imperforate hymen
A condition where the hymen is unusually thick and covers the vaginal entrance completely often making intercourse difficult or impossible without surgery.
implantation
The embedding of the fertilized egg into the lining of the uterus.
impotence
Out of vogue, but still commonly used, term for erectile dysfunction.
impregnate
To make pregnant.
in vitro fertilization (IVF)
A technique in which sperm and egg are removed from the body, combined in the laboratory, then implanted as a fertilized egg in the woman's uterus. A means of treating infertility; the result is commonly referred to as a "test tube baby."
incest
Sexual activity between relatives or family members.
infanticide
The killing of a baby after it is born.
infatuation
Foolish and irrational love; often known as a "crush."
infectious prostatitis
Infection and inflammation of the prostate gland usually caused by the E. coli bacteria.
infertility
The inability to conceive a child due to factors in the male or female. The term is only medically appropriate after the couple has been trying for a year or more.
infibulation
The ritual practice of cutting off the inner labia and stitching together the outer lips; a part of female circumcision practiced in some cultures.
inhibin
A hormone produced by the testes, which regulates FSH levels, and thus, spermatogenesis.
inhibited orgasm
Persistent difficulty in having orgasm or inability to have orgasm; in males, also called ejaculatory incompetence or retarded ejaculation.
inhibited sexual desire
A sexual disorder characterized by low or absent sexual desire.
inguinal canal
The passageway in the male that leads from the abdomen to the scrotum through which the testes usually descend shortly before birth. It is a frequent site of hernias.
inner lips
The folds of skin on either side of the vaginal entrance, between the outer lips, that enclose the clitoris and the vaginal opening. Also known as labia minora.
intercourse
Sexual activity in which the penis is inserted into an orifice such as the vagina or anus; the term is often modified accordingly (e.g. anal intercourse).
interfemoral intercourse
Sexual activity in which the penis is thrust between the thighs of a partner
internalized homophobia
Hatred of oneself due to homosexual orientation.
interstitial cells
Cells in the testes that secrete male sex hormones; also known as Leydig cells.
intrauterine device
A plastic or metal device that is inserted into the uterus by a physician for contraceptive purposes. The exact mechanism of contraceptive action is unknown. Commonly referred to as an IUD.
introitus
The opening to the vagina.
intromission
Insertion of the penis into the vagina.
involution
Contractions of the uterus following childbirth that return it to its
prebirth size and shape.
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