Common gynecological problems that you don't speak about

The term gynecological problem is used for any medical condition that involves the female reproductive organs such as the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina and so on. The fact that these problems affect intermediate areas of the female body is one of the major reasons why a lot of women don't speak about these openly or refrain from seeking proper medical care. As time passes by, many of these conditions can actually aggravate giving rise to complications that not only impact one's sexual life but also their ability to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy. In this blog, we have elaborated on some of the common gynecological problems and how they can affect you. Continue reading to find out. 

Uterine fibroids 

Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecological problems seen nowadays, affecting almost 20 per cent of the female population above the age of 3 years. In many cases, however, the condition remains undiagnosed or is diagnosed late, primarily owing to the fact that a lot of women having these do not experience any concerning symptoms initially, and even if they too, they simply overlook it. In case the fibroids are symptomatic, they can lead to having menstrual flow, frequent urge to urinate, unexplained back pain and painful intercourse. 

Types of Uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids can be of several different types based on the area from where they originate. Intramural fibroids are the most common and these develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. Submucosal fibroids develop beneath the inner uterine lining and Subserosal fibroids develop beneath the outer lining. Pedunculated fibroids are quite uncommon and have a mushroom-like appearance. 

Are Uterine fibroids normal?

Uterine fibroids are fairly common, affecting 40 to 80 per cent of females. While smaller fibroids are not generally a cause of concern, larger ones can lead to complications like intermittent or heavy bleeding. Some women may experience unbearable pain, constipation and bowel spasms.

What causes Uterine fibroids?

If you are wondering what causes Uterine fibroids, it is important to note that there is no particular cause that can be pinpointed. Experts from the best hospital in India, however, believe that it has something to do with the disruption of the normal levels of hormones estrogen and progesterone. It has been seen that these hormones support the growth of uterine fibroids and when their levels are low the fibroids start to shrink. 

Why is it important to see a doctor for Uterine fibroids?

In cases where the Uterine fibroids are small and asymptomatic, you might not need any treatment at all. However, if these are large, or triggering concerning symptoms, it is advisable to see a doctor. In some cases, lack of proper treatment can lead to infertility or other problems that can affect the course of your pregnancy, such as preterm delivery and placental abruption. 

Dysmenorrhoea

Period cramps are no less than a nightmare for women, especially those who experience these every month. The condition is commonly known as  Dysmenorrhoea and it affects around  16 to 91 per cent of menstruating women. For some women, it is not just the cramps that impact the quality of their life but also the symptoms that are experienced along with it such as nausea, fatigue and upset stomach. Having mild to moderate cramps is still normal, however, if the pain is unbearable you should not keep on ignoring it. Period cramps generally start a day or two before you have your period and can continue up to 3rd or 4th day of the cycle. 

Types of Dysmenorrhoea

Dysmenorrhoea is broadly classified into two types depending on their origin - Primary Dysmenorrhoea and Secondary Dysmenorrhoea. The former is not linked to any underlying medical condition and may be experienced every time you have your periods, the latter, on the other hand, is caused by an underlying medical condition or infection. 

Is Dysmenorrhoea normal?

Although Dysmenorrhoea is very common, it does not mean that it is normal. While the pain is tolerable in some cases, in others it may be so excruciating that it can impact the quality of life and even call for the need for proper medical intervention. 

What causes Dysmenorrhoea?

When you are menstruating, the prostaglandin levels tend to increase which makes your uterus contract more strongly. It is due to these contractions that the inner lining of the uterus comes off and is passed out. It is these contractions, which are responsible for the cramps and the severity depends on how strong they are. 

Dysmenorrhoea can also be the result of an underlying medical condition. Some of the most common of these are:

• Endometriosis
• Adenomyosis
• Fibroids
• Cervical stenosis
• Birth defects and abnormalities

Why is it important to see a doctor for Dysmenorrhoea? 

A lot of women tend to ignore menstrual cramps and seek comfort from home remedies. Although a lot of these can help you manage the pain, they do not address the underlying cause. In many situations, Dysmenorrhoea can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that can only be managed with proper treatment. 

Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is a condition in which a woman, of reproductive age, stops having her periods. Now, you must be thinking that it's because of menopause. Well, Amenorrhea and Menopause are two different things, and while the latter is a natural and normal process, the former is a cause of concern and should not be considered normal at all. 

Types of Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea can be classified into two types depending on the onset - Primary Amenorrhea and Secondary Amenorrhea. If a girl does not start having periods even by the time she reaches 15 years of age, she is said to have the former and if a woman abruptly stops having her periods for 3 consecutive months, she is said to have the latter. 

Is Amenorrhea normal?

Amenorrhea affects around 1 in every 25 women who are not pregnant, have not undergone hysterectomy, are not breastfeeding or have not hit menopause. Despite being so common, the condition is not normal as it is often linked to an underlying medical condition that requires proper treatment. 

What causes Amenorrhea? 

There are several different factors that may be responsible for causing Amenorrhea. If we speak of primary Amenorrhea, it is usually caused by an underlying genetic condition, hormonal problem, delayed puberty or problems related to the development of reproductive organs. Secondary Amenorrhea, on the other hand, can be due to any of the following reasons:

• Having a significantly low BMI
• Losing weight at a rapid rate
• Having eating disorders 
• Neurological problems that impact the production of certain hormones
• Medical conditions like Polycystic ovarian syndrome 
• Thyroid disorders
• Premature ovarian failure 
• Chronic ailments like renal failure

Why is it important to see a doctor for Amenorrhea? 

If you are experiencing the problem it is important to consult a doctor. In many cases the problem may be linked to an underlying condition that can be effectively managed with timely medical intervention, thereby negating the risks of complications later in life. Hence it is advisable to go for proper medical evaluation. 

Vaginitis 

Vaginitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the vagina and is a result of an underlying infection. It is characterized by symptoms like itching, burning and abnormal vaginal discharge. The problem is so common that most women will experience it at least once in their lifetime. It is usually seen in women who are of the reproductive age.

Types of Vaginitis

Vaginitis can be of the following types, depending on what causes it:
Atrophic vaginitis is caused by thinning of the vaginal lining due to a decrease in estrogen levels, around menopause.
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by excessive growth of otherwise naturally found bacteria in and around the vagina
Trichomonas vaginalis or trich, which is caused by a sexually transmitted parasite, which may even impact the urogenital tract.
Candida albicans induced vaginitis, which is a yeast responsible for causing vaginal thrush. 

Is Vaginitis normal?

Vaginitis is common in women of all age groups but it should not be overlooked. It can be effectively managed with proper treatment and care. So, it is advisable to not overlook the symptoms and seek proper consultation. 

What causes Vaginitis?

Vaginitis is caused by an infection caused by bacteria, yeast or fungi. It can also be a result of non-infectious factors, which include:

• Douching
• Using perfumed soaps
• Use of scented detergents
• Using intrauterine devices
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Excessive use of antibiotics
• Pregnancy 
• Diabetes 
• Use of corticosteroid medicines

Why is it important to see a doctor for Vaginitis?

Yes, it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing the symptoms of vaginitis as the underlying cause can be diagnosed and managed only with the help of an expert. 

If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned problems, it is advisable to see a doctor. Not speaking about the problem is not a solution, but seeking proper care might help you find one.