Here we’ll define many of the common terms you’ll encounter when talking about sex and your health.
If there’s a term you think should be here, feel free to “Submit a Term” and we’ll review it.
There are currently 17 terms in this directory beginning with the letter P.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Disease affecting girls which causes pain in the lower tummy. It can lead to an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility.
PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)
A medication prescribed by a health care provider to prevent HIV infection after someone may have been exposed to HIV. It can be taken up to 72 hours (three days) after possible exposure. Studies have shown that it can be up to 80-percent effective at preventing HIV infection. PEP does not prevent other STDs or pregnancy.
Placenta
The sac in which a fetus develops during pregnancy that provides nourishment and protection.
PMS
Short for premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual tension, it is caused by hormonal changes in the body during the days leading up to a woman's period. It can make some girls feel moody, sad, irritable and tired.
PMT
Short for premenstrual syndrome or premenstrual tension, it is caused by hormonal changes in the body during the days leading up to a woman's period. It can make some girls feel moody, sad, irritable and tired.
Pre-Cum
Also known as pre-ejaculate, a small amount of fluid that is made in the Cowper’s gland and that comes out of the tip of the penis shortly after a boy or man gets an erection. It is designed to clean the urethra of urine and coat the walls to increase the chances of sperm surviving once they are ejaculated. Some males always have sperm in their pre-cum and others never do. Pre-cum can transmit sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
A medication prescribed by a health care provider to prevent HIV infection before someone is exposed to the virus. It is recommended for people with a high risk of exposure to HIV through sex or injection drug use. PrEP does not prevent other sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy.
Prostate Gland
A walnut-sized gland just below a man's bladder. It produces the fluid that is called cum.
Puberty
The time when children's bodies start to change and become mature. Puberty usually starts between the ages of 9 and 13. Puberty takes a long time and affects you emotionally as well as physically. Puberty is triggered by certain hormones or chemicals, inside your body.
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