Naprogesic - Glossary of Terms
Endometrium:
Is the lining of the uterus which grows during the menstrual cycle under the influence of oestrogen and progesterone. The endometrium grows in anticipation of nurturing an implanted embryo in the event of a pregnancy. It sloughs off if implantation does not occur.
Fallopian tube:
The two tubes which connect the ovaries to the uterus. They allow the egg to pass through to the uterus.
Menopause:
Cessation of the menstrual cycle. This usually occurs around the age of 50.
Oestrogen:
The female sex hormone which controls the development of sexual characteristics
Ovary:
One of two small oval bodies situated on either side of the uterus. The ovary is where the eggs are developed and released during ovulation.
Ovulation:
The discharge of an ovum from the ovary.
Ovum:
The female reproductive cell which, after fertilization, develops into an egg.
Progesterone:
The hormone secreted after ovulation during the second half of the menstrual cycle. It prepares the lining of the uterus (endometrium) for implantation of a fertilized egg and allows for complete shedding of the endometrium at the time of menstruation.
Prostaglandins:
A group of chemicals which tend to stimulate contractions of uterus and may cause cramps.
Uterus:
The muscular organ at the top of the vagina. Babies develop in the uterus and menstrual blood comes from the uterus.