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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 my 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

Smoking and Pregnancy The risks involved with smoking during pregnancy Fewer women are smoking during their pregnancy now than in the past. But many women still smoke. Even if a pregnant woman doesn't smoke, she may be exposed to secondhand smoke at home, at work, or in social

Common Tests During Pregnancy These are some of the more common tests done during pregnancy. First trimester prenatal screening tests First trimester screening is a combination of fetal ultrasound and maternal blood testing. It can help find out the risk that the fetus has

Weight Gain During Pregnancy Weight gain in pregnancy varies from woman to woman. It also depends on body type. Talk with your healthcare provider about the amount of weight gain that's best for you. Also talk with your provider about what to eat and the best ways to get exercise