Episiostenosis is a medical term referring to the narrowing of the vaginal entrance. The word is spelled phonetically as /epəsaiəʊˈstɛnəʊsɪs/ with the stress on the third syllable. The prefix "episi-" means vulva or vaginal entrance, while "stenosis" means the abnormal narrowing of a channel or passage. The word can be difficult to spell and pronounce correctly, but it is important to understand its meaning in the medical field for accurate diagnosis and treatment of related conditions.
Episiostenosis is a term used in the field of gynecology to describe a condition characterized by the narrowing or constriction of the vaginal opening, leading to difficulty in vaginal penetration. It is derived from the combination of the words "episio," which refers to the perineum or the area between the vagina and anus, and "stenosis," which denotes an abnormal narrowing of a body passage.
This condition can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or acquired due to trauma or scarring in the area. Congenital episiostenosis may be caused by abnormal development of the hymen, a thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening. In acquired cases, it may result from surgical procedures like episiotomy, which is the surgical enlargement of the vaginal opening during childbirth.
Symptoms of episiostenosis can include pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, difficulty with tampon insertion, or even difficulty with routine hygiene practices. Treatment options for episiostenosis may involve either conservative or surgical approaches. Conservative measures often involve the use of local anesthetics or topical estrogen creams to alleviate symptoms, while surgical intervention may be necessary in more severe cases to remove scar tissue or correct the underlying anatomical abnormalities.
Overall, episiostenosis is a medical term used to describe the abnormal narrowing of the vaginal opening, which can result in discomfort and difficulties in sexual and personal hygiene practices.
Narrowing of the vulvar orifice.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term episiostenosis is a medical term used in gynecology and obstetrics to refer to a narrowing or stenosis of the vaginal opening. The word is derived from the Greek roots episis meaning pubic region or vulva, and stenosis meaning narrowing or stricture. The combination of these roots gives the meaning of narrowing of the vulva or narrowing of the vaginal opening.