General anesthesia
Drug induced depression of the central nervous system. Results in unconsciousness and loss of reflexes and muscle tone.
General or spinal anesthetic
Drugs used to bring on sleep during surgery so that pain is not felt.
Genital
All parts of the reproductive system. The visible body parts are commonly referred to as genitals.
Gland
An organ or group of cells that produces secretions.
Hematoma
Contained mass of blood.
Hematometra
Accumulation of blood in the uterus.
Hemoturia
Blood in the urine.
Hesitancy
Delayed start of urine flow after the need to urinate is felt and the person wishes to urinate.
Hormone
A chemical substance produced by the body that has a specific regulatory effect on a target organ.
Hypomenorrhea
Menstrual flow that is decreased from what is normal for that woman.
Hysterectomy
Removal of the uterus.
Hysteroscopy
Visualization of the inside of the uterus utilizing a scope.
I.V. Sedation
Form of local anesthesia where medications are administered to the patient intravenously.
In-Fast Female Sling System
Trademark for female sling system from American Medical Systems; sling anchored to bone transvaginally to support urethra and restore urinary control.
Incision
A surgical cut into tissue or an organ of the body.
Incontinence
The inability to control release of urine from the bladder (see also Urinary Incontinence).
Incontinence from surgery
Urinary incontinence that can occur following hysterectomies, Cesarean sections, prostatectomies and lower intestinal or rectal procedures.
Indwelling catheter
A small, hollow tube inserted into the urethra to drain urine from the bladder into a leg bag; can be either temporary or in place 24 hours a day.
Infection
Infection can happen with any surgery. It occurs when bacteria or virus enter the body through the incisions. It can happen during surgery or after surgery when the wound is healing. If it occurs after an implant surgery, the implant may have to be removed.
Internal os
The internal opening of the cervix into the uterus.
