Glossary of terms

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Hepatitis B — A sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus that can result in serious liver damage, even death. Infection occurs through contact with infected blood, semen, vaginal fluids or saliva. Symptoms include nausa, vomiting, headache, fever, dark urine and jaundice. It is the only sexually transmitted infection that has a vaccine to prevent infection.

Hepatitis C — An infection caused by a virus. Infection occurs through contact with another person’s infected blood, most often from sharing needles with someone who has Hepatitis C. There are usually not any symptoms with Hepatitis C. It is diagnosed through a blood test and can cause liver damage.

Herpes — A sexually transmitted infection caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) — The virus that usually leads to AIDS; passed by humans to other humans and weakens the immune system.

Heterosexual — A person who is attracted to a person of the opposite sex.

Homosexual — A person who is attracted to a person of the same sex.

Hormones — Chemicals and substances that a body makes to help other organs do their job.

HPV — The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that may cause small, painless bumps around the genitals, anus and/or mouth. The virus cannot be cured. Some strains of the HPV virus are linked to an increased risk of cervical cancer among women, which is why it is very important to get regular Pap smears.  Early detection can result in the prevention of cervical cancer.

Hymen — A thin piece of skin partially covering the opening of the vagina, sometimes intact with women who have not had sexual intercourse.

Hysterectomy — The surgical removal of the female uterus and sometimes the ovaries.

Immune — To be protected/safe from something.

Immune System — A group of cells that kills germs and keeps the body healthy.

Infected — When someone has a germ.

IUD (Intra Uterine Device) — A contraceptive device inserted in the uterus which prevents the fertilization of an egg.