Bacterial Vaginosis - Glossary
Vagina: The passage (birth canal) connecting the female external genitalia with the uterus.Vaginal: Of or having to do with the vagina, the birth canal.
Bacteria: A large group of single-cell microorganisms. Some cause infections and disease in animals and humans. The singular of bacteria is bacterium.
Anaerobic: Able to live without oxygen, as certain bacteria; or, a type of exercise in which short, vigorous bursts of activity requiring little additional oxygen are performed. Opposite of AEROBIC.
Organisms: A generic word for any living species, animal or plant.
Vaginitis: An infection of the vagina usually caused by a fungus. A woman with this condition may have itching or burning and may notice a discharge.
Inflammation: A response of redness, swelling, pain, and a feeling of heat in certain areas, which is meant to protect tissues, affected by injury or disease.
Culture: A culture is the propagation of microorganisms in a growth media. Any body tissue or fluid can be evaluated in the laboratory by culture techniques in order to detect and identify infectious processes. Culture techniques also be used to determine sensitivity to antibiotics.
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Epithelial cells: Refers to the cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body.
Antibiotics: A drug used to treat infections caused by bacteria and other microorganisms.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease: (PID) Inflammation or infection of the internal female genital organs.
Infertility: The inability to produce children.
Tubal Pregnancy: A pregnancy that develops in the fallopian tube rather than in the uterus. Also called ectopic pregnancy.
