viral load test – a test that detects whether a virus is present (qualatitive) or that measures the amount of virus (quantitative).
This is usually in a sample of blood, but a viral load test can also be used to check viral levels in other samples including genital fluid, semen or spinal fluid.
Results are given as the number of copies of virus in a millilitre of blood (copies/mL).
randomised controlled trial (RCT) – a type of research study that produces very high quality results. RCTs are often called gold-standard – ie the best evidence.
Study participants are randomly assigned to one of more study arm. One or more arms might use new drugs and another (the control arm) maybe uses the standard of care, or maybe a placebo.
See: randomise
lactation – the process of producing and releasing milk from the mammary glands in your breasts.
Lactation begins in pregnancy when hormonal changes signal the mammary glands to make milk in preparation for the birth of your baby.
abdominal – in the area of your belly
TD (or tid) – a short hand term for medication dosing that means ‘take three times a day’.