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Cervical Cancer: Introduction What is cancer? We've all heard of cancer at some point in our lives—cancer screenings, cancer care, and maybe even cancer treatment. But what is cancer? And what steps can you take to prevent it? Cancer is a disease that begins when some cells in

The Menstrual Cycle: An Overview What is ovulation? When a young woman reaches puberty, she starts to ovulate. This is when a mature egg or ovum is released from one of the ovaries. The ovaries are the two female reproductive organs found in the pelvis. If the egg is fertilized

Endometrial Cancer: Diagnosis How is endometrial cancer diagnosed? If your healthcare provider thinks you might have endometrial cancer, usually because of abnormal vaginal bleeding, you'll need certain exams and tests to be sure. Endometrial cancer is cancer that starts in the

Uterine Fibroids What are uterine fibroids? Fibroids are firm, dense tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They develop in the uterus. About 1 in 5 to 1 in 2 women of reproductive age have fibroids, but not all are diagnosed. Fibroids are very common

Endometriosis What is endometriosis? The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium. Normally, if a woman doesn't get pregnant, this tissue is shed each month during her period. In endometriosis, tissue that looks and acts like endometrial tissue implants outside the

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a group of physical and emotional symptoms many people may have in the days before their period starts. Symptoms usually stop when the period starts or shortly after. It’s thought to

Making the Home Environment Safe What's involved in making the home environment safe? When caring at home for an ill, aging, or disabled person of any age, it's important to think about home safety. Print out this helpful checklist. Then use it to check for safety issues around

Handwashing What is the best way to wash your hands? At home or work, wash your hands often—and correctly: Use clean, running water. The water can be warm or cold; either works well. Wet your hands before applying soap. Rub your soapy hands together for at least 20 seconds. Wash

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) What is benign prostatic hyperplasia? Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is also called benign prostatic hypertrophy. It means that the prostate gland has become very large and may cause problems passing urine. BPH is not cancer. It's a common

Kidney Failure What is kidney failure? Kidney failure happens when damage results in loss of normal kidney function. There are two types of kidney failure—acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure starts abruptly. It can sometimes be reversed. Chronic kidney failure progresses