amniotic lower pole

Amniotomy Intentional artificial rupture of the ovular membranes using a specific rupture instrument, performed during labor to accelerate uterine dynamics or allow internal monitoring.

Also: artificial rupture of membranes · instrumental artificial amniorrhexis

Adnexectomy Surgical removal of the uterine annexes represented mainly by the fallopian tubes and the ovaries associated with one side of the uterus.

Also: salpingo-oophorectomy · pelvic annex resection

Vaginal ring Flexible transparent polymer ring that is self-placed in the vagina, releasing a constant daily dose of estrogens and progestogens by absorption from the mucosa.

Also: monthly contraceptive ring · circular vaginal contraceptive

Intrapartum antibiotic therapy Prophylactic administration of intravenous antibiotics from the beginning of labor or after rupture of membranes in women colonized by group B streptococcus.

Also: intrapartum antibiotic prevention · infectious prophylaxis during childbirth

Contraception Set of chemical, hormonal, mechanical or surgical methods used voluntarily to temporarily or permanently prevent the development of a pregnancy.

Also: family planning · pregnancy prevention

Emergency contraception Contraceptive methods administered after unprotected sexual intercourse or failure of a conventional method to prevent pregnancy by delaying ovulation.

Also: postcoital contraception · morning after pill

Progestin-only contraceptive Estrogen-free hormonal contraceptive method that acts by thickening cervical mucus and inhibiting ovulation to a variable degree, ideal during breastfeeding.

Also: mini progestin pill · estrogen-free contraception

Combined oral contraceptives Daily oral drugs that contain a mixture of an estrogen and a progestin to effectively suppress ovulation by blocking GnRH.

Also: combined contraceptive pill · combined birth control pills

Fetal middle cerebral artery Cerebral arterial vessel of the fetus whose Doppler study allows assessing the presence of adaptive vasodilation in response to hypoxia or the flow velocity in the event of suspected anemia.

Also: Doppler flow of the MCA · fetal cerebral control vessel

Umbilical artery Paired blood vessel that transports deoxygenated blood and metabolic waste from the fetus to the placenta for subsequent purification and oxygenation.

Also: arterial vessels of the cord · fetoplacental outlet arteries

Single umbilical artery Structural anomaly of the umbilical cord characterized by the presence of a single outflow artery instead of the usual two arteries.

Also: two-vessel umbilical cord · solitary umbilical arterial vessel

Uterine artery Main arterial vessel originating from the internal iliac artery that supplies the uterus, whose Doppler study allows assessing vascular resistance and the risk of preeclampsia.

Also: uterine perfusion vessels · uterine vascular resistance

ASCUS Bethesda system category that describes the presence of atypical squamous cells in the cervical smear whose meaning and pathological potential is undetermined.

Also: atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance · indeterminate low-grade smear

Asynclitism Deviation of the fetal head during descent through the birth canal so that the sagittal suture is not located in the midline equidistant between the pubis and the sacral promontory.

Also: asymmetrical cephalic descent · deviated sagittal suture

Previous asynclitism Variety of asymmetric fetal head descent in which the anterior parietal bone of the fetus is palpated lower because the sagittal suture approaches the sacral promontory.

Also: Naegele asynclitism · anterior parietal presentation

Posterior asynclitism Asymmetrical cephalic descent in which the posterior parietal bone of the fetus descends first by deviating the sagittal suture towards the pubic symphysis.

Also: Litzmann asynclitism · posterior parietal presentation

Manual uterine aspiration Technique for evacuating the contents of the uterine cavity through the use of a specific vacuum syringe connected to flexible plastic cannulas, safe and less invasive.

Also: vacuum aspiration curettage · uterine evacuation by suction · AMEU

Uterine atony Loss of the capacity for tonic and sustained contraction of the muscle fibers of the myometrium after delivery, which prevents the cessation of hemorrhage from the placental vessels.

Also: postpartum uterine inertia · lack of contraction of the uterus

Asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnancy Presence of more than one hundred thousand colony-forming units per milliliter of the same pathogen in the urine culture of a pregnant woman free of urinary symptoms.

Also: silent gestational urinary colonization · obstetric asymptomatic bacteriuria

Bakri's ball Inflatable silicone medical device that is inserted inside the uterine cavity to exert continuous hydrostatic pressure against the walls of the uterus and stop postpartum hemorrhage.

Also: intrauterine tamponade balloon · hemostatic tamponade device

Bartholinitis Inflammatory process of an acute infectious nature that affects one of the Bartholin glands, causing exquisite pain, edema, local heat and formation of a swollen abscess.

Also: inflammation of the greater vestibular gland · Bartholin's abscess

Betamethasone Corticosteroid of choice with a long half-life administered maternally intramuscularly in a schedule of two doses of twelve milligrams separated by twenty-four hours to accelerate fetal maturation.

Also: betamethasone phosphate acetate · steroidal inducer of fetal maturation

Bethesda Standardized cytological classification system for the interpretation and reporting of findings obtained from cervical Papanicolaou smears.

Also: Bethesda cytological classification · standardized Pap smear report

Diamniotic dichorionic Type of multiple gestation in which each of the developing fetuses has its own individual placenta and its own independent amniotic sac.

Also: bichorionic diamniotic twins · pregnancy with two placentas and two sacs

Endometrial biopsy Directed obtaining or aspiration of a sample of the tissue that internally lines the uterus for subsequent histological and immunohistochemical analysis.

Also: endometrial tissue sampling · endometrial suction biopsy

Chorionic villus biopsy Invasive procedure for early prenatal diagnosis to obtain fragments of placental tissue for genetic and chromosomal study purposes through a transcervical or transabdominal route.

Also: chorial biopsy · chorion villus sampling

Cervical effacement Process of progressive shortening and thinning of the cervix expressed as a percentage that precedes or accompanies the beginning of dilation of the cervix.

Also: shortening of the cervix · effacement of the cervix

Fetal bradycardia Decrease in the basal heart rate of the fetus below one hundred and ten beats per minute persistent for at least ten minutes of monitoring.

Also: baseline decreased fetal heartbeat · sustained basal slowing

Cervical cancer Malignant tumor originating in the epithelium of the uterine cervix, strongly associated with persistent infection of high-risk genotypes of human papillomavirus.

Also: cervical carcinoma · invasive cervical cancer

Endometrial cancer Malignant neoplasia originating at the expense of the mucosa that lines the interior of the uterine cavity, the most common variant of which is the endometrioid type related to hyperestrogenism.

Also: endometrial adenocarcinoma · malignant tumor of the body of the uterus

Ovarian cancer Malignant tumor that affects the tissues of the ovary, encompassing neoplasms of epithelial origin, germ cells or stromal cords.

Also: ovarian malignant neoplasia · malignant ovarian tumor

Vaginal cancer Malignant tumor that affects the tissues of the vaginal canal, usually classified as squamous cell carcinoma secondary to the persistence of the human papillomavirus.

Also: carcinoma of the vagina · primary vaginal neoplasia

Vulvar cancer Malignant neoplasm located in the female external genital organs, with the squamous or epidermoid histological type usually predominating.

Also: vulvar carcinoma · malignant tumor of the vulva

Vaginal candidiasis Opportunistic fungal infection, predominantly Candida albicans, which presents with intense itching, vulvar erythema and thick whitish discharge similar to cottage cheese.

Also: Candida vaginal mycosis · vulvovaginal candidiasis

Basal cardiotocography Non-invasive assessment of fetal well-being that analyzes fetal heart rate and its variations in the absence of voluntary uterine dynamics or oxytocin.

Also: non-stressful test · fetal baseline test without stress · NST

Naboth cells Mucus retention structures formed benignly after the excretory duct of the endocervical glands is obstructed by the advancement of the squamous epithelium.

Also: Nabothian follicle of the cervix · benign cervical mucous cysts

Cervical cerclage Surgical procedure that consists of placing a non-absorbable mechanical suture in the shape of a ring around the cervix to reinforce it and prevent its premature opening.

Also: suture of the cervix · surgical cervical reinforcement

Cervicitis Inflammatory process of the epithelium of the cervix of frequently infectious origin that manifests itself with purulent secretion and friability on contact.

Also: inflammation of the cervix · sexually transmitted cervical infection

Chlamydia trachomatis Obligate intracellular bacteria responsible for the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection that occurs silently with cervicitis and risk of infertility.

Also: chlamydia of the cervix · female genital chlamydia

Endometrial cycle Series of monthly histological modifications that the functional layer of the endometrium undergoes cyclically in response to hormones of ovarian origin.

Also: endometrial menstrual cycle · uterine mucosal phase changes

Cord convolution Presence of one or multiple loops or turns of the umbilical cord wrapped around the neck or other portions of the body of the fetus.

Also: cord circular · fetal coiled cord

Cytoreductive surgery Extensive surgical procedure aimed at removing as much of the visible intra-abdominal tumor mass as possible before or after adjuvant therapy.

Also: surgical cytoreduction · tumor burden reduction surgery

Cystadenocarcinoma Malignant epithelial neoplasia of the ovary that can have a serous or mucinous origin and is characterized by solid areas associated with cysts with internal vegetations.

Also: cystic epithelial ovarian cancer · malignant cystic ovarian tumor

Mucinous cystadenoma Benign neoplasm of the ovarian epithelium that is characterized by septate cavities filled with gelatinous material and mucin rich in glycoproteins.

Also: benign mucinous cyst · multilocular mucinous epithelial tumor

Serous cystadenoma Benign tumor of the ovarian epithelium characterized by the formation of cystic cavities containing clear liquid of a watery consistency.

Also: benign serous cyst · serous ovarian epithelial tumor

Cystocele Prolapse or descent of the posterior wall of the urinary bladder through the anterior wall of the vaginal canal due to weakness of the pubocervical fascial support.

Also: bladder descent · vesicovaginal hernia

Congenital cytomegalovirus Transplacental infection of the fetus caused by cytomegalovirus that can cause serious neurological sequelae, sensorineural hearing loss and brain calcifications.

Also: fetal CMV infection · congenital cytomegalovirosis

Cytotrophoblast Inner cellular epithelial layer of the trophoblast composed of mononucleated cubic cells that serves as germinative support for the growth of the syncytiotrophoblast.

Also: trophoblastic inner layer · anchoring cytotrophoblast

Clitoris Erectile and intensely innervated organ of the female vulva located at the upper end of the labia minora whose only physiological function is to provide sexual pleasure.

Also: vulvar erectile pole · female stimulation organ

Clitoromegaly Hypertrophy or abnormal increase in the volume of the clitoris of usually congenital etiology or induced by the excessive production of androgenic hormones.

Also: increase in clitoral volume · clitoral hypertrophy

Previous colporrhaphy Reconstructive surgical technique aimed at repairing the pubocervical fascia and elevating the anterior wall of the vagina to correct a bladder defect.

Also: anterior vaginal plication · cystocele repair

Posterior colporrhaphy Perineal reconstructive procedure aimed at repairing and plicating the rectovaginal fascia to solve the prolapse of the posterior wall of the vagina.

Also: posterior vaginal plication · rectocele repair

Colposcopy Magnified visualization procedure of the cervix using a stereoscopic microscope to identify cervical cancer precursor lesions using specific stains.

Also: extended colposcopic examination · visualization with colposcope

Maximum column of amniotic fluid Ultrasound method of choice for multiple pregnancies consisting of exclusively measuring the deepest vertical pocket of amniotic fluid free of fetal parts or cord.

Also: maximum vertical pocket · single column of amniotic fluid

Cervical conization Cone-shaped surgical removal of a portion of the cervix that encompasses the transformation zone and preneoplastic lesions for complete histopathological study.

Also: cervical cone · conical resection of the cervix

Braxton Hicks contraction Physiological uterine contraction of a sporadic, painless and non-rhythmic nature that appears from the second trimester, preparing for childbirth without triggering cervical dilation.

Also: false labor contraction · Braxton Hicks preparatory contraction

Umbilical cord Circulatory connection duct that unites the fetus with the placenta, typically provided with a vein and two arteries immersed in a gelatinous support tissue.

Also: fetal circulatory link · umbilical vessel cord

Choriocarcinoma Extremely aggressive malignant epithelial neoplasia of trophoblastic origin that derives from a molar pregnancy, abortion or full-term pregnancy and that presents a great tendency to hematogenous dissemination.

Also: gestational choriocarcinoma · malignant trophoblastic tumor

Corion Vascularized external membrane of the gestational sac that is located adjacent to the uterine decidua and forms the embryonic part of the placenta.

Also: external membrane of the embryo sac · external chorial sheet

Antenatal corticosteroid therapy Administration of systemic glucocorticoids to pregnant women with imminent risk of preterm delivery to induce induced acceleration of lung and organic maturation of the fetus.

Also: fetal lung maturation with corticosteroids · fetal protective corticotherapy

Cervical cryotherapy Focal destruction by freezing at extreme temperatures of abnormal cells or low-grade precursor lesions located in the ectocervix.

Also: cervical freezing · cervical cold thermal ablation

Corpus albicans Whitish scar structure of inactive connective tissue that is generated in the ovary after the regression and functional degeneration of an unstimulated corpus luteum.

Also: white body of the ovary · remnant of luteal scarring

Corpus luteum Temporary endocrine structure formed in the ovary after the ovulatory event that is responsible for the sustained secretion of progesterone essential for the maintenance of early pregnancy.

Also: ovarian yellow body · postovulatory luteinized follicle

Friedman curve Classic graphic model that describes the average speed and expected time of cervical dilation and fetal descent throughout the different stages of labor.

Also: time line of childbirth · classical Friedman curve

Deciduous Layer of the inner lining of the uterine endometrium histologically modified by the process of gestational decidualization that facilitates the settlement and nutrition of the embryo.

Also: endometrium of pregnancy · gestational decidualization tissue

Early deceleration Transitory and symmetrical decrease in fetal heart rate whose loss of speed coincides exactly with the maximum peak of uterine contraction, secondary to compression of the fetal head.

Also: early deceleration · deceleration due to head compression · DIP I

Late deceleration Transient drop in fetal heart rate whose lowest point occurs after the maximum peak of uterine contraction, indicating an alteration of oxygen reserve and uteroplacental insufficiency.

Also: late drop in fetal heartbeat · registered utero-placental insufficiency · DIP II

Variable deceleration Sudden and non-uniform decrease in fetal heart rate that does not maintain a constant relationship with uterine contractions, typically secondary to compression of the umbilical cord.

Also: variable deceleration · cord compression in registration · DIP III

Descent Progressive and continuous displacement of the fetal pole through the maternal pelvic cavity under the influence of contractions and pushing.

Also: progression of the fetal pole · descent of the fetus through the canal

Cervical tear Traumatic injury or rupture of the edges of the cervix that typically occurs accidentally during rapid descent or instrumented extraction of the fetal head.

Also: laceration of the cervix · obstetric cervical rupture

Perineal tear Accidental injury or rupture of the soft tissues of the perineal, vaginal mucosa or anal sphincter produced spontaneously during the expulsive period of childbirth.

Also: perineal obstetric laceration · intrapartum perineal trauma

Cephalopelvic disproportion Physical incompatibility between the size of the fetus's head and the bony dimensions of the maternal pelvic canal that prevents vaginal delivery.

Also: cephalopelvic incompatibility · fetus-pelvis strait disproportion · DCP

Overactive detrusor Bladder dysfunction characterized by involuntary and uncontrolled contractions of the bladder wall muscle during the urinary filling phase.

Also: detrusor overactivity · bladder muscle instability

Dexamethasone Synthetic glucocorticoid used alternatively in a regimen of four maternal intramuscular doses of six milligrams administered every twelve hours to reduce respiratory distress in the newborn.

Also: dexamethasone phosphate · fetal lung maturity steroid

DGP Cellular genetic analysis performed on embryos obtained by in vitro fertilization prior to their uterine transfer to rule out hereditary or numerical anomalies.

Also: preimplantation genetic diagnosis · screening for embryonic anomalies

Vaginal diaphragm Round latex or silicone dome with a flexible edge that is placed on the bottom of the vagina, completely covering the cervix as a barrier.

Also: rubber cervical barrier · contraceptive diaphragm

Cervical dilation Process of gradual opening of the cervical canal measured from zero to ten centimeters, necessary to allow the passage of the fetal presentation during childbirth.

Also: opening of the cervix · cervical dilation

Dinoprostone Synthetic prostaglandin E2 used pharmacologically to induce maturation of the cervix and trigger contractions of the uterus at the induced onset of labor.

Also: prostaglandin E2 · cervical ripening gel

Gonadal dysgenesis Incomplete or abnormal development of gonadal tissues during the embryonic period, replacing normal ovarian tissue with non-functional fibrous cords.

Also: gonad on a streak · malformation of ovarian differentiation

Intrauterine device Small flexible plastic medical device that is introduced through the cervical canal and lodged inside the uterus to prevent embryo implantation.

Also: intrauterine apparatus · uterine cavity contraceptive · IUD

Copper IUD Variant of hormone-free intrauterine device that acts by producing a local spermicidal foreign body inflammatory response mediated by copper ions.

Also: non-hormonal copper intrauterine device · copper contraceptive t

Levonorgestrel IUD Intrauterine device that locally and continuously releases small daily doses of progestogen, inducing atrophy of the endometrium and thickening of the cervical mucus.

Also: intrauterine levonorgestrel releasing system · intrauterine hormonal device

Fetal Doppler Ultrasound technique applied in obstetrics that measures the speed and direction of flow of the blood vessels of the fetus and the uteroplacental circulation to assess its state of perfusion.

Also: fetal flow ultrasound · gestational Doppler velocimetry

Drospirenone Synthetic progestogen derived from spironolactone that has contraceptive properties combined with beneficial antimineralocorticoid and antiandrogenic effects.

Also: gestagen with antimineralocorticoid action · synthetic antiandrogenic progestogen

Ductus venosus Fetal bypass vessel that directly communicates the umbilical vein with the inferior vena cava, whose Doppler flow wave reflects the hemodynamic status and right heart function.

Also: Arancio venous duct · ductus Doppler flow

Duration of contraction Time interval elapsed from the beginning of the rise in uterine pressure above the basal tone until its return to the baseline.

Also: uterine contractile time · duration of contractile effort

Morphological ultrasound Detailed and systematic ultrasound examination usually performed between weeks twenty and twenty-two of gestation aimed at evaluating the anatomy of the fetus and ruling out structural malformations.

Also: second trimester ultrasound · fetal anatomical ultrasound

Cervical ectopia Presence of the endocervical cylindrical columnar epithelium on the external surface of the cervix or ectocervix, prone to easy bleeding when rubbed.

Also: cervical ectropion · glandular eversion of the cervix

Advanced maternal age Condition of the pregnant woman thirty-five years of age or older at the estimated time of delivery, statistically associated with a greater risk of anomalies and complications of obstetric evolution.

Also: elderly pregnancy · pregnancy in mature age

Teen pregnancy Pregnancy that occurs in young women between ten and nineteen years of age, considered at risk due to biological immaturity and biopsychosocial factors.

Also: pregnancy in adolescence · youthful gestation

Pregnancy of unknown location Initial pregnancy with a positive immunological test in blood or urine in which transvaginal ultrasound signs of the gestational sac cannot be visualized.

Also: initial hidden pregnancy · pregnancy of undetermined site · ELD

ectopic pregnancy Anomalous gestation in which the fertilized egg implants and develops in a tissue or organ located outside the uterine endometrial cavity.

Also: extrauterine gestation · pregnancy outside the womb

Molar pregnancy Pregnancy alteration characterized by abnormal proliferation and cystic degeneration of the chorionic villi of the placenta that occurs without viable embryonic development.

Also: hydatidiform mole · benign trophoblastic disease

Multiple pregnancy Pregnancy characterized by the simultaneous development of two or more embryos or fetuses within the maternal uterine cavity.

Also: multiple gestation · twin pregnancy

Post-term pregnancy Pregnancy that lasts longer than forty-two complete weeks counted from the first day of the last period.

Also: prolonged pregnancy · chronologically prolonged gestation

Uterine artery embolization Interventional radiology procedure that consists of the introduction of microspheres into the uterine arteries to obstruct flow and stop obstetric or gynecological hemorrhages.

Also: occlusion due to catheterization of uterine vessels · selective pelvic embolization

Embryoreduction Selective procedure that reduces the number of embryos in a high-order multiple pregnancy to reduce the associated serious obstetric and perinatal risks.

Also: directed embryonic reduction · multifetal selective termination

Engagement Passage of the largest diameter of the fetal presentation through the upper narrow of the maternal pelvis, indicating that the fetal pole has descended fixedly in the pelvis.

Also: presentation lace · fetal cephalic fixation

Proliferative endometrium Histological state of the internal uterine lining that responds exclusively to estrogenic stimulation in the first half of the menstrual cycle showing abundant mitosis.

Also: proliferative phase of the endometrium · estrogenic endometrium

Secretory endometrium Endometrial histological state characterized by the presence of tortuous glands rich in glycogen under the direct influence of progesterone after ovulation.

Also: endometrial luteal phase · progestational endometrium

Endometrioma Ovarian cyst filled with old, thick, dark brown blood content, originating as a pelvic manifestation of ovarian endometriosis.

Also: chocolate cyst · ovarian endometrioma

Endometriosis Presence of endometrial glandular tissue and functionally active stroma outside the uterine cavity, mainly in organs of the pelvic cavity and peritoneum.

Also: extrauterine endometriotic foci · ectopic endometrial implantation

Endometritis Inflammatory process usually of bacterial origin that affects the internal lining of the uterus and that frequently appears as an infectious complication after childbirth or intrauterine manipulations.

Also: endometrial infection · inflammation of the uterine mucosa

Pelvic inflammatory disease Ascending bacterial infection that affects the female upper genital tract including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, usually derived from sexually transmitted pathogens.

Also: ascending pelvic infection · inflammation of upper pelvic organs · EIP

Gestational trophoblastic disease Spectrum of abnormal proliferative disorders originating in the trophoblastic cells of the placenta that encompasses the hydatidiform mole and persistent or metastatic trophoblastic neoplasms.

Also: gestational trophoblastic proliferation · placental tumor pathology

Enterocele Descent of a peritoneal sac containing loops of small intestine or omentum into the vaginal canal through the rectovaginal space of Douglas.

Also: enterocele hernia · Douglas cul-de-sac prolapse

Misses Painful and intermittent uterine contractions that occur physiologically in the first days of postpartum aimed at ensuring hemostasis and reduction of the organ.

Also: postpartum contraction pains · trouble pains

Episiotomy Surgical incision made in the perineal area during the expulsive period of childbirth to expand the diameter of the soft canal and avoid spontaneous tears that are difficult to reconstruct.

Also: perineal cut · section of the perineum

Median episiotomy Perineal surgical incision made in the posterior midline from the vulvar commissure towards the external anal sphincter.

Also: central perineal cut · middle section of the perineum

Mediolateral episiotomy Incision made obliquely angled starting from the vulvar fork lateralized about forty-five degrees with respect to the midline to reduce the risk of anal injury.

Also: mediolateral perineal cut · protective perineal oblique section

Intervillous space Placental lacunar cavity filled with blood of maternal origin in which the chorionic villi float directly to facilitate gas and nutrient exchange.

Also: placental blood gap · maternal-fetal exchange space

Thierry's spatulas Obstetric instrument composed of two independent metal branches that act as parallel protective levers of the soft canal without articulating with each other, facilitating fetal extraction.

Also: obstetric spatulas · cephalic sliding levers

Speculoscopy Gynecological examination through the use of a speculum that allows the vaginal walls to be kept separated to directly visualize the cervix and the bottom of the vaginal sac.

Also: speculum examination · direct vaginal visualization

De Lee Stations Numeric scale centered on the maternal sciatic spines expressed in centimeters that measures the height of the fetal presentation during labor.

Also: De Lee scale · centimeter cephalic engagement level

Sterility Absolute or intrinsic impossibility of achieving fertilization of the egg by the sperm after a minimum period of one year of active search for pregnancy.

Also: inability to conceive · couple sterility

Conjugated estrogens Mixture of purified estrogens obtained from natural or synthetic sources indicated for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms of moderate to severe intensity.

Also: purified equine estrogens · conjugated estrogen therapy

Etonogestrel Third-generation active progestogen used in contraceptive devices such as the subdermal implant or the vaginal ring due to its high anovulatory potency.

Also: third generation synthetic gestagen · active ingredient of the hormonal implant

Expulsion Birth or complete exit of the fetal body from inside the maternal birth canal after the successive detachment of the anterior and posterior shoulders.

Also: complete birth of the fetus · definitive departure of the newborn

Expulsive Second stage of labor that begins once the dilation of the cervix is completed and ends with the birth and complete delivery of the newborn.

Also: expulsive period of labor · second stage of labor

Fetal extension Passive deflection performed by the fetal head using the symphysis pubis as a support point or hypomoclion to emerge through the vulvar introitus.

Also: detachment due to head extension · head external deflection movement

Milky ejection Physiological process of active milk release from the mammary alveoli towards the lactiferous sinuses mediated by the contraction of myoepithelial cells under the influence of oxytocin.

Also: ejection reflex · lower milk flow

Active phase of labor Period of the first stage of labor characterized by rhythmic and intense contractions associated with a rapid and progressive dilation of the cervix starting at five centimeters.

Also: accelerated dilation period · active phase of the first stage of labor

Follicular phase Period of the dynamics of the menstrual cycle that runs from the first day of menstruation to ovulation, characterized by the stimulation of FSH and follicular growth.

Also: estrogenic phase of the cycle · ovarian proliferative period

Latent phase of labor Initial period of the first stage of labor characterized by irregular contractions and slow cervical changes until reaching an average dilation of five centimeters.

Also: initial dilation period · prodromal phase of labor

Luteal phase Period after ovulation that lasts an average of fourteen days, during which glandular secretion induced by progesterone produced by the corpus luteum predominates.

Also: progestational phase of the cycle · yellow body period

In vitro fertilization Highly complex assisted reproduction technique that consists of the union of the oocyte with the sperm in an artificial medium outside the maternal body.

Also: fertilization in the laboratory · extracorporeal fertilization · IVF

Ovarian fibroma Benign tumor of the gonadal stroma with dense and fibrous characteristics that represents the most common benign solid neoplasm of the ovary, and may be associated with Meigs syndrome.

Also: ovarian fibroma · dense fibrous stromal tumor

Physiology of childbirth Set of coordinated mechanical, dynamic, hormonal and neuroendocrine phenomena that interact to trigger and guide the expulsion of the fetus and the annexes through the genital canal.

Also: mechanisms of labor · physiology of obstetric expulsion

Fetal flexion Passive movement by which the head of the fetus bends over the chest when it hits the resistant structures of the pelvis, offering the suboccipitobregmatic diameter.

Also: head flexion of accommodation · passive head flexion

Folliculogenesis Dynamic process of hormonally regulated ovarian follicular maturation and growth that occurs from a primordial follicle to the achievement of a mature Graafian follicle.

Also: ovarian follicular maturation · development of primordial follicles

Forceps Metal obstetric instrument in the shape of an articulated clamp composed of two branches that are applied to the sides of the fetal head to traction and rotate during birth.

Also: head traction forceps · metallic obstetric forceps

Phosphatidylglycerol Phospholipid component of pulmonary surfactant whose detectable presence in amniotic fluid is indicative of advanced fetal lung maturation.

Also: alveolar maturity phospholipid · mature surfactant marker

Frequency of contractions Total number of uterine contractions systematically counted in a ten-minute interval of obstetric recording.

Also: uterine contractile regularity · number of contractions per time

Funiculocentesis Invasive prenatal diagnosis technique that consists of ultrasound-guided puncture of a blood vessel in the umbilical cord to directly obtain blood from the fetus.

Also: cordocentesis · umbilical vessel puncture

Galacctocele Benign cystic lesion of the mammary gland filled with milky or thick content that originates from focal obstruction of a milk duct.

Also: milk retention cyst · obstructed galactophore cyst

Anti-D gamma globulin Specific immunoglobulin administered to unsensitized Rh-negative pregnant women to prevent the production of maternal antibodies against Rh-positive fetal red blood cells.

Also: anti-D prophylaxis · Rh negative preventive serum

Wharton Jelly Mucoid connective tissue rich in glycosaminoglycans that elastically covers and protects the blood vessels of the umbilical cord against extrinsic compression.

Also: umbilical support substance · cord protector mucopolysaccharides

Deed Total number of clinically confirmed pregnancies that a woman has had throughout her reproductive life, regardless of the term or evolution of the pregnancy.

Also: number of pregnancies · pregnancy history

Bartholino's gland Paired glandular structure located in the posterior third of the vulvar labia majora responsible for secreting lubricating mucus during sexual arousal.

Also: greater vestibular gland of the vulva · Bartholin's gland

Skene's gland Periurethral paired glandular structure located anteriorly in the vulvar introitus that secretes a lubricating fluid and represents the analogue of the male prostate.

Also: periurethral minor vestibular gland · Skene's paraurethral gland

Nipple cracks Painful and bleeding fissures in the epidermis of the nipple usually caused by inadequate latch or abnormal friction exerted by the newborn's mouth during sucking.

Also: nipple fissures · lactating areolar cracks

Vulvar hematoma Localized collection or accumulation of blood in the subcutaneous cellular tissue of the vulva due to the rupture of blood vessels in the soft canal after birth trauma.

Also: vulvar blood collection · postpartum perineal blood accumulation

Hydrops fetalis Pathological accumulation of serous fluid in two or more extravascular compartments or body cavities of the fetus, associated with severe anemia or cardiac dysfunction.

Also: hydrops fetalis · generalized fetal edema

Hymen Fine elastic connective tissue membrane provided with vessels that partially covers the external entrance to the vaginal cavity in pre-adolescent women.

Also: hymenal fold · vaginal introitus membrane

Imperforate hymen Congenital malformation consisting of complete membranous obstruction without an opening of the lumen of the vaginal introitus that presents with cryptomenorrhea and cyclical pelvic pain.

Also: complete hymenal obstruction · hymen without anatomical perforation

Hyperandrogenism Clinical or biochemical condition characterized by an excess in the production of male hormones or an exaggerated response of target tissues to androgens in women.

Also: excess androgens · female hormonal masculinization

Hyperemesis gravidarum Presence of persistent and severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy leading to dehydration, weight loss greater than five percent, and electrolyte imbalance with ketonuria.

Also: uncontrollable vomiting of pregnancy · severe gestational emesis

Obstetric hysterectomy Complete or subtotal surgical removal of the uterus performed immediately after childbirth or cesarean section as an emergency measure in the event of massive and uncontrollable postpartum hemorrhages.

Also: postpartum emergency hysterectomy · obstetric uterine removal

Subtotal hysterectomy Intervention consisting of the exclusive resection of the body of the uterus, leaving the cervix intact within the vaginal vault.

Also: supracervical hysterectomy · partial womb removal

Total hysterectomy Surgical procedure that consists of the complete removal of the uterus, including both the uterine body and the entire neck or cervix.

Also: complete uterine removal · total matrix removal

Vaginal hysterectomy Complete surgical removal of the uterus performed through the vaginal canal without the need to make visible incisions in the abdominal wall.

Also: transvaginal uterine removal · vaginal womb removal

Hysterocele Descending displacement of the body and cervix along the axis of the vaginal canal secondary to the laxity of the uterosacral and cardinal supporting ligaments.

Also: uterine descent · matrix drop

Hysterorrhaphy Surgical suture of the incision or cut made in the uterus during a cesarean section or after a traumatic rupture of the organ.

Also: suture of the uterine wall · myometriotomy repair

Hysterosalpingography Contrasted radiographic study of the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes that is used to evaluate the internal uterine anatomy and tubal patency.

Also: x-ray of the womb and tubes · fallopian tube patency test · uterosalpingography · x-ray of uterus and tubes · hysterography

Hysteroscopy Direct endoscopic visualization of the internal cavity of the uterus by introducing a lens through the cervical canal, allowing the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine anomalies.

Also: uterine endoscopy · visualization of the endometrial cavity

Anti-Müllerian hormone Glycoprotein secreted by the granulosa cells of the preantral and antral ovarian follicles, whose serum levels faithfully reflect the size of the residual follicular pool.

Also: ovarian reserve hormone · serum oocyte reserve indicator · AMH

HSIL High-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion that identifies cytological changes of moderate or severe dysplasia with a significant potential for progression to invasive cancer.

Also: high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion · moderate to severe dysplasia

Fetal nasal bone Bone structure of the face of the fetus whose ultrasound visualization or absence in the first trimester is used as a complementary screening marker for Down syndrome.

Also: presence of nasal bones · ultrasound nasal bone assessment

ICSI Variant of in vitro fertilization that consists of the direct and directed microinjection of a single selected sperm into the cytoplasm of the mature oocyte.

Also: intracytoplasmic sperm injection · sperm microinjection

Subdermal implant Flexible continuous hormonal release rod that is inserted under the skin of the woman's arm providing high long-term contraceptive effectiveness.

Also: subcutaneous implant contraceptive · subdermal hormonal rod

Amniotic fluid index Semi-quantitative ultrasound method that estimates the volume of amniotic fluid by adding the depth of the largest vertical column measured in each of the four uterine quadrants.

Also: ILA measurement · Phelan index · AFI

Pulsatility index Doppler hemodynamic parameter derived from the difference between the maximum systolic velocity and the minimum diastolic velocity divided by the average velocity of the cardiac cycle.

Also: IP Doppler · measurement of vascular pulsatile resistance · Gosling index · Doppler pulsatility

Stamina index Doppler velocimetry parameter expressed as the difference between the peak systolic and the end-diastolic flow divided by the maximum velocity in systole.

Also: IR Doppler · Pourcelot index · RI · Doppler vascular resistance

Induction of labor Intentional initiation of uterine contractions before the spontaneous onset of labor by medical, mechanical or pharmacological methods in order to achieve birth.

Also: provocation of childbirth · stimulation of labor

Urinary infection during pregnancy Colonization and multiplication of pathogenic microorganisms in the urinary tract of the pregnant woman, favored by the hormonal and mechanical changes typical of pregnancy.

Also: gestational infectious uropathy · urinary tract infection during pregnancy

Infertility Inability to achieve a viable full-term pregnancy after twelve months or more of regular unprotected sexual relations or due to recurrent pregnancy loss.

Also: subfertility · difficulty of viable conception

Inhibition of lactation Suppression of the reflex for the production or ejection of breast milk through the use of specific drugs or compressive physical measures applied to the breasts.

Also: stopping milk letdown · suppression of milk secretion

Artificial insemination Low-complexity assisted reproduction technique consisting of directly depositing a sample of trained semen into the maternal uterine cavity coinciding with the ovulatory moment.

Also: intrauterine insemination · artificial semen deposit

Velomentous insertion Anomaly of the umbilical cord in which blood vessels run through the amniotic membranes before reaching the edge of the placental disc, leaving them exposed to compression or tearing.

Also: membranous insertion of the cord · unprotected umbilical vessels

Primary ovarian insufficiency Loss of follicular function and cessation of ovarian activity before reaching forty years of age, which causes amenorrhea and high levels of gonadotropins.

Also: premature ovarian failure · pathological premature menopause

Contraction intensity Amplitude or maximum peak of hydrostatic pressure reached by the myometrium during the acme of a uterine contraction expressed in millimeters of mercury.

Also: contraction force · maximum peak myometrial pressure

Uterine inversion Serious obstetric complication in which the fundus of the uterus invaginates on itself and prolapses into the interior of the vaginal cavity or to the exterior of the vulvar introitus.

Also: postpartum inverted uterus · invagination of the uterine fundus

Uterine involution Physiological process of progressive reduction in the size of the uterus that occurs in the weeks after birth to return to the state prior to pregnancy.

Also: return of uterus size · postpartum womb involution

Rh isoimmunization Maternal immune response characterized by the production of antibodies against erythrocyte antigens of the Rh group present in the red blood cells of the fetus.

Also: maternal erythrocyte alloimmunization · sensitization to the Rh factor

Labiaplasty Plastic and reconstructive surgery procedure aimed at reducing the size or correcting marked asymmetries of the labia minora or labia majora of the vulva.

Also: corrective nymphoplasty · vulvar surgical remodeling

Labia majora Prominent external skin folds provided with hair follicles that form the vulvar lateral limit, protecting the structures of the vaginal introitus.

Also: external vulvar folds · perineal labia majora

Labia minora Fine folds of mucosal skin tissue free of hair follicles located internally with respect to the labia majora that directly delimit the vaginal vestibule.

Also: vulvar nymphs · inner vaginal lips

Breastfeeding Feeding the infant exclusively with milk secreted by the mother's mammary glands during the first months of life to guarantee adequate immune development.

Also: natural lactation · breastfeeding

Lactogenesis I Phase of functional differentiation of the mammary gland that begins in mid-pregnancy characterized by the initial capacity for limited colostrum synthesis.

Also: colostrogenic phase · initial breast preparation

Lactogenesis II Initial phase of the copious secretion of mature milk characterized by the sudden increase in milk volume that occurs between thirty-six and seventy-two hours postpartum after the drop in progesterone.

Also: letting down of milk · beginning of true lactogenesis

Lactogenesis III Maintenance phase of established milk secretion governed exclusively by the sucking stimulation of the infant and the effective emptying of the breasts.

Also: galactopoiesis · maintenance of milk secretion

Cord Laterocidence Anomalous position in which the umbilical cord is located lateral to the fetal presentation without exceeding the inferior strait.

Also: low lateral drawstring position · lateral slip of umbilical vessels

LEEP Loop electrosurgical excision procedure that selectively and controlledly removes abnormal tissue from the cervix using high-frequency energy.

Also: diathermic snare resection of the cervix · cervical electrosurgical excision

Instrumental curettage Evacuation of remains of an interrupted pregnancy using rigid metal curettes that directly scrape the myometrium under clinical control.

Also: metallic cavity curettage · uterine instrumental scraping

Uterine curettage Procedure that consists of mechanical scraping of the internal walls of the uterine cavity with a curette or curette in order to extract tissue remains.

Also: instrumental uterine curettage · scraping of endometrial cavity

Uterine artery ligation Surgical technique that consists of occluding the arterial vessels that irrigate the uterus to selectively reduce pelvic blood flow in the event of hemorrhage.

Also: occlusion of uterine vessels · hemostatic ligation of the uterine artery

Tubal ligation Surgical procedure for permanent female sterilization that consists of sectioning, stapling or cauterizing both fallopian tubes to physically interrupt the passage of gametes.

Also: bilateral tubal occlusion · female surgical sterilization

Scamocylindrical line Anatomical transition zone of the cervix where the stratified squamous epithelium of the ectocervix closely joins with the simple columnar epithelium of the endocervix.

Also: squamocolumnar junction of the cervix · cervical epithelial boundary

for-aortic lymphadenectomy Removal of the lymphatic chain that anatomically surrounds the path of the abdominal aorta from the renal vessels to the bifurcation of the iliac vessels.

Also: for-aortic retroperitoneal dissection · for-aortic lymph node dissection

Pelvic lymphadenectomy Systematic and programmed surgical resection of the lymph nodes and vessels located along the external, internal and common iliac arteries.

Also: lymphatic emptying of the pelvis · pelvic lymphatic dissection

Vulvar lichen sclerosus Chronic inflammatory dermatopathy of the vulvar skin that presents with persistent pruritus, marked epidermal atrophy, whitish plaques with a parchment-like appearance and a narrowed introitus.

Also: white vulvar dystrophy · scleroatrophic lichen of the vulva

Amniotic fluid Dynamic fluid that fills the cavity of the amniotic sac, whose main function is to physically protect the fetus, allow its mobility and promote lung development.

Also: gestational amniotic fluid · liquid from the bag of waters

Gestational listeriosis Food-borne infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes in pregnant women that can cause a non-specific febrile condition with a serious risk of abortion or fetal sepsis.

Also: listeria in pregnancy · gestational listeria infection

Cervical length Transvaginal ultrasound measurement of the distance between the internal and external cervical os, used to predict the risk of spontaneous preterm birth.

Also: cervix length · ultrasound cervicometry

LSIL Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion of the Bethesda classification that denotes changes associated with productive human papillomavirus infection and mild dysplasia.

Also: low-grade squamous lesion · changes due to HPV and mild dysplasia

Luteogenesis Postovulatory cellular transformation process of the ruptured follicle that gives rise to the corpus luteum that actively produces progesterone under the influence of luteinizing hormone.

Also: yellow body formation · luteinization of the residual follicle

Cervical ripening Process of softening, shortening and initial dilation of the cervix mediated by changes in collagen, induced pharmacologically or mechanically to facilitate childbirth.

Also: preparation of the cervix · cervical conditioning

Müllerian malformation Spectrum of genetic and anatomical anomalies derived from failure of fusion, development or resorption of the paramesonephric Müllerian ducts.

Also: Müllerian duct anomaly · congenital defect of the internal reproductive tract

Brandt-Andrews maneuver Obstetric technique that consists of performing gentle and controlled traction of the umbilical cord while exerting suprapubic abdominal counterpressure on the uterine body to prevent its inversion.

Also: controlled cord traction with counterpressure · safe lighting maneuver

Credé maneuver Manual expression technique consisting of uniformly pressing the bottom of the uterus through the pregnant woman's abdomen to force the placenta to detach.

Also: Credé fundic pressure · forced placental abruption due to compression

Kristeller maneuver Proscribed or controversial application of direct manual pressure on the maternal uterine fundus during the expulsive period with the intention of accelerating the birth of the fetus.

Also: expression of the uterine fundus · manual fundal thrust

Leopold's maneuver Series of four systematic examinations using abdominal palpation of the pregnant woman to determine fetal statics that include situation, presentation, position and degree of engagement.

Also: abdominal obstetric palpation · fetal static scan

McRoberts maneuver Emergency procedure used in the event of shoulder dystocia consisting of the flexion and hyperabduction of the mother's legs over her own abdomen to modify the pelvic angle.

Also: hyperflexion of maternal limbs · opening of the obstetric pelvic angle

Ritgen maneuver Manual obstetric technique that exerts gentle pressure on the maternal posterior perineum and the fetal chin to control the speed of head deflection during head detachment.

Also: modified Ritgen maneuver · controlled head deflection

Woods maneuver Fetal rotation procedure that consists of applying pressure on the anterior surface of the fetal posterior shoulder to rotate it one hundred and eighty degrees, untrapping the anterior shoulder.

Also: Woods corkscrew maneuver · rotational rotation of the fetal posterior shoulder

Zavanelli maneuver Extremely urgent procedure consisting of reintroducing the head of the fetus into the uterine cavity to enable the immediate resolution of birth by cesarean section in the event of an insurmountable dystocia.

Also: fetal cephalic repositioning · Zavanelli cephalic reversal maneuver

Uterine mechanics Physiological and quantitative study of myometrial contractile forces represented by the frequency, intensity, basal tone and duration of uterine dynamics.

Also: uterine dynamics of labor · myometrial contractile kinetics

Birth mechanism Sequence of passive movements that the fetus performs in a coordinated manner during its descent to adapt its smaller diameters to those of the maternal pelvis.

Also: cardinal movements of childbirth · fetal accommodation of the birth canal

Krause method Mechanical cervical ripening procedure that consists of introducing a probe with an inflatable balloon into the cervical canal to exert direct pressure on the internal os.

Also: transcervical balloon induction · mechanical dilation of the cervix

CLOTHING Method In vitro fertilization procedure adapted for couples of women in which one of them provides the oocytes and the other carries out the pregnancy.

Also: reception of oocytes from the couple · gynecological shared motherhood

Methotrexate Folic acid antagonist antimetabolite drug used under strict medical protocol for the conservative medical treatment of unruptured and stable ectopic pregnancy.

Also: chemotherapeutic for ectopic · gestational folate antagonist

Fetal blood microtomy Selective collection of a capillary blood sample from the scalp of the fetus during labor to perform a direct assessment of pH or lactate and rule out acidosis.

Also: Fetal scalp pH · intrapartum fetal capillary blood gas analysis

Uterine myoma Benign neoplasm of the uterine smooth muscle originating at the expense of the muscle fibers of the myometrium, classified according to its location as submucosal, intramural or subserous.

Also: womb leiomyoma · uterine fibroma

Uterine myomatosis Presence of multiple benign tumor formations composed of smooth and fibrous muscle tissue distributed in the different layers of the uterine wall.

Also: multiple uterine fibromatosis · multiple matrix leiomyomas

Myomectomy Surgical intervention consisting of the exclusive removal of uterine fibroids, respecting the anatomical integrity of the uterine body to preserve fertility.

Also: fibroid removal · conservative resection of fibroids

Misoprostol Synthetic analogue of prostaglandin E1 used vaginally, orally or sublingually for the ripening of the cervix, the induction of labor or the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage.

Also: prostaglandin E1 · prostaglandin analogue for induction

Contraction monitoring Continuous monitoring of uterine dynamics using external toco-dynamometry or internal intrauterine pressure transducers to assess the progression of labor.

Also: uterine dynamics record · control of uterine contractions

Fetal monitoring Systematic evaluation of fetal well-being by clinical or technological methods that allows detecting early signs of compromised oxygenation during pregnancy or childbirth.

Also: continuous fetal monitoring · intrapartum surveillance

Diamniotic monochorionic Type of twin pregnancy that shares a single placenta but has two individual amniotic sacs separated by a thin intertwin membrane.

Also: monochorionic diamniotic twins · pregnancy with single placenta and two sacs

Monochorionic monoamniotic Type of high-risk twin pregnancy in which both fetuses share a single common placenta and develop within a single amniotic cavity without separation.

Also: pouch twins and single placenta · monochorionic monoamniotic gestation

Multigesture Woman who has been pregnant two or more times during her reproductive life.

Also: history of multiple pregnancies · potential multiparous pregnant woman

Mycoplasma genitalium Opportunistic bacteria lacking a cell wall that causes cervicitis, urethritis and pelvic inflammatory disease refractory to common antibiotics.

Also: mycoplasma of female genital tract · atypical vaginal pathogen

Neisseria gonorrhoeae Gram-negative diplococcus that produces gonorrhea, manifesting in women with mucopurulent cervicitis, urethritis or acute pelvic inflammatory disease.

Also: sexually transmitted gonococcus · neisseria of the genital tract

Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Non-invasive squamous precursor lesion limited to the epithelium of the cervix characterized by variable degrees of cellular atypia and disorganization of maturation.

Also: precursor cervical dysplasia · cervical epithelial dysplasia · NIC

Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia Dysplastic alterations located within the squamous epithelium of the vaginal canal that do not overcome the barrier of the lamina propria or basement membrane.

Also: vaginal dysplasia · squamous precursor vaginal lesion · VAIN

Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia Changes in cellular atypia and loss of histological architecture that occur within the thickness of the vulvar epithelium prior to invasion of the basement membrane.

Also: vulvar intraepithelial dysplasia · vulvar precursor lesion · VIN

Fetal neuroprotection Clinical prevention strategy that consists of administering intravenous magnesium sulfate to the mother with imminent preterm labor to reduce the risk of cerebral palsy in the newborn.

Also: neurological protection of the fetus · neonatal cerebral palsy prophylaxis

Fake cord knot Nodular accumulation of Wharton's gelatin or redundancy of the umbilical vessels folded in on themselves that lacks pathological significance.

Also: false cord knotting · localized umbilical vascular bulging

Real cord knot True loop formed in the path of the umbilical cord vessels due to the exaggerated mobility of the fetus that can seriously compromise the umbilical circulation.

Also: real knotting of cord glasses · true circulatory knot

Nuligesta Woman who has never become pregnant.

Also: history of zero pregnancies · woman without previous pregnancies

Ophorectomy Procedure consisting of the surgical removal of one or both ovaries laparoscopically or through open surgery.

Also: ovariotomy · ovary removal

Omentectomy Complete or partial surgical removal of the omentum or greater omentum, performed in a protocolized manner in surgery for gynecological tumors such as ovarian cancer.

Also: removal of the omentum · omental excision

Egg donation Assisted reproduction treatment that uses oocytes from a healthy donor to be fertilized and implanted in the uterus of the recipient woman who has failed ovarian function.

Also: egg donation · reception of donated oocytes

To Number of deliveries or births that have reached a viable gestational age that a woman has completed, regardless of whether the newborn was born alive or dead.

Also: birth history · cumulative parity

Transdermal patch Medicated adhesive matrix that is applied to the skin, transdermally releasing systemically absorbed estrogens and progestogens to prevent pregnancy.

Also: weekly contraceptive patch · hormonal transdermal device

Instrumented birth Termination of pregnancy vaginally through the use of specific mechanical instruments that help the extraction of the fetal head during the expulsion period.

Also: instrumental assisted birth · application of forceps or suction cup

Partogram Standardized graphic representation of the clinical evolution of labor that visually records cervical dilation, fetal descent and maternal-fetal signs.

Also: birth evolution graph · visual recording of labor

Parvovirus B19 in pregnancy Gestational viral infection that can cause severe fetal anemia due to direct lysis of erythrocyte precursors leading to heart failure and non-immune hydrops.

Also: gestational erythrovirus B19 infection · fetal parvovirus

Pelvimetry Radiological, clinical or ultrasound measurement of the diameters of the bony birth canal to assess the viability of the fetus passing through the maternal pelvis.

Also: measurement of pelvic diameters · assessment of the bone canal

Narrow pelvis Reduction of maternal pelvic bone diameters below the limits necessary to allow safe passage of the fetus during labor at term.

Also: bony pelvic stricture · decreased obstetric bone canal

Gestational pemphigoid Bullous dermatosis of autoimmune etiology specific to pregnancy that manifests with intense pruritus, urticarial papules and vesicles located preferably in the periumbilical region.

Also: herpes gestationis · gestational bullous eruption

Fetal biophysical profile Combined ultrasound and cardiotocographic evaluation of five fetal variables that include cardiac reactivity, respiratory movements, body movements, muscle tone and amniotic fluid volume.

Also: biophysical score of the fetus · Manning fetal well-being profile

Pessary Flexible and inert mechanical support device that is introduced into the vaginal canal to temporarily correct pelvic static defects and pelvic organ prolapses.

Also: mechanical vaginal support · prolapse containment ring

Arabin's Pessary Flexible dome-shaped silicone device that is inserted into the vagina to support and verticalize the cervix, reducing pressure on the internal os.

Also: silicone cervical pessary · cervical mechanical support

Peak MCA systolic velocity Doppler measurement of flow in the fetal middle cerebral artery whose elevated values above 1.5 multiples of the median allow the non-invasive diagnosis of fetal anemia.

Also: maximum MCA systolic velocity · cerebral flow velocity for anemia

Base plate Placenta limiting structure that forms the maternal side of the placenta directly attached to the uterine decidua basalis.

Also: maternal side of the placenta · decidual anchoring plate

Chorionic plate Placental structure that internally delimits the fetal side of the placenta, from which the cord vessels and the initial branched villi emerge.

Also: fetal side of the placenta · internal chorionic plate

Hodge's plans System of four imaginary parallel lines drawn through the maternal bony pelvis that is used clinically to determine the degree of descent of the fetal presentation.

Also: Hodge pelvic levels · fetal engagement planes

Mammary plethora Painful and tense overfilling of the mammary glands secondary to vascular congestion combined with excessive milk accumulation during the first days postpartum.

Also: plethora of milk · initial milk congestion

Polisistolia Marked increase in the frequency of uterine contractions above the normal physiological limits established during active labor.

Also: very frequent uterine dynamics · quantitative hypersystole

Fetal position Relationship that maintains a reference point of fetal presentation with the right or left side of the maternal pelvis.

Also: presentation orientation · dorso-pelvic relationship

Face presentation Extreme variety of fetal head deflection in which the chin, mouth and nose of the fetus are offered directly into the birth canal during the engagement phase.

Also: maximum deflection attitude · cephalic pole of face

Front presentation Variety of moderately deflected cephalic presentation in which the forehead of the fetus is offered as the initial point of contact with the pelvic inlet.

Also: intermediate deflection attitude · cephalic pole from the front

Fetal presentation Part of the fetus that is offered directly to the upper strait of the maternal pelvis, which is capable of triggering a birth mechanism and which occupies said strait completely.

Also: presenting fetal pole · presentation part

Breech presentation Fetal situation in which the caudal pole of the fetus composed of the buttocks, thighs or feet is offered directly to the upper narrow of the maternal pelvis.

Also: breech presentation · presenting caudal pole

Fertility preservation Set of medical techniques aimed at safeguarding and preserving reproductive capacity by freezing gametes or gonadal tissue before aggressive treatments.

Also: preservation of fertility · preventive reproductive maintenance

Female condom Polyurethane or nitrile sheath equipped with two flexible rings at the ends that are inserted into the vagina to cover it and prevent contact with semen and fluids.

Also: female condom · latex vaginal barrier

Male condom Thin latex or polyurethane cover that is placed over the erect penis before intercourse to act as a physical barrier against sperm and infectious agents.

Also: male condom · male prophylactic

Uterine basal pressure Tone or minimum level of muscle tension that constantly maintains the uterus between the end of one contraction and the beginning of the next.

Also: base uterine tone · basal myometrial pressure

Suprapubic pressure Application of descending manual force just above the maternal symphysis pubis aimed at displacing the trapped fetal anterior shoulder during the management of dystocia.

Also: suprapubic compression · manual shoulder support

Primigesta Woman who is having her first confirmed pregnancy.

Also: first-time pregnant woman · pregnant woman for the first time

Primiparous Woman who has given birth to a viable newborn only once.

Also: mother of a single birth · woman of parity one

Cord origin Pathological descent of the umbilical cord below the presenting part of the fetus once the spontaneous rupture of the ovular membranes has occurred.

Also: unprotected cord prolapse · cord exit with broken membranes

Cord procubitus Displacement of the umbilical cord in front of the fetal presentation with the ovular membranes intact and without exceeding the vaginal introitus.

Also: umbilical cord in front of the fetus · low drawstring position with full bag

Micronized progesterone Natural progesterone modified by micronization to improve its bioavailability orally or vaginally, used to support the luteal phase or prevent abortion.

Also: micronized natural progesterone · gestational progesterone support

Clements test Indirect biophysical assessment test of the lung maturity of the fetus that evaluates the stability of the bubbles generated after shaking amniotic fluid with alcohol of different concentrations.

Also: flask test · foam stability test

Oxytocin tolerance test Cardiotocographic recording performed under stimulation with controlled infusion of oxytocin to assess the hemodynamic response and fetal reserve to provoked contractions.

Also: oxytocin stress test · fetal contractile provocation test · OCT

Raloxifene Selective estrogen receptor modulator that exerts beneficial agonist effects on bone tissue and antagonistic effects on the endometrium and breast tissue.

Also: selective bone estrogen modulator · Second generation SERM

Rectocele bulging of the anterior wall of the rectum towards the posterior vaginal lumen caused by the weakening and tearing of the rectovaginal fascia septum.

Also: straight descent · rectovaginal hernia

Antral follicle count Transvaginal ultrasound evaluation performed in the early follicular phase to count follicular structures between two and ten millimeters, reflecting the ovarian reserve.

Also: ultrasound follicular count · ovarian follicular reserve

Ferguson's reflection Neuroendocrine feedback reflex in which the pressure exerted by the fetal presentation on the cervix stimulates the massive release of oxytocin by the neurohypophysis.

Also: reflex release of oxytocin · cervical contractile reflex loop

Cardiotocographic record Continuous or intermittent biophysical method of monitoring fetal status that simultaneously records the heart rate of the fetus and the presence of contractions in the uterus.

Also: electronic fetal monitoring · fetal well-being graph

Lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio Biochemical quotient quantified in the amniotic fluid that assesses the lung maturity of the fetus, with a value equal to or greater than two being considered mature.

Also: L/W index · lecithin-sphingomyelin ratio of maturity

External rotation Turning movement performed by the fetal head once free on the outside to align with the shoulders of the fetus that are accommodated within the pelvis.

Also: restitution of the fetal head · external shoulder rotation

Internal rotation Rotation of the fetal head inside the pelvis to orient its largest diameter with the anteroposterior diameter of the maternal pelvic inlet.

Also: fetal intracavitary twist · internal pelvic rotational accommodation

Uterine rupture Total loss of the integrity of the muscular wall of the uterus during pregnancy or labor, which directly compromises the life of the mother and fetus.

Also: rupture of the uterine wall · complete tear of the uterus

Congenital rubella Syndrome derived from intrauterine infection by the rubella virus that causes an embryopathy characterized by Gregg's triad composed of cataracts, deafness and heart disease.

Also: rubella embryopathy · rubella syndrome of the newborn

Sacrocolpopexy Surgical fixation of the descended vaginal vault to the periosteum of the sacral promontory through the use of stable synthetic meshes.

Also: sacral vaginal dome suspension · colpopexy to the promontory

Salpingectomy Surgical intervention that consists of the complete or partial removal of one or both fallopian tubes, frequently performed after the rupture of a tubal ectopic pregnancy.

Also: tubal resection · fallopian tube removal

Bilateral salpingectomy Complete removal of both fallopian tubes, which in addition to guaranteeing definitive sterilization, significantly reduces the subsequent risk of serous ovarian cancer.

Also: complete removal of both tubes · ovarian protective sterilization

Salpingitis Inflammation of one or both fallopian tubes, which constitutes a fundamental component of pelvic inflammatory disease and can leave consequences of tubal obstruction.

Also: tubal inflammation · fallopian tube infection

Salpingostomy Longitudinal surgical opening of the fallopian tube in order to extract an ectopic gestational sac while preserving the anatomical integrity of the tubal structure.

Also: conservative tubal incision · conservative ectopic extraction

Seminogram Basic laboratory test used to evaluate male fertility through the physical, macroscopic, microscopic and kinetic analysis of a fresh semen sample.

Also: spermiogram · semen quality analysis

Congenital sylis Systemic bacterial infection transmitted to the fetus through the placenta by Treponema pallidum, which causes late-onset abortions, bone involvement, splenomegaly and dental alterations.

Also: fetal syphilis · transplacental treponemal infection

Syncytiotrophoblast Multinucleated, syncytial outer epithelial layer of the chorionic villi of the placenta that has active invasive capacity and massively synthesizes chorionic gonadotropin.

Also: trophoblastic outer layer · invading syncytial trophoblast

Synclitism Symmetrical descent of the fetal head through the maternal pelvis in which the sagittal suture remains equidistant in relation to the pubis and the promontory.

Also: symmetrical head descent · centered sagittal suture

Asherman syndrome Presence of adhesions and bands of fibrous scar tissue within the uterine cavity that partially or totally obliterate the lumen of the endometrium.

Also: intrauterine cicatricial synechiae · obstructive endometrial fibrosis

Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome Extrapelvic complication of pelvic inflammatory disease characterized by perihepatitis associated with the formation of fibrous adhesions in the shape of violin strings.

Also: gonococcal or chlamydial perihepatitis · gynecological perihepatic adhesions

HELLP syndrome Serious obstetric complication characterized by the diagnostic triad of microangiopathic hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and decreased total platelet count.

Also: hemolysis with elevated liver enzymes and plateletopenia · gestational hepatic microangiopathy

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome Abnormally exaggerated systemic response of the ovaries to the hormonal stimulation used in assisted reproduction, which causes increased vascular permeability and ascites.

Also: ovarian follicular hyperresponse · complication of reproductive stimulation · SHEO

Morris syndrome Genetic disorder of sexual development characterized by male karyotype, functioning male gonads but complete absence of response of peripheral tissues to androgenic hormones.

Also: complete androgen insensitivity syndrome

Rokitansky syndrome Congenital malformation characterized by the absence of vagina and uterus associated with ovaries with normal function and preserved secondary sexual characteristics.

Also: Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome · total Müllerian agenesis

Feto-fetal transfusion syndrome Serious complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies characterized by the unbalanced passage of blood from a donor fetus to another recipient fetus through placental vascular anastomoses.

Also: unbalanced twin transfusion · monochorial flow imbalance

Turner syndrome Chromosomal anomaly characterized by the total or partial loss of one of the X sex chromosomes in women, causing short stature, winged neck and gonadal dysgenesis.

Also: monosomy · karyotype 45,X

Symphysiotomy Emergency surgical procedure consisting of the controlled section of the cartilage of the pubic symphysis to temporarily widen the pelvic diameters and facilitate childbirth.

Also: obstetric pubic division · section of the symphysis pubis

Vasomotor symptoms Recurrent acute circulatory alterations due to the instability of the hypothalamic thermoregulatory centers due to hypoestrogenism that manifest with hot flashes and night sweats.

Also: heat waves · climacteric suffocation due to lack of estrogen

Fetal situation Spatial relationship established between the longitudinal axis of the fetus and the longitudinal axis of the mother, which may be longitudinal, transverse or oblique.

Also: fetal axis · longitudinal fetal orientation

Transverse situation Orientation of fetal statics in which the longitudinal axis of the fetus intersects perpendicularly with the longitudinal axis of the maternal uterine cavity.

Also: fetus in transverse · fetal perpendicular orientation

Streptococcus agalactiae Gram-positive coccus bacteria, a habitual colonizer of the female genital and digestive tract, whose detection is associated with neonatal sepsis and meningitis due to vertical transmission.

Also: group B streptococcus · GBS bacteria · Group B Streptococcus

Magnesium sulfate Drug of choice used in obstetrics for the prevention and control of seizures in patients with severe preeclampsia, as well as for fetal neuroprotection.

Also: intravenous magnesium salt · fetal neurological protector

B-Lynch Suture Surgical uterine compression technique using continuous transfixion stitches that surround the uterine body to treat atony and avoid hysterectomy.

Also: B-Lynch Compressive Compression Knit · suture in uterine straps

Perineal suture Surgical technique of approximation and anatomical closure by planes of the perineal tissues sectioned by an episiotomy or torn during birth.

Also: episiorrhaphy · surgical repair of the perineum

Vaginal septum Defect of genital development that is characterized by the persistence of a band of longitudinal or transverse fibromuscular tissue that divides the lumen of the vaginal cavity.

Also: vaginal septum · accessory anomalous vaginal wall

Fetal tachycardia Elevation of the basal fetal heart rate above one hundred and sixty beats per minute maintained for a minimum period of ten minutes of continuous recording.

Also: accelerated fetal heartbeat · sustained basal acceleration

Tachysystole Presence of more than five uterine contractions in a ten-minute interval during at least two consecutive periods of monitoring uterine dynamics.

Also: quantitative uterine hyperdynamics · excess uterine contractions

Hormone replacement therapy Pharmacological treatment based on the systemic or local administration of estrogens and progestogens to alleviate the deficiency symptoms of menopause.

Also: climacteric hormonal therapy · menopausal hormone replacement · THR

Fibronectin test Qualitative or quantitative test that detects the presence of an extracellular matrix glycoprotein in cervicovaginal secretions as a predictive marker of imminent preterm birth.

Also: fetal vaginal fibronectin · choriodecidual rupture biomarker

Tibolone Synthetic drug with combined estrogenic, progestogenic and weak androgenic activity used to control menopausal symptoms and prevent osteoporosis.

Also: hormonal compound with selective tissue action · tibolone modulator

Congenital toxoplasmosis Parasitic infection of the fetus transmitted transplacentally after primary maternal infection with Toxoplasma gondii, characterized by Sabin's tetrad with hydrocephalus, chorioretinitis, seizures and calcifications.

Also: intrauterine fetal toxoplasmosis · infant toxoplasmosis syndrome

Embryo transfer Procedure of placing one or more embryos cultured in vitro inside the maternal uterine cavity to facilitate their subsequent implantation.

Also: intrauterine embryo storage · blastocyst transfer

Menopausal transition Period of time that precedes the definitive cessation of menstruation, characterized by marked hormonal fluctuations, cycle irregularities and the appearance of clinical symptoms.

Also: early perimenopause · climacteric transition stage

Nuchal translucency Ultrasound measurement of the thickness of the echo-free space located under the skin of the nuchal region of the fetus in the first trimester, used as a marker of chromosomopathies.

Also: ultrasound nuchal fold · nuchal thickness of the first trimester

Vaginal trichomoniasis Sexually transmitted infection caused by the flagellated protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis, characterized by foamy vaginal discharge that is greenish-yellow in color and foul-smelling.

Also: vaginal trichomaniasis · flagellated protozoan infection

Triple descending gradient Pattern of propagation of uterine contraction characterized by originating in the fundus of the uterus, having greater intensity and duration in said region and propagating downwards.

Also: contractile propagation gradient · triple uterine gradient

Brenner tumor Epithelial ovarian tumor characterized by the presence of nests of transitional cells surrounded by an abundant fibrous stroma similar to the urothelium.

Also: transitional ovarian neoplasia · benign Brenner tumor · Ovarian Brenner · Brenner neoplasia

Montevideo Unit Quantitative measure of uterine activity calculated by multiplying the average intensity of contractions by their frequency in a ten-minute interval.

Also: contractile pressure units · quantification of uterine dynamics

Urethritis Acute inflammation of the walls of the female urethra frequently due to sexually transmitted infections that cause intense dysuria and local secretion.

Also: urethral inflammation · infection of the female urethra

Urodynamics Set of diagnostic techniques that evaluate the physiological functioning of the lower urinary tract by measuring flows, pressures and sphincter activity.

Also: urodynamic study · functional assessment of the lower urinary tract

Arcuate uterus Benign anatomical variant in which a minimal flat indentation or small curvature is seen in the contour of the bottom of the uterine endometrial cavity without altering fertility.

Also: fundic arcuate uterus · minimum internal deviation of the uterine fundus

Bicornuate uterus Uterine malformation resulting from the incomplete fusion of the Müllerian ducts that gives rise to an organ provided with two uterine horns separated by an external fundic cleft.

Also: external bifurcated uterus · two-horned uterus

Didelphous uterus Müllerian duct anomaly characterized by the complete lack of fusion of both ducts resulting in two independent uterine bodies with two distinct cervixes.

Also: double uterus · complete duplication of the uterine system

Uterus septum Congenital anomaly of the Müllerian ducts consisting of an externally normal uterus but provided with a muscular or fibrous septum that internally divides the endometrial cavity.

Also: septated uterus · uterine septal resorption defect

Unicorn uterus Uterine malformation secondary to failure to develop or arrest one of the Müllerian ducts resulting in a single unilateral uterine cavity and a single tube.

Also: one-horned uterus · unilateral agenesis of the Müllerian duct

Vaginismus Spasmodic, reflex and involuntary contraction of the muscles of the external third of the vagina that makes the penetration of any object absolutely impossible.

Also: vaginal muscle spasm · impossibility of vaginal penetration

Postmenopausal vaginitis Inflammatory condition of the vaginal mucosa derived from severe estrogen deficiency that causes dryness, dyspareunia and local irritation.

Also: senile atrophic vaginitis · vaginal inflammation due to hormonal deprivation

Bacterial vaginosis Vaginal dysbiosis characterized by the progressive loss of hydrogen peroxide-producing lactobacilli and the symbiotic overproliferation of anaerobic bacteria.

Also: non-specific bacterial vaginal infection · bacterial overgrowth of the vaginal flora

Fetal variability Beat-to-beat fluctuation of the basal heart rate of the fetus that represents the integrity of the autonomic nervous system and the fetal physiological response to oxygenation.

Also: fetal heart rate oscillation · baseline variability

Gestational chickenpox Maternal infection by the varicella-zoster virus that, if it occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, can cause congenital varicella syndrome with scarring skin lesions and hypoplasia of extremities.

Also: chickenpox of pregnancy · congenital fetal varicella syndrome

Obstetric suction cup Fetal extraction instrument composed of a flexible or rigid cup connected to a vacuum system that adheres to the fetal scalp to facilitate traction during delivery.

Also: vacuum extractor · birthing vacuum suction cup

External cephalic version Manual transabdominal manipulation maneuver performed to direct the fetus from a breech or transverse presentation to a cephalic presentation.

Also: fetal external rotation · manual external version

Internal version Intrauterine manual obstetric maneuver that consists of introducing a hand into the uterine cavity to hold the feet of the fetus and rotate it towards a breech presentation.

Also: internal manual rotation · internal version

Oocyte vitrification Ultra-rapid egg cryopreservation technique that prevents the formation of intracellular ice crystals, maintaining high rates of subsequent cell viability.

Also: rapid egg freezing · oocyte cryopreservation

HPV Virus of the Papillomaviridae family with epithelial tropism whose types of high oncogenic risk constitute the main etiological factor of premalignant and malignant neoplasms of the genital tract.

Also: human papillomavirus · human papillomavirus

Vulvodynia Sensation of discomfort or persistent chronic pain of a burning nature located in the vulvar region that lacks an identifiable organic cause or underlying active infectious pathology.

Also: chronic vulvar discomfort · idiopathic vulvar pain

Vulvovaginitis Simultaneous inflammatory and infectious process that affects the vaginal mucosa and the skin of the vulva, producing changes in the characteristics of the discharge, itching and burning.

Also: inflammation of the vulva and vagina · mixed vaginitis

Wertheim-Meigs Radical surgical intervention used for the treatment of cervical cancer that includes the excision of the uterus, adnexa, parametria and the chain of pelvic lymph nodes.

Also: extended radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy · radical Wertheim surgery

Transformation zone Dynamic cervical area between the original squamocylindrical line and the new one, where physiological squamous metaplasia actively occurs.

Also: area of metaplasia of the cervix · dynamic region of the cervical epithelium

Gynecology and obstetrics

Other glossary specialties