Some of the most common problems that affect the female reproductive organs include:
These diseases are transmitted from person to person through unprotected sexual intercourse. The most common STDs are:
- Chlamydia: It is a very common STD. People who have chlamydia are often unaware of it, as they do not experience any symptoms. If left untreated, however, it can lead to infertility.
- Genital herpes: It is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and is also very common. People who contract this virus develop small, painful blisters at their genitals.
- Genital warts: They are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and they can be easily passed by skin-to-skin contact.
- Gonorrhea: It is a bacterial-caused STD. If it remains untreated, it can cause serious long-term implications and infertility.
- Syphilis: It is a bacterial infection that can easily be treated, nowadays.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
- Pubic lice: They can be successfully treated with special creams or shampoos.
Pelvic pain describes any pain felt in the lower abdomen area, underneath the belly button. Pelvic pain may be due to an undefined cause, but also due to an ovarian cyst, a bacterial infection, urinary tract infection, constipation or appendicitis. If you experience an acute pelvic pain contact your doctor immediately.
Endometriosis is a long-term chronic condition in which tissue similar to that of the lining of the womb grows in other parts, outside of the uterus. Symptoms of endometriosis include pain, especially during menstrual periods or intercourse. It can also cause infertility. The symptoms of endometriosis can be treated with painkillers and hormonal treatments. Further, surgical procedures (such as laparoscopy for instance) can also be used for removal of the endometrial-like tissues from the easily accessible areas.
Women that have this syndrome develop cysts in their ovaries, which further affect the function of these organs in releasing eggs regularly and in turn, fertility. Additionally, women with PCOS can have high levels of male hormones (or androgens) in their body, which cause excessive hair growth or thinning of hair and hair loss, oily skin and acne. Its symptoms are generally treatable and women with PCOS can become pregnant.
Dysmenorrhea refers to severe period pains that sometimes interfere with normal life activities. These are the result of the womb muscular wall contracting intensively, but causes and reasons of why this is happening are not yet well understood. Dysmenorrhea can be ameliorated with a number of medications and your doctor will prescribe you with the most appropriate for you, depending on your individual requirements and circumstances.