Reproductive health encompasses everything related to the reproductive system – safer sex practices, contraception options and conditions affecting the reproductive organs.
Reproductive health conditions can affect the vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries. These conditions can affect a patient’s menstruation, sexual function and fertility. This blog covers common female reproductive health concerns, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Learn about the symptoms, treatment and management options for these conditions.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This causes tissue buildup and scarring, which can cause symptoms like pain and infertility.
Symptoms
- Pelvic pain
- Heavy bleeding or pain during menstrual cycles
- Painful sex
- GI issues like diarrhea and bloating
Treatments
Treatment options will depend on whether you plan to get pregnant, but may include:
- Birth control pills to stop ovulation
- Surgical removal of abnormal tissue
- Hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus)
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are small, dense balls of tissue (tumors) that develop in the uterus. They are very common and usually noncancerous, affecting about 1 in 5 women of reproductive age. Their exact cause isn’t known, but the risk of developing fibroids may increase around menopause.
Symptoms range from mild to severe. Not all people with uterine fibroids will need treatment.
Symptoms
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- Lower back pain
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Spotting between periods
Treatments
- Hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus)
- Uterine fibroid embolization
- Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids while leaving uterus intact)
- Anti-hormonal medication
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition in which ovulation doesn’t happen normally. This causes cysts to develop in the ovaries. These cysts make hormones called androgens. If this hormone builds up in the ovaries, they can cause further problems with other hormones, interrupt the menstrual cycle, and result in PCOS symptoms.
While there are no surefire treatments for PCOS, it can be managed. Your provider will recommend a treatment tailored to your pregnancy plans.
Symptoms
- Irregular, missed, heavy or light periods
- Male pattern body hair on the face, chest, back or abdomen
- Weight gain
- Infertility
- Male pattern baldness, thinning hair
- Infertility
Treatments
- Birth control pills
- Lifestyle changes to promote weight loss
- Diabetes medicine
Gynecologic Cancers
Gynecologic cancers may include cancer of the:
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S.
Symptoms and treatment options may vary depending on where the cancer started and how far it has spread. Being aware of changes or abnormalities in your body can help you spot signs of gynecologic cancer early.
Symptoms
- Unusual bleeding
- Bloating or feeling full too quickly after eating
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back pain
- Constipation or frequent urination
- Itching, burning, tenderness, sores on the vulva
Treatments
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
Prevention
- The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine helps protect against cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Women age 21 and older should get a Pap test every three years to screen for cervical cancer
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases passed from person to person through skin-to-skin contact and transfer of bodily fluids. They are very common but preventable with safer sex practices. About half of all STI cases are in people younger than 25.
Some of the most common STIs are:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Chlamydia
- Genital herpes
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
If left untreated, STIs can result in infertility, some cancers and birth complications. Syphilis can cause premature birth, birth defects and miscarriage.
Symptoms
- Pain during sex
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pelvic pain
- Genital sores or itching
Most STIs are asymptomatic (show no symptoms), so the best thing you can do is get tested through your primary care provider.
Treatments
Bacterial STIs can be treated with antibiotic medications. Viral STIs can be treated but not cured with anti-viral medications. This chart from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outlines the clinical recommendations for treating various STIs.
If you are diagnosed with an STI, do not have sex while you’re completing your treatment regimen. If possible, inform all recent sexual partners of your status so they can get tested, too.
Prevention
- Talk with your sexual partner about STIs and if they have been tested recently
- Use a condom
- Get the HPV vaccine
- Get regular STI checks if you have a new or multiple sexual partners
- Ask your doctor about PrEP or PEP if you believe you’re at risk for HIV exposure
Infertility
Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant (conceive) for one year if less than 35 years old. If older than 35 years old, the time period is reduced to six months of trying to conceive. It’s important to know that infertility is a common condition, with 1 in 5 people between the ages of 15-49 having some sort of infertility related to medical problems with the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries.
For people trying to get pregnant, infertility can be emotionally challenging. Fertility treatments depend on the cause of infertility (ovulation disorders, fallopian tube blockage, uterine conditions, etc.).
Treatments
- Medicine/surgery
- Intrauterine insemination
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
In vitro fertilization may also be an option.
Your Path to Better Reproductive Health
Reproductive health issues can affect anyone. We’re here to help. The OB/GYN providers at University Health can provide guidance and treatment tailored to your unique lifestyle and family planning goals.
Learn more about our women’s health services, and schedule an appointment today.
Additional Resources
For more information about sexual health, infectious diseases, HIV and more, explore our Institute for Public Health website.
