Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

uterus, prolapsed
A uterus that has moved from
its normal position in the abdominal cavity into a dif-
ferent position, usually a lower position. Prolapsed
uterus may occur because of underlying weak mus-
cles or simply as a result of repeated term pregnan-
cies. It can sometimes interfere with conception,
cause difficulties during pregnancy, and contribute
to pelvic pain. A prolapsed uterus can be treated by
inserting a stabilizing device into the vagina called a
pessary. Sometimes surgery is required.
uterus, tipped
A slight to dramatic placement 
of the uterus that orients it toward the back. A
tipped uterus is common and usually causes no 
difficulty. In severe cases, it can affect choice of
birth control method and cause pain in the pelvic
area, especially during intercourse. Also known as
uterine retroversion.
UTI
Urinary tract infection.
utility
In the analysis of health outcomes, a num-
ber between 0 and 1 that is assigned to a state of
health or an outcome. Perfect health has a utility
value of 1. Death has a utility value of 0.
UV
Ultraviolet. See 
ultraviolet radiation.
UVA
Ultraviolet A. See 
ultraviolet radiation.
UVB
Ultraviolet B. See 
ultraviolet radiation.
UVC
Ultraviolet C. See 
ultraviolet radiation.
uvea
An inner layer of the eye that includes the
iris, the blood vessels that serve the eye (choroid),
and the connective tissue between the iris and the
choroid (the ciliary body).
uveitis
Inflammation of the uvea. Uveitis is a seri-
ous form of eye inflammation and requires aggres-
sive treatment with medications to reduce the
inflammation that can permanently impair vision.
Uveitis can occur by itself or as a feature of an
underlying disease, such as Behcet’s disease, sar-
coidosis, and others.