Tag: women’s health

Perimenopausal Syndrome: Understanding Symptoms, Treatments, and SelfCare Strategies

JiangRuoan

– Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 58, with an average age of 51.
– Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause and can last for 4 to 8 years.
– Smoking and genetics can influence the timing of natural menopause.
– Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause, lasting 1 to 5 minutes and often accompanied by a cold chill.
– Night sweats, hot flashes at night, can disrupt sleep.
– Treatments for hot flashes and night sweats include lifestyle changes, nonprescription remedies, hormone therapy, and nonhormonal prescription drugs.
– Estrogen decline during menopause can lead to vaginal atrophy, resulting in dryness and thinning of vaginal tissues.
– Over-the-counter lubricants and moisturizers can alleviate pain during intercourse.
– For severe symptoms, low-dose vaginal estrogen products may be necessary.
– Perimenopausal syndrome occurs when a woman has missed her period for 12 consecutive months with no other causes.
– Each woman’s experience of menopause is unique, with some experiencing no physical changes during perimenopause and others having symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal changes.
– Severity of body changes during perimenopause varies, but they are generally considered natural and normal.
– Perimenopause begins in a woman’s 40s or even earlier and involves fluctuating estrogen levels, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, sleep problems, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and bladder problems.
– Treatments are available to alleviate these symptoms.
– Once a woman has gone through 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, she has officially reached menopause.
– Decreased estrogen levels during perimenopause can lead to loss of tissue tone, making women more vulnerable to urinary or vaginal infections and contributing to urinary incontinence.
– Low estrogen levels can cause painful intercourse due to vaginal tissues losing lubrication and elasticity.
– Fertility decreases during perimenopause, but pregnancy is still possible until no periods occur for 12 months.
– Sexual arousal and desire may change during perimenopause, but previous satisfactory sexual intimacy is likely to continue.
– Declining estrogen levels increase the risk of osteoporosis as bone loss outpaces replacement.
– Cholesterol levels change during perimenopause, with an increase in “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and a decrease in “good” cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease.
– Women experiencing disruptive symptoms during perimenopause should seek evaluation and management from a doctor.

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Estrogen: Unveiling Its Role, Benefits, and Health Implications

JiangRuoan

– Estrogen is a chemical messenger that plays a role in reproductive health for women or DFAB (designated female at birth)
– During puberty, estrogen levels rise and lead to the development of secondary sex characteristics
– Estrogen, along with other hormones, plays a role in the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and preparing the uterus for pregnancy
– Estrogen peaks during the days leading up to ovulation, making it the most fertile period for women
– Estrogen thins cervical mucus, making it easier for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg
– Estrogen keeps vaginal walls thick, elastic, and lubricated, reducing pain during sex
– During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen levels drop, leading to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, mood changes, and hot flashes
– Estrogen also affects the reproductive health of men or AMAB individuals, impacting sex drive, erectile function, and sperm production
– Too much or too little estrogen in AMAB individuals can lead to issues such as low sex drive, infertility, and gynecomastia
– Estrogen also has non-reproductive functions, regulating processes in the skeletal, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems that impact overall health.
– Low estrogen can delay puberty, slow or prevent sexual development, and cause symptoms such as painful sex, lower sexual desire, and hot flashes in perimenopause and menopause.
– Menopause and postmenopause result in the ovaries no longer producing estrogen, with fat cells taking over production.
– Removal or injury to the ovaries can also result in lower estrogen levels.
– People assigned male at birth (AMAB) with low estrogen may experience sexual dysfunction, belly fat, reduced sex drive, bone loss, and osteoporosis.
– For transgender women or nonbinary people with penises, low estrogen levels may affect physical appearance, and feminizing hormone therapy with estrogen may be an option. The article discusses the effects of estrogen hormone on physical features in individuals, including softer facial features, less body hair, and the development of breasts and hips.

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Pap Smear: Unveiling the Importance of Early Detection

JiangRuoan

– A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test, is a procedure used to test for cervical cancer in women.
– It involves collecting cells from the cervix, the lower end of the uterus.
– Detecting cervical cancer early through a Pap smear increases the chance of a cure.
– A Pap smear can also detect changes in cervical cells that may indicate future cancer development.
– It is usually done in conjunction with a pelvic exam.
– In women over 30, the Pap test may be combined with a test for human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer.
– Doctors generally recommend beginning Pap testing at age 21.
– For women ages 21 to 65, Pap testing is usually repeated every three years.
– Women over 30 may consider Pap testing every five years if combined with HPV testing or opt for HPV testing instead.
– Certain risk factors, such as a diagnosis of cervical cancer, exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), HIV infection, weakened immune system, or a history of smoking, may require more frequent Pap smears regardless of age.
– After a total hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus and cervix), the need for ongoing Pap smears should be discussed with a doctor.
– Pap smears are a safe way to screen for cervical cancer.
– False-negative results are possible due to factors such as inadequate collection of cells or blood or inflammatory cells obscuring the abnormal cells.
– Cervical cancer takes several years to develop, so if one test doesn’t detect abnormal cells, the next test likely will.
– Tips for preparing for a Pap smear include avoiding intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medicines or spermicidal products before the test.
– Scheduling a Pap smear during menstrual periods is not recommended.
– A Pap smear is a medical procedure performed in a doctor’s office.
– The patient may be asked to undress and lie down on an exam table with their knees bent.
– A speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold the walls apart and allow the doctor to see the cervix.
– Samples of cervical cells are taken using a soft brush and spatula.
– After the Pap smear, the patient can go about their day without restrictions.
– The samples collected may be examined under a microscope in a laboratory.
– Abnormal results may include atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS), atypical glandular cells, and squamous cell cancer or adenocarcinoma cells.
– Further testing may be necessary to determine the significance of abnormal cells.
– Colposcopy may be performed using a colposcope to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva.
– A tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for further analysis and diagnosis.

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IUD: Empowering Women’s Health Through Safe and Effective Birth Control

JiangRuoan

– An IUD is a small T-shaped plastic and copper device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
– When inserted correctly, IUDs are more than 99% effective.
– The IUD releases copper into the womb, altering cervical mucus to make it difficult for sperm to reach an egg and survive.
– It can also prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
– The IUD can be left in for between 5 and 10 years, depending on the type.
– It can be inserted at any time during the menstrual cycle as long as the person is not pregnant.
– It can be taken out at any time by a trained doctor or nurse, and pregnancy is possible immediately after removal.
– Side effects include potentially heavier, longer, or more painful periods in the first 3 to 6 months, as well as spotting or bleeding between periods.
– There is a small risk of infection or the IUD being pushed out or moved.
– Painkillers can be taken after insertion to manage discomfort.
– It may not be suitable for individuals with previous pelvic infections.
– The IUD does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so additional methods like condoms may be necessary.
– If an IUD is fitted at age 40 or older, it can be left in until menopause or no longer needing contraception.
– Before insertion, a healthcare professional will check the position and size of the womb and may test for infections and provide antibiotics.
– The fitting process takes about 20 to 30 minutes, with the IUD insertion itself taking around 5 minutes. Local anesthesia can be used for comfort.
– After having an IUD fitted, you may experience period-type cramps and bleeding for a few days.
– It is advised to get the IUD checked by a GP after 3 to 6 weeks.
– Issues such as pain in the lower abdomen, high temperature, or abnormal discharge may indicate an infection.
– An IUD has two thin threads that hang down from the womb into the vagina, and they can be checked to ensure the IUD is in place.
– If the threads cannot be felt or if the IUD has moved, additional contraception should be used and a GP or nurse should be consulted.
– An IUD can be removed by a trained doctor or nurse at any time.
– Additional contraception should be used for 7 days before removing the IUD if not getting another one.
– Most people with a womb can use an IUD, but it may not be suitable for those who are pregnant, have an untreated STI, or have womb or cervix problems.
– Those who have had an ectopic pregnancy or have an artificial heart valve should consult their GP before getting an IUD.
– An IUD can usually be fitted 4 weeks after giving birth, and alternative contraception should be used until then.
– An IUD can be used immediately after giving birth, and it will not affect milk supply.
– An IUD can be fitted immediately after an abortion or miscarriage, providing immediate protection against pregnancy.
– Advantages of using an IUD include long-term pregnancy prevention (5 or 10 years depending on the type), immediate effectiveness, no hormonal side effects, and no interruption of sex.
– Disadvantages of using an IUD include the possibility of heavier, longer, or more painful periods, lack of protection against STIs requiring the use of additional condoms, potential for pelvic infections if not treated, and the possibility of vaginal bleeding and pain.
– Risks of using an IUD include a small chance of pelvic infection within 20 days of insertion, slightly higher chance of recurring thrush, potential rejection or displacement of the IUD by the womb, and rare cases of the IUD making a hole in the womb.
– If an IUD fails and pregnancy occurs, there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy.
– An IUD can be obtained for free from contraception clinics, sexual health or genitourinary medicine clinics, GP surgeries, and some young people’s services.
– Contraception services are free and confidential for individuals under the age of 16.
– If a person under 16 wants contraception, the healthcare professional will not inform their parents or carer as long as they believe the individual fully understands the information and decisions being made.
– Doctors and nurses only disclose information if they believe the individual is at risk of harm, such as abuse.

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Understanding Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Support

JiangRuoan

– Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
– It can cause severe pelvic pain and make it harder to get pregnant.
– The cause of endometriosis is unknown, and there is no known way to prevent it.
– There is no cure for endometriosis, but its symptoms can be treated with medicines or surgery.
– It causes a chronic inflammatory reaction and can result in the formation of scar tissue.
– Different types of endometriosis lesions have been described, including superficial, cystic ovarian, and deep endometriosis.
– Symptoms of endometriosis include severe pelvic pain, pain during sex or when using the bathroom, trouble getting pregnant, heavy bleeding, bloating, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
– Retrograde menstruation, cellular metaplasia, and stem cells are thought to contribute to the development of endometriosis.
– Estrogen is known to be involved in endometriosis, but the relationship is complex.
– Endometriosis has significant social, public health, and economic implications.
– It can decrease quality of life due to severe pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and infertility.
– Pain can prevent individuals from going to work or school.
– Painful sex due to endometriosis can impact sexual health.
– There is currently no known way to prevent endometriosis.
– Early diagnosis and management can slow or halt the progression of the disease.
– Several screening tools and tests have been proposed but none are validated to accurately identify the disease.
– Ultrasonography or MRI can be used to detect certain forms of endometriosis.
– Histologic verification through surgical/laparoscopic visualization can help confirm diagnosis.
– Treatments for endometriosis vary based on symptom severity and desire for pregnancy.
– No treatments cure the disease.
– Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and painkillers like ibuprofen can be used to treat pain.
– Hormonal medicines and contraceptive methods can help control pain.
– Fertility medicines and procedures may be used for those having difficulty getting pregnant.
– Surgery is sometimes used to remove endometriosis lesions and scar tissue.
– Treatment options depend on individual preferences, effectiveness, side effects, safety, cost, and availability.
– Raising awareness can lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
– Hormonal management can have adverse side effects and may not be suitable for individuals with endometriosis who want to get pregnant.
– Success in reducing pain symptoms and increasing pregnancy rates through surgery depends on the severity of the disease.
– Lesions may recur even after successful treatment, and pelvic floor muscle abnormalities can contribute to chronic pelvic pain.
– Physiotherapy and complementary treatments may benefit patients with secondary changes in the pelvis and central sensitization.
– Treatment options for infertility caused by endometriosis include surgical removal, ovarian stimulation with intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization.
– Lack of awareness among the general public and healthcare providers can lead to a delay in diagnosis.
– Limited awareness of endometriosis among primary healthcare providers can result in a lack of medical treatment for symptomatic management.
– Access to specialized surgery is sub-optimal in many countries, particularly low and middle-income countries.
– Screening and accurate prediction tools for endometriosis are lacking.
– Non-invasive diagnostic methods and medical treatments that do not prevent pregnancy are needed.
– WHO recognizes the impact of endometriosis on sexual and reproductive health and aims to stimulate effective policies and interventions globally.
– WHO partners with various stakeholders, including research institutions and patient support groups, to address endometriosis.
– WHO collaborates with stakeholders to collect and analyze endometriosis prevalence data for decision-making.

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Uterine Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies

JiangRuoan

– Uterine prolapse occurs when muscles and tissue in the pelvis weaken, allowing the uterus to drop into the vagina
– Nearly half of all women between ages 50 and 79 have uterine prolapse
– The main cause is weakened muscles and tissue in the pelvic floor that can’t support the weight of the uterus
– Risk factors include giving birth (highest risk), vaginal delivery, menopause, being Caucasian, being overweight, and smoking
– Many women with uterine prolapse have no symptoms, but possible symptoms include leakage of urine, inability to completely empty the bladder, feeling of heaviness or fullness in the pelvis, bulging in the vagina, lower-back pain, aching or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis, and constipation
– Diagnosing uterine prolapse involves a physical exam, possibly a cystoscopy to examine the bladder and urethra, and an MRI to get a better look at the kidneys and other pelvic organs.

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Ovary Health: Understanding the Key to Fertility Success

JiangRuoan

– The ovaries are located on either side of the womb in the pelvis.
– Each woman has two ovaries.
– The ovaries are oval in shape and about four centimeters long.
– The ovaries produce eggs for fertilization.
– The ovaries produce reproductive hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and androgens.
– The functions of the ovaries are controlled by hormones released from the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
– Ovulation is the process of releasing an egg from the ovary.
– A female baby is born with around two million eggs, which decreases to about 400,000 by puberty.
– Menopause refers to the end of a woman’s reproductive years, usually around 51 years old.
– Menopause is caused by the loss of follicles in the ovary.
– The ovaries produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle.
– Estrogen production dominates in the first half of the menstrual cycle, progesterone production dominates in the second half.
– Ovaries also produce small amounts of male hormones called androgens.
– Medical conditions that affect the ovaries can decrease fertility.
– Premature ovarian insufficiency is when the ovaries stop functioning before the age of 40.
– Hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for restoring missing ovarian hormones.
– Conditions like Turner syndrome or damage from treatments like chemotherapy can affect ovarian function.
– Polycystic ovary syndrome affects 8-13% of women of childbearing age.
– PCOS can cause stunted follicles, cysts in the ovaries, excess male hormones, irregular or absent periods, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.
– Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods during reproductive years and can be caused by various factors.
– Factors like low body weight, excessive exercise, and psychological stress can affect ovarian function.
– Disorders of the pituitary gland, such as hypopituitarism caused by pituitary tumors or excess prolactin, can also impact ovarian function.

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Myomectomy: Understanding the Surgical Procedure for Uterine Fibroids

JiangRuoan

– Myomectomy: a procedure to remove fibroids from the uterus
– Fibroids: non-cancerous tumors in the uterus
– Uterus: female reproductive organ where the baby grows during pregnancy
– Recurring problems: likelihood of fibroids re-growing after myomectomy
– Abdominal myomectomy: major surgical procedure with incision in lower abdomen
– Laparoscopic myomectomy: removal of certain fibroids using small incisions and laparoscope
– Hysteroscopic myomectomy: not mentioned in the article
– Recovery time: four to six weeks for abdominal myomectomy, shorter for laparoscopic myomectomy
– Risks: infection, wound infection (rare)
– Scar: visible scar near pubic hairline for abdominal myomectomy, small scars from incisions
– Blood transfusion: may be required in some cases of abdominal myomectomy
– Gas: used during the procedure and released afterwards
– C-section: recommended for future pregnancies to reduce risk of uterine opening during labor
– Hospital stay: usually one night for myomectomy procedure
– Home recovery: two to four weeks after myomectomy procedure

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Hysteroscopy: A Window into the Female Reproductive System

JiangRuoan

– Hysteroscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the womb
– It can be used to investigate symptoms or problems such as heavy periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, and pelvic pain
– It can also be used to diagnose conditions such as fibroids and polyps
– Hysteroscopy can be used to treat conditions and problems such as removing fibroids, polyps, and intrauterine devices
– The procedure is usually done on an outpatient or day-case basis
– Anesthesia may or may not be required
– A speculum may be inserted into the vagina during the procedure
– Fluid is pumped inside to facilitate visualization, and pictures are sent to a monitor for observation and treatment of abnormalities
– The procedure can take up to 30 minutes, or shorter if done only for diagnosis
– Recovery may include discomfort similar to period cramps, spotting or bleeding for a few days, and avoiding sex for a week
– Most women can return to their normal activities the following day
– There is a small risk of complications, such as accidental damage to the womb or cervix
– Excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery, but can be treated with medication or another procedure
– Infection of the womb can be treated with antibiotics
– Feeling faint after a hysteroscopy affects 1 in every 200 women
– Hysteroscopy will only be performed if the benefits outweigh the risks.

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