Full glossary of healthcare terms

Reproductive Health

min read

Full glossary of terms relating to reproductive health, neurodiversity and gender identity

An up-to date, comprehensive glossary of terms relating to reproductive health and neurodiversity for HR professionals to refer to.

Published:

29/8/25

Updated:

31/10/25

Guest author

Fertility & Family-forming

Adoption

Adoption is a legal process that permanently transfers parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parent(s).

Antimuellerian Hormone (AMH)

AMH (Antimuellerian Hormone) is a hormone produced by the ovaries that reflect a woman’s egg reserve.

Artificial insemination

Artificial insemination is a fertility procedure where sperm is directly inserted into a woman’s uterus, cervix, or vagina to help achieve pregnancy without sexual intercourse.

Assisted reproductive technology (ART)

ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) refers to medical techniques used to help achieve pregnancy by handling eggs, sperm, or embryos outside the body, such as IVF (in vitro fertilisation).

Azoospermia

A medical condition characterised by the absence of sperm in a man's ejaculate.

Blastocyst

An early-stage embryo (about 5–6 days after fertilisation) with an inner cell mass that forms the baby and an outer layer that forms the placenta.

Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation is a process that preserves organelles, cells, tissues, or any other biological constructs by cooling the samples to very low temperatures.

Egg freezing

Egg freezing is a medical process in which eggs are collected from the ovaries and frozen for future use. The eggs can later be thawed and used in IVF to try to achieve pregnancy.

Embryo

An embryo is an early stage of human development that forms after a sperm fertilises an egg and continues to grow until about eight weeks of pregnancy.

Embryo transfer

Embryo Transfer is a procedure where an embryo, created in a laboratory, is placed into a woman's uterus to facilitate pregnancy.

Fertility investigations

Fertility investigations refer to any consultations, blood tests, scans or other procedures that may be required as part of a reproductive health diagnosis or ahead of treatment.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

A gonadotrophic hormone that stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the ovary before the release of an egg from one follicle at ovulation. In males it can also stimulate sperm production.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy and used as an injection in fertility treatment to trigger the final maturation of eggs before collection.

In vitro fertilisation (IVF)

IVF is a fertility treatment that usually involves initial hormonal medication to stimulate the ovaries, followed by a procedure to collect the eggs from the ovaries. If successful, eggs may then be frozen, or fertilised with sperm in a laboratory. If fertilisation occurs, the resulting embryo(s) are transferred to the womb in the hope of achieving a pregnancy. One treatment cycle can take up to eight weeks.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) is a specialised form of IVF in which each collected egg is injected with a single sperm. It is commonly used when infertility is due to sperm-related issues and may be more costly due to the additional procedures and equipment involved.

Intrauterine insemination (IUI)

IUI (intrauterine insemination) is an assisted fertility procedure in which sperm is placed directly into the womb. It is generally less physically invasive than IVF.

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Luteinising hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in reproduction. In women, it triggers ovulation and regulates the menstrual cycle. In men, it stimulates the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for sperm production.

Motility

The ability for an organism to move independently. This term is usually used to describe sperm, which move (swim) on their own.

Ovarian tissue freezing

Ovarian tissue freezing, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation, is a fertility preservation method where a woman's ovarian tissue is surgically removed and frozen for future use. This can be for patients who are unable to freeze their eggs and for younger people who haven't started ovulating.

Ovary

The female reproductive organs that produce eggs and oestrogen on a monthly basis under hormonal influence from the pituitary gland.

Ovulation

The release of the egg from an ovarian follicle.

STI

Sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, which can also be known as STD (sexually transmitted diseases).

Surrogacy

The process of a person carrying a baby on behalf of another person or family.

Transvaginal oocyte retrieval

Transvaginal oocyte retrieval is a surgical procedure used in vitro fertilisation (IVF) to collect a woman's eggs from her ovaries through the vaginal canal using ultrasound guidance.

Transvaginal ultrasound

An ultrasound scan where the probe is placed inside the vagina.

Treatment cycle

Treatment cycle refers to the duration of any fertility treatment. A treatment cycle usually lasts around 4-8 weeks. However, a treatment cycle may last 3-4 months in some cases dependent on additional procedures, the course and outcomes of treatment.

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Fertility workplace support

Find out how our in-house fertility specialists can support your employees through all fertility and family-forming journeys

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Gender Identity

AFAB

AFAB stands for "assigned female at birth”.

AMAB

AMAB stands for "assigned male at birth”.

Affirmed gender

Affirmed gender is the gender identity that a person lives and expresses, which may differ from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Agender

Agender means having no gender or not identifying with any gender identity like man or woman.

Aromantic

A romantic orientation defined by experiencing little to no romantic attraction.

Asexual

Asexual means a person experiences little to no sexual attraction.

Bigender

Bigender refers to a person who has two distinct gender identities, such as both male and female, or any other combination of two genders.

Bisexual

Bisexual describes a sexual orientation where a person has romantic, emotional, or sexual attraction to more than one gender.

Cisgender

Someone whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. It simply means that the gender identified matches what was noted on their birth certificate.

Cisnormativity

The assumption that cisgender people are the "normal" or "right" standard for gender, leading to the marginalisation of transgender and gender-diverse individuals.

Coming out

the process of sharing one's LGBTQ+ identity, such as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, with others.

Dead-name

The name a transgender or non-binary person was given at birth and no longer uses. Using a person’s chosen name is the ideal way to show respect.

Gender expression

How one outwardly shows gender to the world through characteristics such as clothing, hairstyle, mannerisms, or voice. Gender expression does not always have to match gender identity.

Genderfluid

Genderfluid describes a gender identity that is not fixed and changes over time, meaning a person may identify as male, female, both, or neither, depending on the situation.

Genderqueer

Genderqueer is a term for gender identities that are not exclusively male or female, existing outside or beyond the gender binary.

Gender affirmation

The process of supporting and validating someone’s gender identity. This can include using a person’s chosen name and pronouns, or providing them access to appropriate medical care and guidance.

Gender affirming care

The support treatment a person receives to help them align their physical appearance and/or legal gender with their gender identity. It can involve changing names, pronouns, outward presentation, medical and surgical procedures.

Gender dysphoria

Gender dysphoria is a term describing the distress a person feels when their gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth.

Gender identity

One’s own innately felt sense of gender, whether or not that aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. 

Gender neutral

Gender neutral describes something or someone that doesn't specify or lean towards a particular gender. Think of it as being inclusive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of whether a man, woman, non-binary, or identify in another way not mentioned here. It can apply to language (like using "they/them" pronouns), spaces (like a gender-neutral toilet), or even products.

Gender reassignment

The legal term used to describe Gender Affirming Care. In this glossary, we use the terms Gender Affirming Care and Transitioning.

Intersex

A term for people born with sex characteristics-such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitals-that don't fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies.

Non-binary

A term used to describe a gender identity that does not fit into the traditional boxes of “man” or “woman”. It means one might identify as both, neither, or a different gender altogether.

Pansexual

A sexual orientation characterised by attraction to people regardless of their gender.

Pronouns

The words use to refer to someone in place of their name, such as “he/him”, “she/her” or “they/them”. Using someone’s correct pronouns is a thoughtful way to show respect and acknowledge their gender identity. 

Queer

An umbrella term for people who identify as non-heterosexual or non-cisgender, and it can also refer to those who reject traditional sexual and gender norm.

Sexuality

A complex and personal aspect of an individual that encompasses their sexual orientation, behaviours, preferences, and attractions.

Transgender 

Someone whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. For example, someone who was assigned female at birth, but identifies as a man. 

Men’s Health

Azoospermia

Azoospermia is a medical condition characterised by the absence of sperm in a man's ejaculate.

Benign prostate enlargement

Benign Prostate Enlargement (BPE) is the medical term for a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. It is common in men over 50 and can affect urination. Importantly, having BPE does not increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Delayed ejaculation

The persistent difficulty or inability to ejaculate during sexual activity, often causing distress.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction is quite common, particularly in men over 40. Around half of men will experience it at some point in their life. While often not serious, persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV

A common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) that leads to painful blisters or sores, usually around the mouth (cold sores) or genitals.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

A virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

A common viral infection transmitted through sexual contact that is often harmless and clears up on its own.

Hydrocele

A type of swelling in the scrotum, the pouch of skin that holds the testicles. This swelling happens when fluid collects in the thin sac that surrounds a testicle.

Low libido

A lack of interest in sexual activity, caused by a combination of psychological, physical, and lifestyle factors.

Low testosterone

Low testosterone, or male hypogonadism, occurs when testicles do not produce enough testosterone. It can result from conditions or injuries affecting the testicles, pituitary gland, or hypothalamus. It’s typically treatable with testosterone replacement therapy

Male infertility

Around 1 in 7 couples will experience challenges with fertility and around half of infertility cases are male-factor. This can be for a number of reasons, from low sperm production or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm, to illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems and lifestyle choices.

Male menopause

As men reach their late 40s to early 50s, they may experience a range of physical and emotional changes, including depression, reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, mood swings, irritability, loss of muscle mass, fat redistribution, low energy, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, and short-term memory issues. These symptoms can impact daily life and wellbeing, so identifying the underlying cause is important. Unlike female menopause, these changes are not caused by a sudden drop in hormones; while low testosterone can contribute, other factors may also play a role.

Penile cancer

Penile cancer is quite rare and mostly affects men over the age of 50. A doctor should be consulted if penile changes are observed, such as a lump, rash, or any discoloration.

Peyronie’s disease

Peyronie's disease is a disorder in which scar link tissue, called plaque, forms under the skin of the penis and causes the penis to become curved when it's erect. The condition mostly affects men over 40, although it can happen at any age.

Premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation affects around 20% of men and is when ejaculation is sooner than desired during sexual arousal. It’s completely normal if this happens from time to time, but if more frequent and posing problems, a doctor should be consulted.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test

A blood test that measures the amount of PSA, a protein made by the prostate gland, to help diagnose prostate issues.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men in the UK, with 1 in 8 men having prostate cancer in their lifetime according to Prostate Cancer UK. However, 75% of men will put off going to the GP when something is wrong, according to a survey by Gillette. Most men should begin getting screenings for prostate cancer between the ages of 45-55 and repeat the tests every 2-3 years. Every individual is different, so speaking to a doctor to find out what’s best is recommended.

Prostatis

Inflammation of the prostate, which is a small gland found below the bladder in men.

Retrograde ejaculation

This is a more rare type of ejaculation problem and involves the semen travelling back down into the bladder instead of up the urethra and out. This might be noticed if one has cloudy urine after having sex. This does not pose a health risk, however, can affect fertility.

Semen analysis

A laboratory test that examines a man’s semen to assess sperm count, movement (motility), shape (morphology), and overall sperm health to help evaluate fertility.

Sexually transmitted infections

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is typically contracted through sexual activity. Although women have a higher risk of contracting an STI, they’re also common in men. If one experiences rashes, blisters, sores, or discolouration of the skin of the penis or anus, pain during urination or ejaculation, unusually frequent urination, or discharge that smells or is of a strange colour, it’s a good idea to get seen by a doctor.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men. There are around 2,400 new testicular cancer cases in the UK every year, but it has a survival rate of 91%. It’s really important for me to do self-checks of their testicles and to see a doctor if any changes are observed.

Testosterone

A primarily male sex hormone that is crucial for male reproductive tissue development, secondary sex characteristics like muscle mass, hair growth, and reproductive function. Also produced in a woman’s ovaries and declines as individuals age.

Testosterone replacement therapy

A treatment for low testosterone (hypogonadism) for men and women which that uses various methods to supplement the hormone, including gels, patches, injections, implants, and buccal tablets.

Total motile sperm

The number of sperm that can move forward in an ejaculate.

Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria infect the bladder, kidneys, or the connecting tubes. Common symptoms include a sudden urge to urinate and experiencing pain or a burning sensation during urination. Typically, UTIs can be managed with pain relief medication and drinking lots of fluids. In some cases, a GP will prescribe antibiotics to treat it. While UTIs are more common in women, around 12% of men will develop one in their lifetime.

Varicocele

Varicocele is a group of enlarged veins near the testicles. It is more common on the left scrotum but may occur on either side. Often symptoms don’t present, but if the scrotum grows too large a man may feel an uncomfortable heaviness. Some people describe this as a dull ache as the day wears on. Surgery is an option if this is becoming uncomfortable, or if it is affecting your fertility.

Vasectomy

A vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception. It stops sperm from being released when ejaculating. Typically performed under local anaesthetic, a vasectomy takes about 30 minutes. Mild pain for 1 to 2 weeks post-procedure is common. This service is available on the NHS, though there is often a waiting list. While reversal is possible, it's not always successful and is generally not offered on the NHS.

Menopause

Andropause

Sometimes known as the ‘male menopause’, this is when adults assigned male at birth and some trans individuals in their late 40s to 50s can experience physical and emotional symptoms that affect daily life. Andropause may or may not be related to a fall in testosterone levels.

Bioidentical HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)

Bioidentical HRT uses hormones that are chemically identical to the ones the body naturally produces. It's often used to help ease menopause symptoms like hot flushes and mood changes by balancing hormones. Some people prefer bioidentical hormones because they closely match the body’s own, but it's important to consult a doctor to find the right option.

Brain fog

Brain fog refers to moments when one feels forgetful, unfocused, or mentally fuzzy. It can be caused by hormonal changes that can affect memory and concentration. While it can be frustrating, it’s a normal part of menopause for many people and usually improves over time.

Heart palpitations

Heart palpitations are when it suddenly feels like one’s heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping a beat. If these happen often or feel severe, it’s a good idea to check with a doctor.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT is the replacement of hormones that are no longer being produced in sufficient amounts during perimenopause/menopause. These hormones are oestrogen, testosterone and progesterone.

Hot flushes

Hot flushes are sudden feelings of warmth, usually in the face, neck, or chest, often accompanied by sweating and redness. They're common during menopause and happen when hormonal changes affect the body’s temperature regulation. They might come on quickly and can be quite uncomfortable.

Menopause

Medically, it is defined as a year after the last period, when ovarian function has ceased and usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, due to the decline in hormone levels (oestrogen and progesterone).

Migraines

Migraines are intense headaches that often come with throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. They can also cause nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and visual disturbances like flashing lights. Migraines can last for hours or even days, and they’re more than just a regular headache, potentially greatly affecting one’s day to day.

Mood swings

Mood swings during menopause are sudden changes in how one feels, such as going from happy to sad or irritable without a clear reason. They’re often caused by hormonal changes that affect emotions, but sometimes they can also be caused or made worse by life and lifestyle changes that can come about during this time in life.

Oestrogen

The main hormone that helps develop and maintain female characteristics and the female reproductive system. Oestrogen levels vary during the menstrual cycle and perimenopause and is very important in maintaining bone and cardiovascular health. The loss of oestrogen causes the majority of perimenopausal symptoms.

Perimenopause

The transitional phase leading up to menopause, characterised by fluctuating hormone levels that cause symptoms like irregular periods, mood swings, hot flushes and sleep disruptions.

Post-menopause

The stage of life that begins after a woman has had 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

Progesterone

A hormone produced mainly by the ovaries that helps regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the uterus for pregnancy, and support early stages of pregnancy.

Menopause workplace support

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Menopause workplace support

Find out how our in-house specialists can support your employees through symptoms and challenges their menopause journeys

Discover our healthcare benefit

Neonatal Loss

Neonatal loss

Neonatal loss means the death of a baby that happens after 24 weeks of pregnancy. This can include stillbirths (when a baby passes away before or during delivery) or neonatal deaths (when a baby passes away shortly after being born, usually within the first 28 days of life).

Neonatal Loss Leave and Pay

The legal name for the time off and pay that one is entitled to during this time is referred to as ‘maternity’ or ‘paternity’ leave and pay.

Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay

Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay is a UK statutory right that allows parents to take paid time off from work to deal with the death of a child under the age of 18 or a stillbirth or neonatal loss after 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Please note that the amount of time off parents are entitled to varies from country to country.

Partner

‘Partner’ refers to either a spouse, civil partner, or someone with whom one is in a relationship, who is not a relative.

Neurodiversity

Ableism

Discrimination in favour of non-disabled people.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects behaviour. Common traits include patterns of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that can impact daily functioning, including at work and in education.

Access to Work

Access to Work is a UK government grant scheme that provides practical and financial support for people with a disability or health condition, including neurodivergent conditions, to help them start or stay in work. This can fund specialist equipment, coaching, or support workers.

Aspergers syndrome

A developmental disorder on the autism spectrum that affects how a person communicates and interacts with others, often involving focused interests and repetitive behaviours.

Autism (or Autism Spectrum Disorder - ASD)

Autism is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the sensory world. It is a spectrum condition, meaning it affects people in different ways.

Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT)

A goal-oriented talking therapy that helps people change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours to improve their mental health.

Co-occurring conditions

This refers to when a person has more than one distinct condition at the same time. It's common for neurodivergent individuals to have more than one neurotype, for example, being both autistic and dyslexic.

Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia is a specific and persistent difficulty in understanding numbers and mathematical concepts. It can affect a person's ability to learn number facts and procedures.

Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a common learning difference that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent reading and spelling. It can also impact areas like organisational skills.

Dysgraphia

A neurological learning disability that affects writing, making it difficult to write legibly and spell correctly, regardless of intelligence.

Dyspraxia (or Developmental Coordination Disorder - DCD)

Dyspraxia is a condition that affects physical co-ordination, planning, and organisation. It can impact both fine motor skills (like writing) and gross motor skills (like balance).

Echolalia

The repetition of words, phrases, or sounds heard from others.

EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan)

An EHCP is a legally binding document in England for children and young people up to the age of 25 who need more support than is available through special educational needs support. It identifies their educational, health, and social needs and sets out the additional support to meet those needs.

Executive dysfunction

This refers to difficulties with a set of key mental skills that control and manage other brain functions. These skills include planning, organising, working memory, time management, and flexible thinking.

Hyperlexia

A condition characterised by an advanced, early ability to read and a strong fascination with letters and numbers, often before the age of five.

Hypersensitivity/Hyperresponsiveness

An exaggerated or abnormal response to a stimulus.

Idiosyncratic language

A unique, personal style of communication that deviates from conventional norms, often involving made-up words (neologisms), personalised phrases, or using common words in unconventional ways.

Masking (or Camouflaging)

Masking is the conscious or unconscious suppression of natural neurodivergent traits to fit in with neurotypical social expectations. While it can be a useful coping strategy, it often requires significant mental effort and can lead to burnout.

Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is the concept that differences in brain function and behavioural traits are a normal and are a natural variation within the human population. It shifts the focus from deficits to differences and strengths.

Neurodivergent

A term used to describe an individual whose brain functions in a way that diverges from what is considered 'typical' by society. It is an umbrella term for conditions like Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and others.

Neurominority

A group of neurodivergent people who share a common, innate neurodivergence, such as autism, dyslexia, or ADHD.

Neuroatypical

Individuals with a brain structure and function that differs from what is considered "typical" or "neurotypical".

Neurotypical

A term used to describe an individual whose brain functions, processes information, and displays behaviours that are considered typical or common by society.

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

A mental health condition characterised by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) performed to temporarily relieve the anxiety caused by these thoughts.

Reasonable Adjustments

A legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 in England that requires employers, educational institutions, and service providers to make changes to remove or reduce disadvantages experienced by a person with a disability, which includes neurodivergent conditions. Examples include providing noise-cancelling headphones or flexible working hours.

Stimming

Short for self-stimulatory behaviour, stimming refers to repetitive movements, sounds, or actions (such as hand-flapping, rocking, or fidgeting) that a person uses to help regulate their emotions, sensory input, or focus.

Synaesthesia

The production of a sense impression relating to one sense or part of the body by stimulation of another sense or part of the body.

Time blindness

The difficulty in perceiving, managing, and judging the passage of time, often leading to issues like chronic lateness, poor time estimation, and missed deadlines.

Tourette syndrome

A neurological disorder characterised by involuntary, repetitive sounds and movements called tics.

Pregnancy Loss

Trigger warning: Pregnancy loss, miscarriage and baby loss.

Abortion

A procedure to end a pregnancy, which can be done through medicine or surgery.

Bereavement

Bereavement is the experience of losing someone important to us. It's characterised by grief, which is the process and the range of emotions we go through when we experience a loss.

Miscarriage

Miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks, most commonly occurring within the first 12 weeks. Miscarriage can often occur without any explanation, and there’s a lot we still don’t know about why it happens.

Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilised egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. It happens at the very start of pregnancy. Sadly, the pregnancy is not viable as the foetus cannot survive develop outside of the uterus.

Ectopic pregnancy can be life-threatening and will often require urgent medical attention. Treatment typically involves medication or surgery to prevent complications.

Molar Pregnancy

A molar pregnancy happens when there is too much or too little genetic material in a fertilised egg, and a foetus can't develop properly. Clusters of abnormal cells or water-filled sacs may develop in the womb instead. Unfortunately, a molar pregnancy cannot develop into a baby and will likely need to be surgically removed.

Neonatal death

The death of a baby within the first 28 days of life.

Personal Support Plan 

Refers to the medical procedure to end a pregnancy. This decision can be made for various personal, medical, or social reasons, and it is often complex and deeply personal.

Spontaneous abortion

The natural loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation, most commonly due to abnormal chromosomes in the foetus.

Stillbirth

The death of a baby in the womb after 24 completed weeks of pregnancy.

Surrogate/Surrogacy

Surrogacy is when a woman carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or person(s).

Termination for Medical Reasons (TMFR) 

Refers to the decision to end a pregnancy due to serious health risks to the baby, the mother, or both. It is an incredibly difficult and emotional choice, made when continuing the pregnancy could lead to severe suffering or significant danger.

Women’s Health

Chlamydia

A common sexually transmitted infection that can occur in both men and women. It is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis.

Contraception

The act of preventing pregnancy. This can be a device, a medication, a procedure or a behaviour.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a long-term condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Symptoms of endometriosis include pain in your lower tummy or back (pelvic pain) and severe period pain.

Fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the womb (uterus). Fibroids can vary in size and severity. Symptoms of fibroids can include heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, abdominal, pelvic, and lower back pain, and frequent urination, amongst others.

Genital herpes

A common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). Symptoms include painful blisters or sores around the genitals, anus, buttocks, or thighs, which may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms, and painful urination.

Gonorrhoea

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, spread through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Symptoms can include pain during urination, unusual discharge, or bleeding, though some people have no symptoms at all.

Hormonal contraception

Hormonal contraception encompasses the various methods of contraception that involve taking synthetic hormones to regulate or mimic one’s cycle. These can include the pill, patch, coil, injection, implant, ring, and others. Someone may take hormonal contraception to control periods, avoid unplanned pregnancy, or to treat other medical conditions. Some side effects of hormonal contraception are low mood and depression, headaches, and nausea.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Around 85% of people who have ever been sexually active will get HPV at some stage of their life. For most women, the condition will clear up on its own, but around 3-5% of women will have precancerous cells that need to be monitored and or biopsied.

Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus (womb). Sometimes, this surgery will also remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and cervix. A woman can’t conceive after this procedure.

Infertility

The inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sex, affecting both men and women.

Intrauterine device (IUD) or copper coil

A general term, and a copper coil is a specific type of IUD. They are both small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

Intrauterine system (IUS)

A T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy by releasing the hormone progestogen.

Menstrual or period disorders

This is a broad term that could include anything from painful cramps during your period to abnormal heavy bleeding.

Oestrogen

Ovarian cysts

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can grow on the ovaries. They’re very common, and most will go away without treatment. Sometimes, women will need surgery to remove them, and this can require a hospital stay.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

An infection of the female reproductive organs, most commonly caused by untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized as a group of symptoms that have an effect on a women’s body and hormone levels. Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome include irregular periods, facial hair, difficulty losing weight, and difficulty getting pregnant.

Pregnancy loss

The spontaneous end of a pregnancy before the foetus is viable, most commonly referred to as a miscarriage.

Progesterone

A hormone produced mainly by the ovaries that helps regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the uterus for pregnancy, and support early stages of pregnancy.

Sexual dysfunction

A person's inability to participate in a sexual relationship as they would wish.

Sexual transmitted infections (STIs)

A disease caused by infection with certain bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms that can be passed from one person to another through blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or other body fluids, during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner.

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast (fungal) infection that can affect the vagina, penis and skin. A lot of people think it only affects women, and while up to 75% of women will get it at some point in their lifetime, men can get it too. It usually causes itchiness, irritation, and a white discharge, and sometimes it can hurt to urinate.

Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria infect the bladder, kidneys, or the connecting tubes. Common symptoms include a sudden urge to urinate and experiencing pain or a burning sensation during urination. Typically, UTIs can be managed with pain relief medication and drinking lots of fluids. In some cases, a GP will prescribe antibiotics to treat it. UTIs are unfortunately fairly common – around 40% of women will develop one in their lifetime.

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Fertifa is a healthcare benefit designed to enhance business performance

Give your employees access to best-in-class care for fertility, menopause, women's health and men's reproductive health challenges

Discover

Video Transcript

Full glossary of terms relating to reproductive health, neurodiversity and gender identity

In this article:

Contents

‍Fertility & Family-forming

Gender Identity

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Fertility workplace support

Fertility workplace support

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Menopause workplace support

Menopause workplace support

Menopause workplace support

Neonatal Loss

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Fertifa is a healthcare benefit designed to enhance business performance

Fertifa is a healthcare benefit designed to enhance business performance

Fertifa is a healthcare benefit designed to enhance business performance

Fertifa is a healthcare benefit designed to enhance business performance

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