Caesarean section (C-section)
A surgical operation to deliver a baby through an incision in the lower abdomen of a pregnant woman.
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CALD
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse.
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Cannabis
An illegal depressant drug which is usually smoked. Some people use cannabis, or marijuana, for medicinal purposes.
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Casual sex
Sexual activity outside of a traditional monogamous relationship.
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CD4 cell
A type of white blood cell (lymphocyte) which is needed to fight infection. CD4 cells are reduced in HIV infection and very low levels are associated with progression to AIDS.
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Cell
The smallest part of the body. The body is made up of millions of cells.
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Cervical cancer
Cancer of the cervix, the opening at the top of the vagina which leads to the uterus (womb). Most commonly caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Cervical cancer can be detected through pap smears, and a vaccine against HPV has recently been developed.
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Cervicitis
Inflammation of the cervix, can indicate the presence of an STI.
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Chancre
A painless ulceration formed during the primary stage of syphilis. Usually found in the genital area.
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Chancroid
An STI which causes genital ulcers.
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Chlamydia
A bacterial STI which may not have symptoms.
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Chronic
An illness that happens over a long time frame (more than 6 months) and sometimes a lifetime.
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Chronic HBV or HCV infection
HBV or HCV infection which lasts at least six months and often for life. These infections can cause liver damage over many years.
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Circumcision
In men, removal of the foreskin.
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Cirrhosis of the liver
Late stage liver disease with severe fibrosis (scarring) of the liver. Can lead to complications including liver failure and liver cancer (HCC).
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Clearance
The removal of (viral) infection from the body. Often used in terms of treatment response. Resolution of (often chronic) infection.
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Clinical trials
Research that tests the effectiveness of experimental medicines on groups of voluntary participants who may benefit.
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Clitoris
A small organ near the opening of the vagina, partially hidden by the labia, which is highly sensitive and can be a source of sexual pleasure.
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Closeted
Refers to the state of being gay, lesbian or same sex attracted in secret, without telling family/friends/or community.
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CMV (Cytomegalovirus)
A common viral infection which can cause opportunistic infection in people with AIDS, and also cause foetal abnormalities if acute infection occurs in pregnancy.
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Cocaine
An illegal stimulant drug that can be snorted, injected, smoked or swallowed.
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Coercion
Occurs when a person is forced to do something they do not agree with e.g. having sex, having tests, treatment or procedure.
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Cognitive impairment
Reduced skills in thinking or reasoning, as a result of a disease or injury.
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Coinfection
Infection with two or more infectious agents e.g. HIV and HCV.
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Coitus Interruptus
A method of contraception where the penis is withdrawn from the vagina before ejaculation.
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Cold sores
Clusters of small blisters on the edge of the lips, caused by Herpes Simplex Virus.
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Combination therapy
Treatment (typically of chronic infections such as HIV or TB) with more than one drug.
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Complementary medicine
Also known as natural therapies and includes treatments such as naturopathy, herbal medicines and acupuncture.
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Condom (female)
The female condom is a soft plastic sheath with two rings, one of which in inserted in the vagina.
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Condom (male)
Male condom is a thin rubber (latex), which fits on a man's erect penis. It is used to prevent pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Confidentiality
A rule which stops health workers, doctors and interpreters from repeating what people tell them or talking about their health to other people.
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Consent
When a person willingly agrees to take part in an activity.
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Contraception
The use of a device or a method which prevents conception, or pregnancy, as a result of sexual activity.
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Counselling
To discuss problems or concerns with someone. When a person or family engages in a process to identify and understand their issues, or make important decisions.
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CT/CAT scan
A special type of x-ray scan which produces detailed images of the inside of the body, used to help diagnose a variety of medical problems.
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