A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Abstinence - A literal definition of abstinence refers to some form of voluntary self-denial. This could be refraining from sugar, alcohol, etc. Today it generally refers to a intentional avoidance of sexual activity.

AIDS - Acquired immune deficiency virus.

Amenorrhoea - The cessation of menstruation. Primary amenorrhoea refers to menstruation failing to occur at puberty. Secondary amenorrhoea occurs when menstruation begins but then ceases.

Birth Control - Voluntarily inhibiting the number of children that are conceived.

Breast - Generally the front of the chest. Specifically, when referring to a woman, the mammary glands. The breast is composed mostly of fat which protects the milk-producing mammary gland.

Cervix - The bottom of the uterus. The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina.

Cervical Cap - A female contraceptive. A cervical cap is a rubber cup that fits over the cervix to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus. A cervical cap is a barrier contraceptive and is usually used with a spermacide to kill sperm.

Chlamydia - A bacterial sexually transmitted disease. The effects of Chlamydia are similar to gonorrhea.

Coitus - Sexual intercourse between a man and a woman.

Coitus Interruptus - A contraceptive method involving the man withdrawing from the woman's vagina before ejaculating. The intent is that fertilization never takes place because the sperm does not enter the vagina. Coitus interruptus does nothing to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and is not reliable as a form of contraceptive.

Conception - The joining of the sperm with the egg. Also refers to the beginning of pregnancy defined by the blastocyst being attached to the endometrium.

Condom - A barrier contraceptive. The male condom, usually rubber, is a sheath that fits over the man's penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. The male condom is more effective than most other contraceptives in preventing transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. A female condom is a bit like the reverse of a male condom. A rubber cup is inserted into the vagina with a portion of the condom remaining outside of the vagina, sometimes covering the labia.

Contraceptive - A device or substance that prevents pregnancy.