Archives

Menopause DEFINITION Menopause is sometimes known as the ‘change of life’, and is defined as the ending of menstruation (when a woman’s periods stop). DESCRIPTION Menopause is the end of egg production (ovulation). This occurs as a result of declining levels of the female sex hormone, oestrogen, which regulates menstruation…. Read Article

Mammography DEFINITION Mammography or a Mammogram is a test that uses low-level x-rays to find abnormal areas in the breast. DESCRIPTION Mammography can detect small tumours that may not be able to be felt by a woman or her Doctor. Mammography can also show other changes in breast tissue and… Read Article

Hot flushes DEFINITION Hot Flushes are the most common symptoms experienced by women as a result of menopause. A Hot Flush is a sudden sensation of intense heat which is usually accompanied by perspiration and reddening of the skin. DESCRIPTION Approximately one third of a woman’s life will be lived… Read Article

Endometriosis DEFINITION Endometriosis is an abnormal gynaecological condition in which the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is found in areas outside the uterus. Endometriosis may lead to infertility in some women. DESCRIPTION Endometriosis can be present in menstruating women from the early age of puberty to menopause. Normally the… Read Article

Contraceptive pill DEFINITION The Pill is the common name given to the oral contraceptive pill. DESCRIPTION There are two main types of oral contraceptive pills: the combined pill and the progestogen-only pill. The Pill consists of a combination of hormonal drugs which help to prevent pregnancy. There are many brands… Read Article

Breast cancer – radiation therapy DEFINITION Radiation Therapy (also called radiotherapy) is the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. DESCRIPTION Radiation Therapy is used after surgery (particularly breast-sparing surgery) to kill any cancer cells that remain in the area. It may also be used before surgery (alone or… Read Article

Breast cancer DEFINITION Breast Cancer is cancer that arises in the breast tissue. It is the most common cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death by cancer in women (lung cancer is the first). In the United States, only 1% of cases of Breast Cancer occur… Read Article

Amenorrhoea DEFINITION Amenorrhoea is the absence of menstruation i.e., either a lack of onset or the cessation of normal menstruation. DESCRIPTION Absence of menstruation may occur for a variety of reasons. It is very important for any woman who has stopped menstruating to consult a medical practitioner immediately for diagnosis. … Read Article