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101. Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is the most frequent genetic cause for mild to moderate mental retardation and related medical problems. It is caused by a chromosomal abnormality. For an unknown reason, a change in cell growth results in 47 instead of the usual 46 chromosomes. This extra chromosome changes the orderly development of the body and brain.

102. ductules

small milk ducts in the breast leading to the mammary or lactiferous ducts.

103. eating disorder

eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, involve serious problems with eating. This could include an extreme decrease of food or severe overeating, as well as feelings of distress and concern about body shape or weight.

104. ectopic pregnancy

a pregnancy that is not in the uterus. It happens when a fertilized egg settles and grows in a place other than the inner lining of the uterus. Most happen in the fallopian tube, but can happen in the ovary, cervix, or abdominal cavity.

105. electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

an external, noninvasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

106. electrolyte imbalance

when the amounts of sodium and potassium in the body become too much or too little.

107. embryo

a period during pregnancy where the baby has rapid growth, and the main external features begin to take form.

108. endometrial cancer

cancer that develops from the endometrium, or the inner lining of the uterus (womb).

109. endometriosis

a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows in other areas of the body, usually inside the abdominal cavity, but acts as if it were inside the uterus. Blood shed monthly from the misplaced tissue has no place to go, and tissues surrounding the area of endometriosis may become inflamed or swollen. This can produce scar tissue. Symptoms include painful menstrual cramps that can be felt in the abdomen or lower back, or pain during or after sexual activity, irregular bleeding, and infertility. Also called by feminists, ìan uptight uterus.î

110. endoscopy

a diagnostic procedure in which a thin, flexible tube is introduced through the mouth or rectum to view parts of the digestive tract.

111. engorgement

condition in which breasts become overly full of milk. Engorged breasts may feel swollen, hard, and painful. Engorgement can lead to blocked milk ducts.

112. epidural

During labor a woman may be offered an epidural, where a needle is inserted into the epidural space at the end of the spine, to numb the lower body and reduce pain. This allows a woman to have more energy and strength for the end stage of labor, when it is time to push the baby out of the birth canal.

113. epilepsy

a physical disorder that involves recurrent seizures. It is caused by sudden changes in how the brain works.

114. episiotomy

This is a procedure where an incision is made in the perineum (area between the vagina and the anus) to make the vaginal opening larger in order to prevent the area from tearing during delivery.

115. erectile dysfunction

inability to achieve and keep a penile erection.

116. esophagus

tube that connects the throat with the stomach.

117. estrogen

a group of female hormones that are responsible for the development of breasts and other secondary sex characteristics in women. Estrogen is produced by the ovaries and other body tissues. Estrogen, along with progesterone, is important in preparing a woman’s body for pregnancy.

118. exhibitionism

when someone exposes him/herself in public

119. fallopian tubes

part of the female reproductive system, these tubes carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus (or womb).

120. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

a federal regulation that allows eligible employees to take up to 12 work weeks of unpaid leave during any 12 month period for the serious health condition of the employee, parent, spouse or child, or for pregnancy or care of a newborn child, or for adoption or foster care of a child.

121. fatigue

a feeling of lack of energy, weariness or tiredness.

122. fatty tissue

connective tissue that contains stored fat. Also referred to as adipose tissue. Fatty tissue in the breast protects the breast from injury.

123. feces

waste eliminated from the bowels.

124. fever

body temperature is raised above normal and is usually a sign of infection or illness.

125. flat nipple

a nipple that cannot be compressed outward, does not protrude or become erect when stimulated or cold.

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