10 Common Gynaecological Problems Faced by Women

Every woman likes to maintain good personal hygiene, but sometimes gynaecological problems pop up like an uninvited guest. So, which are some common gynaecological problems that should evoke your concern? Let us increase your general awareness by discussing some common gynaecological issues, in the following article.

Most Common Gynaecological Disorders

The gynaecological diseases affect the reproductive organs such as uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, external genitalia and breasts of a woman and thus it may affect her body’s sexual functions too. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge the symptoms and act promptly to avoid the complications. Following are some of the most common gynaecological issues:

1. PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

A woman having this condition may have prolonged or infrequent menstrual cycles. She may also have increased amounts of androgen, a male hormone, in her body.  In this condition, several follicles may appear on the ovaries, which may cause hindrance in releasing the egg.

Causes

The most common reasons that may cause PCOS are excessive levels of androgen in the body, genetic causes or because of excessive insulin in the body.

Symptoms

Women suffering from PCOS may experience abdominal obesity, acne, may become prone to diabetes, experience menstrual abnormality or may face infertility issues.

Treatment

Reducing weight may be suggested, exercising and yoga may be helpful. Medicines can be prescribed for symptomatic relief.

2. Vaginitis

Any woman who is in her reproductive phase may experience this condition that is characterised by inflammation in the vagina.

Causes

Vaginitis may occur due to infection, sexual intercourse, taking antibiotic medication, using spermicidal creams or because of changing hormones.

Symptoms

If you have vaginitis, you may face pain while peeing, vaginal itching or irritation, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and other such symptoms.

Treatment

Your doctor may prescribe you pills, cream or gel to cure your condition.

3. UTI or Urinary Tract Infection

UTI is one of the most common gynaecological problems that are faced by women of all age groups. This usually occurs when the bacteria present in the vagina or anus, move up to the urethra and bladder, and in some cases even kidneys.

Causes

A woman may become more susceptible to this infection if she faces a problem with her pelvic nerves or muscles if she has narrowed urinary tract or there is some blockage in the urethra, bladder or kidneys.

Symptoms

If you suffer from UTI, you may experience a burning sensation while urinating, cloudy urine, strong odour or blood tinge in the urine. If the infection affects the kidneys, you may experience fever, chills, backache, vomiting or nausea.

Treatment

You will be prescribed antibiotics medication. The dosage and duration may depend on the severity of the infection.

4. Dysmenorrhoea or Painful Periods

If a woman experiences pain during her menstrual cycles, it is called dysmenorrhoea or painful periods. This condition is further divided into two categories primary and secondary dysmenorrhoea, where primary dysmenorrhoea is associated with no pelvic diseases but secondary dysmenorrhoea is associated with underlying pelvic disorders.

Causes

The primary dysmenorrhoea is caused due to prostaglandins, natural chemicals in the body. The secondary dysmenorrhoea may occur due to fibroids, endometriosis or adenomyosis.

Symptoms

Women may feel intense abdominal cramping and pain, which may sometimes be felt in the lower back too.

Treatment

The treatment may depend on the type of dysmenorrhoea you have. However, your doctor may prescribe you painkiller medicines to relieve the pain.

5. Fibroids

Fibroids are muscular tumours that can form inside a woman’s uterus. These tumours are rarely cancerous. They usually vary in location, size and shape.

Causes

There are no obvious reasons that may result in this condition. However, when hormones or genetics play havoc, it may cause fibroids.

Symptoms

You may experience heavy periods, the pressure in lower abdomen, bleeding in between your cycles or pain during sexual intercourse.

Treatment

In most cases, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, the procedure may be determined depending on the severity of the condition and age of the patient.

6. Endometriosis

This condition occurs when the uterine lining, which lines the uterus, grows outside the uterus or on the other parts.

Causes

A woman may experience this problem due to hormonal disturbances, genetic factors, menstrual flow issues or immune system problems.

Symptoms

The symptoms of endometriosis may include painful menstrual cramps, spotting between the menstrual cycle or digestive troubles.

Treatment

Painkiller medicines, hormonal therapies or surgery can be recommended depending on how severe the condition is.

7. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

This problem occurs in the upper genital tract organs of a woman’s body that include fallopian tubes, uterus, pelvic peritoneum and other surrounding structures.

Causes

This may occur in women, who have multiple sexual partners, history of pelvic inflammatory or women who are IUCD users.

Symptoms

Women with PID may experience lower abdominal pain, pain during sexual intercourse, abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, fever or lethargy.

Treatment

This condition can be managed with a course of antibiotic medicines.

8. Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is an STD or sexually transmitted disease that is characterised by sores and blisters.

Causes

This viral infection can be caught by vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected person.

Symptoms

Women who develop herpes may experience flu-like symptoms that include fever, chills, fatigue, muscle pain and nausea. Sores or blisters may appear on or around the genital organs.

Treatment

Oral medication helps in curing the sores and blisters and may prevent them from spreading.

9. Dyspareunia or Painful Sexual Intercourse

This condition may affect women due to structural issues in the body or may occur because of psychological reasons.

Causes

The causes of this condition may include vaginitis, narrow vagina, PID, vulval infection or thick hymen.

Symptoms

The symptoms may include pain during penetration, thrusting, pain that may remain for a couple of hours after sexual intercourse.

Treatment

Sexual education can be imparted to both the partners. However, mostly treatment may depend on the cause of the pain.

10. Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are very common and may affect women of any age group. There are sacs or pouches filled with liquid present in the ovaries.

Causes

Ovarian cysts may result from severe pelvic infections, endometriosis or hormonal issues.

Symptoms

Bloating, swelling or pain can be experienced in the abdominal region. However, nausea and vomiting may occur too.

Treatment

There are varied options available from oral medication to surgery. Depending on the size and type of the cyst, treatment may be suggested.

Why Should We Go for Gynaecological Screening Regularly?

Every woman should pay a regular visit to her gynaecologists because of some of the following reasons:

• For general gynaecological health
• For pelvic exam
• To get assistance for any changes in your menstrual cycle
• For birth control
• For any urinary related issues
• For breast examination

A regular visit to your gynaecologists will help in ensuring better reproductive health. Also, make sure you adopt a healthy lifestyle by consuming a healthy diet, drinking ample amounts of water, exercising regularly and even by practising safe sex.

Also Read:

Consult Your Gynaecologist If You Face These Issues
What Does Your Menstrual Cycle Tell About Fertility
How Does Woman Age Affects Her Fertility