Webster's New World Medical Dictionary

premature ejaculation
Ejecting semen from the
penis, usually accompanied by orgasm, occurring
sooner than a man wants during sexual activity.
Premature ejaculation is characterized by a lack of
voluntary control over ejaculation that interferes
with optimal sexual or psychological well-being in
either partner.
premature ventricular contraction
Contraction
of the lower chambers of the heart, the ventricles,
that occurs earlier than usual because of abnormal
electrical activity of the ventricles. Abbreviated PVC.
The premature contraction is followed by a pause as
the heart’s electrical system resets itself; the contrac-
tion following the pause is usually more forceful than
normal. These more forceful contractions are fre-
quently perceived as palpitations.
premenstrual dysphoric disorder
An unusu-
ally severe form of premenstrual syndrome charac-
terized by drastic mood swings, anger, depression,
irritability, tension, sleep and appetite changes,
fatigue, and physical problems such as pain or
bloating. Abbreviated PMDD. Symptoms generally
begin the week before menstruation and end a few
days after menstruation has begun. Treatment can
involve the use of antidepressant medications of the
SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) type.
premenstrual syndrome
A combination of
physical and mood disturbances that occur in the
last half of a woman’s menstrual cycle, after ovula-
tion, and normally end with the onset of the men-
strual flow. Abbreviated PMS. Physical features of
PMS include breast tenderness and bloating.
Psychological changes can include anger, mood
changes, and depression. The most helpful diagnos-
tic tool for PMS is a menstrual diary. Treatment of
PMS includes exercise, dietary changes, emotional
support of family and friends, and medications,
including diuretics, pain killers, oral contracep-
tives, drugs that suppress ovarian function, and anti-
depressants.