Definitions of Terms Relating to Men's Health and Sexual Health
Provided by Ontario Men's Health Inc, located in Toronto
Definitions from A - G H - N O - R S - Z
Definition of Oral Sex:
When one sexual partner stimulates the genitals of the other using their mouth.
Definition of Orgasm:
The third stage of the sexual response cycle (see Sexual Response) characterized by the peak of sexual tension, resulting in release of tension through muscular contractions of the pelvic floor and other structures in men and women. In men, orgasm typically results in ejaculation when these contractions expel semen from the body via the penis.
Definition of Penile Implant or Penile Prosthesis:
A mechanical device inserted surgically inside the penis which allows a man to have erections.
Definition of Penis:
The multi-purpose male organ which plays an important role in sexual pleasure, reproduction, and elimination of urine and semen.
Definition of Peyronie's disease:
An inflammatory condition of the penis which often results in fibrous tissue build-up in the durable sheath (tunica albuginea) surrounding the spongy penile chambers (cavernosa). This fibrous tissue usually results in a curved or shortened erection, and even Erectile Dysfunction. The cause is unknown.
Definition of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors:
Pills used for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction which allow for better blood flow and better erections by inhibiting the enzyme Phosphodiesterase Type 5 in the penis.
Definition of Premature ejaculation (PE) or Rapid Ejaculation (RE):
A condition in men characterized by persistent or recurrent ejaculation with minimal sexual stimulation. In heterosexuals the ejaculation occurs before, during, or shortly after penetration, and before the man wishes. This results in anxiety and distress in the man.
Definition of Priapism:
An abnormally prolonged, non-pleasurable, and usually painful erection of the penis. This condition is a medical emergency and can result in permanent damage to the penis.
Definition of Prostate Gland:
A male sex gland located below the bladder and in front of the rectum. This walnut-shaped gland produces some of the semen which is important for the transportation and health of the sperm made in the testicles.
Definition of Prostate Cancer:
Cancer of the prostate gland.
Definition of Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test:
A blood test that measures levels of the prostate specific antigen molecule in the blood. Normal prostate glands make PSA, but cancerous prostate glands make more so the level is usually higher. The test is used to screen for Prostate Cancer and to help monitor treatment.
Definition of Prostatectomy:
Surgical removal of the prostate gland.
Definition of Prostatitis:
An acute, chronic, or noninfectious inflammation of the prostate gland. Symptoms can include pain in the scrotum, pelvic region, or rectal area and may sometimes include problems with erections, urination, ejaculation or defecation (bowel movements).
Definition of Puberty:
The state of physical development and emotional changes in teens or pre-teens brought on by hormonal changes from the pituitary gland. Sexual reproduction first becomes possible after the onset of puberty.
Definition of Refractory period:
The time immediately following orgasm during which a man cannot achieve another orgasm.
Definition of Retrograde ejaculation:
A condition that occurs when, at orgasm, the semen is forced backwards into the bladder rather than being ejected from the body via the urethra. This is most common in diabetics when nerve function is impaired.