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Anatomy of the Prostate Gland Facts about the prostate gland The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut. It's located just below the bladder, and it surrounds the urethra. This is a tube that carries urine and semen out of the body. The prostate is partly muscular and

Calculating a Due Date A typical pregnancy lasts, on average, 280 days, or 40 weeks—starting with the first day of the last normal menstrual period as day 1. An estimated due date can be calculated by following steps 1 through 3: First, determine the first day of your last

Breast Infections and Inflammations What is lactational mastitis? The most common type of breast infection is lactational mastitis. This happens when a person is breastfeeding. The nipples become cracked and sore. This allows bacteria from the baby's mouth to enter the ducts and

Hormones During Pregnancy Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy. Several hormones play major roles during pregnancy. These are: Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG). This hormone is made only during pregnancy. It is made almost entirely in the

Joint Replacement Surgery What is joint replacement surgery? Joint replacement surgery removes and replaces an arthritic or damaged joint with an artificial joint (prosthesis). It may be considered only after other treatment choices have failed to ease pain or improve function

Eye Care Specialists What is an ophthalmologist? An ophthalmologist is either a medical doctor (MD) or an osteopathic doctor (DO). They provide complete eye care. This includes exams, diagnosis, and treatment for many eye disorders. They are skilled in all types of eye care. They

Topic Index - Pregnancy and Childbirth Pregnancy & Childbirth Home Planning a Pregnancy Signs of Pregnancy / The Pregnancy Test Calculating a Due Date Prenatal Medical Care Pregnancy Pregnancy Overview Anatomy: Fetus in Utero The First Trimester (0 - 12 Weeks) The Second

Anatomy: Fetus in Utero Amniotic sac. A thin-walled sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The sac is filled with liquid made by the fetus (amniotic fluid) and the membrane that covers the fetal side of the placenta (amnion). This protects the fetus from injury. It also

Anatomy of the Endocrine System The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to control and coordinate your body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and mood. The following are key

The Thyroid Gland Anatomy of the thyroid gland The thyroid gland is found in the front of the neck. It sits below the voice box (larynx) and on top of the trachea (windpipe). It has a butterfly-like shape. The small, 2-inch gland consists of 2 lobes, 1 on each side of the