During your reproductive years, your body undergoes various changes. As a result, you are highly likely to deal with gynecological health problems and conditions at one point or another. Gynecological health issues affect your reproductive system, which consists of organs such as ovaries, breasts, womb, and fallopian tubes. You should seek specialist Fair Oaks gynecological care because problems and conditions that affect your reproductive system can threaten your life and reduce your ability to produce children.
Subsequently, below are some leading gynecological disorders you may encounter during your reproductive years.
1. Vaginal yeast infections
Also referred to as candidal vulvovaginitis, vaginal yeast infections are fungal infections that cause irritation and itchiness of your vagina and vulva and release of a discharge. Research estimates that three out of four women are at risk of vaginal yeast infections.
Naturally, a healthy vagina has bacteria and yeast cells. Bacteria help keep yeast and other potentially harmful organisms under control. However, a change in the balance of yeast and bacteria can occur and thus lead to vaginal yeast infection.
Pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, a weakened immune system, antibiotics, stress, hormone therapy, and oral contraceptives may trigger excess yeast production in your vagina.
Often, you can treat your vaginal yeast infections using prescription or over-the-counter medications.
2. Irregular and painful menstruation
If your periods are painful, heavy, or irregular, immediately consult your health provider. That is because there is a high chance you have an underlying condition like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or polycystic ovary syndrome. For instance, polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder associated with enlarged ovaries having fluid-filled sacs (follicles) surrounding the eggs.
Conditions that cause the skipping and stopping of menstrual cycles or heavy, painful menstruations can reduce your quality of life and make it difficult to conceive.
Your doctor may treat your irregular and painful menstruations through pain control and hormonal therapy. If you have endometriosis or uterine fibroids, your doctor may rely on numerous advanced treatment solutions like uterine fibroid embolization, ablation, and a hysterectomy.
For example, a hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that your doctor may perform to remove your uterus (womb) and maybe your fallopian tubes and ovaries. Thus, you will no longer have periods or get pregnant.
3. Endometriosis
The lining of the womb, also called endometriosis, is vital for providing the optimal environment for the implantation of an embryo.
The womb’s lining can appear in organs adjacent to your uterus, including the bladder, bowel, fallopian tubes, ovaries, intestines, and perineum. Occasionally, endometriosis may also affect other locations of your body beyond the pelvic region.
Treatment of endometriosis can happen through pain medications or hormone therapy. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend surgical removal of the endometriosis tissue.
4. Uterine fibroids
Also known as myomas, uterine fibroids are benign tumors or nodules made up of tissues and smooth muscles that occur within the walls of your uterus.
If you have problematic uterine fibroids, you may experience heavy bleeding, painful sex, infertility, urinary issues, and abdominal bulging.
Birth control pills, medications, or surgery are potential treatments for uterine fibroids.
Contact Capital Women’s Care today to schedule an appointment for specialist gynecological care.