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 ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male):
The constellation of symptoms that can occur in men due to the age related decline in testosterone circulating in the bloodstream. These symptoms are most commonly, decreased libido (sex drive), fatigue, decreased muscle mass and strength, irritability and depression. Also know as "the Andropause".
Definition of Andropause:
See ADAM above.
Definition of Angina:
The symptom of chest, arm, neck or jaw pain which can occur when an artery, or arteries, to the heart muscle are blocked, usually due to cholesterol plaque buildup (or rupture of these plaques) in the arteries.
Definition of Anorgasmia:
The inability of a man or woman to reach orgasm despite adequate sexual stimulation.
Definition of Arousal:
Sexual excitement occurring with sexual stimulation
Definition of Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy or BPH:
A non cancerous growth of the prostate which occurs gradually as men age, and can cause a slower and weaker urine stream and frequent awakening at night to urinate.
Definition of Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA):
Damage to the brain caused by either a blocked artery to the brain, or by bleeding in the brain. This can result in permanent symptoms such as weakness, paralysis, trouble speaking or understanding, and loss of vision. More commonly known as "a Stroke".
Definition of Circumcision:
Surgery that removes the foreskin covering the glans (head) of the penis.
Definition of Clitoris:
The hooded female body part at the top of the female genitals, above the urethra and below the pubic bone. The clitoris is important for sexual arousal and orgasm in women.
Definition of Condom:
A thin sheath, usually made of latex, applied over the penis during sexual activity to help prevent pregnancy and to lessen the risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases.
Definition of Contraception:
Medications or devices used to prevent pregnancy.
Definition of Corpus Cavernosun and Corpus Spongiosum (plural: Corpora):
The spongy vascular chambers in the penis which allow for erection when filled with blood.
Definition of Diabetes:
Medical conditions which lead to elevated levels of glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. This elevated sugar can lead to many other health problems. People with diabetes are at much higher risk of developing vascular diseases. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 occurring in children and young adults, and Type 2 which usually has its onset in adulthood.
Definition of Delayed Ejaculation or Delayed Orgasm:
Difficulty achieving orgasm or ejaculation, which may not occur even after prolonged sexual stimulation.
Definition of Digital rectal exam:
A test done by placing the examiner's gloved finger into the anal canal to determine the size and texture of the prostate gland and to detect any abnormalities of the lower bowel wall (rectum).
Definition of Epididymis:
A collection of tubules that sits behind each testicle. Each epididymis collects and stores sperm produced in the testicles.
Definition of Epididymitis:
An inflammation of the epididymis, either from an infectious or non-infectious source. This condition usually results in pain in the scrotum.
Definition of Ejaculation:
A sudden ejection of fluid called semen from the penis following sexual climax or orgasm.
Definition of Erectile dysfunction:
The inability to attain and/or maintain an erection suitable for satisfactory sexual relations.
Definition of Erection:
The rigid state of the male penis which occurs when more blood flows into the erectile chambers (cavernosa) of the penis during sexual stimulation or for other physiologic reasons.
Definition of Foreskin:
The fold of skin that covers the glans (head) of the penis.
Definition of Gay:
Referring to individuals who are attracted to people of the same sex. Also referred to by the more technical term Homosexual.
Definition of Glans Penis:
The head of the penis. This is the portion of the penis which has the most nerve endings and is the most sensitive.