A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Women’s Reproductive System Diseases
How do you prevent disease if you do not know what’s causing it?
Nature thrives on balance, and so does our body. Any imbalance caused by an external stimulus can manifest a state of dis-ease in the body. Especially the female reproductive system.
The female reproductive system is elaborate, this makes it prone to dysregulation or dysfunction. The effects of these complications can be seen not only in their health and well-being but also in the process of procreation.
This makes it rather important for us to spark a discussion and learn to be equipped with ways to protect ourselves against such diseases.
This comprehensive guide to understanding women’s reproductive health covers everything you need to know and more about the organ that gives birth to life.
Before we get into the depths of these troublesome diseases, let’s educate ourselves about the different parts of the female reproductive system.
PS- If you were a science geek at school, you can skip the next section to explore different types of reproductive diseases!
The Intricacies of Womanhood: An Overview of the Female Reproductive System
This complex-looking system is carefully designed by piecing several key structures together. It is indeed an architectural marvel! These key structures include the ovaries, uterus, vagina, cervix, fallopian tubes, and vulva.
Together they work like a symphony to enable conception, childbearing, and delivery of an infant.
To be able to differentiate between the normal and abnormal functioning of all these organs, we must first understand the routine roles they play every day.
Ovaries:
Ovaries are small, almond-shaped organ that sits on either side of a uterus. The prime function of these is just like that of seed pods.
Like how seed pods contain and nurture seeds, the ovaries also store and nourish immature eggs called ova. At birth, both ovaries combinedly reserve approximately 700,00 oocytes, also known as immature eggs.
Upon puberty, these eggs transform to maturity and are released each month. This process is termed ovulation. If this egg is not fertilized, it leaves the body along with blood and debris because of menstruation.
Another core function of the ovaries is to produce hormones. Hormones secreted by the ovaries are multi-functional. They facilitate the menstrual cycle, and ovulation cycle, in addition to helping with pregnancy, childbirth and breastmilk production.
They also potentiate secondary effects by influencing libido, mood, and sleep and contributing towards physical and mental health.
Constantly being under the effect of hormonal changes causes mood swings and varied energy levels in women. This is why they experience a wide range of emotions throughout the month.
So next time instead of saying, “Oh, she’s on her period,” try buying her a tub of ice cream for continually enduring changes.
Fallopian tubes:
The f-tubes are the highway that connects the uterus to the ovaries. Upon ovulation, the ovary releases an egg along with some fluid that is pushed forward in the fallopian opening.
Once inside, the fine hair-like structures move the egg towards the uterus where it can be fertilized.
Uterus:
The uterus or the womb is a pear-shaped muscular organ with a lining of nutrient-rich tissue. This lining grows every month to nurture the baby if conceived. In cases where fertilization doesn’t take place, this lining along with the egg is shed in the form of menstrual fluid.
As for muscular strength, it is needed to produce contractions and dilate the cervix to push out the foetus.
Cervix and Vagina:
The uterus opens into a cervix followed by the vagina.
The cervix is a narrow structure whose prime task is to protect the uterus from bacterial invasion. To do this, it secrets mucus. The mucus is also useful in keeping the vagina healthy.
Furthermore, this mucus is also useful in stopping sperm from entering the uterus when pregnant.
As for the vagina, it is a flexible tube-shaped structure that acts as a connector between the internal and external reproductive organs.
It also serves as a gateway for the entry or exit of fluids to or from the body.
Clitoris:
Located above the vaginal opening, the clitoris is known as the female erogenous organ whose sole function is to allow you to experience sexual pleasure.
Vulva:
Vulva is the external part of the female reproductive system. It’s the global term constituting all structures that make up the female genitalia.
It has two prime functions to perform. First, protect the internal reproductive organs, and second, facilitate sex via arousal and lubrication.
Together, they account for the female reproductive system! 1
But remember the question we had begun with, “How do you prevent a disease if you do not know what’s causing it?”
To understand what causes them, let us start by mapping out different types of female reproductive diseases.
Navigating the Spectrum: Different Types of Female Reproductive Diseases
The spectrum of female reproductive diseases encompasses a wide range of conditions, from infections and structural abnormalities to hormonal disorders and cancers.
By shedding light on these diseases, we aim to empower women to navigate their reproductive health with confidence and understanding.
All the reproductive health diseases can be classified into one of the below stated classes. Let’s start viewing them one by one under a magnified lens!
Reproductive System Infections
Reproductive system infections can be a manifestation of an imbalanced vaginal microbiome or from external pathogens (disease-causing agents). Disruptions in the delicate balance of this microbiome can result in an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that results in infections.
These harmful bacteria can either be sexually transmitted or via the instrumentation of the reproductive system.
Medical procedures like the insertion of Intrauterine devices may introduce bacteria thereby increasing the risks of infections. These infections can be bacterial, or viral, or parasitical.
Some of the common reproductive system infections have been discussed below.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease:
Pelvic inflammatory disease, commonly referred to as PID is an infection that affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the womb.
Many instances of PID are caused by bacterial infections that originate from the cervix or the vagina. These bacteria can either be acquired via STIs or be the ones already present in the vaginal microbiome.
Some of the common experienced symptoms include:
- Pain in the lower abdomen area
- Heavy periods
- Pain while urinating
- Unusual vaginal discharge that is yellow, green, or smelly
There’s no definitive test to diagnose PID. The diagnosis is carried out based on symptoms experienced.
The treatment regimen includes a 14-day antibiotic course if diagnosed promptly. 3
Bacterial Vaginosis:
Bacterial Vaginosis or BV is the culprit that causes unusual vaginal discharge. Although BV in itself is not an STI, it does have the potential to make you susceptible to getting one.
Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis include:
- An unusual fishy smelled discharge after sex
- Change in colour and consistency of the discharge i.e., from grey white to thin and watery fluid.
BV is diagnosed by wiping a cotton bud over the discharge in your vagina and testing it for infections.
The treatment regimen is a blend of oral and topical medications. 4
Sexually Transmitted Infections:
It is time to visit the clinic if you or your partner are experiencing the symptoms of STI.
These symptoms are:
- A burning sensation while urinating
- Lumps around the genitals
- Unusual discharge from genitalia
- Warts
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
Once diagnosed with the type of STI, the appropriate treatment regimen is initiated.
Some common types of STI are chlamydia, syphilis, pubic lice, or gonorrhoea.
Menstrual Disorders
Menstrual disorders are characterised as disruptive symptoms that irregulate a woman’s normal menstrual cycle.
There are many different forms in which they present themselves. It can include heavy bleeding accompanied by painful cramps (Dysmenorrhoea) or no bleeding at all (Amenorrhoea).
You might have a lot of questions about each one of them, so let’s have a closer look to understand them better.6
Dysmenorrhoea (Painful Periods):
Dysmenorrhoea can be characterized as recurrent cramping and pain during the menstrual cycle. This can either be primary (abnormal contractions) or secondary (caused by another medical condition) in nature.
Secondary Dysmenorrhoea is oftentimes an effect of endometriosis. Some other conditions which may trigger this are uterine fibroids, PID or abnormal pregnancy.
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhoea include:
- Cramping in the lower abdomen
- Pain that travels down the legs
- Weakness, fatigue, and headache
Dysmenorrhoea can be diagnosed via ultrasound, MRI, or laparoscopy (discussed in further sections).
Depending on age, health, and medical history a treatment comprising painkillers, oral contraceptives and hormone therapy is designed.
In addition to that, regular exercise, vitamin supplementation and heat pads across the abdomen are advised.
Amenorrhoea (Absence of Menstruation):
Missing a period for more than 3 cycles is termed Amenorrhoea, meaning the absence of menstruation. This may be caused due to two reasons.
Either menstruation never began (primary) or is affected due to some other physical cause (secondary).
There are several possible causes for this, ranging from pregnancy, ovulation abnormality, and strenuous physical activity to eating disorders.
Its diagnosis includes a complete physical and medical history examination.
As per need, a crafted treatment is administered which includes hormone therapy, oral birth control pills, dietary changes, and calcium supplementation.8
Benign Tumours and Growths
Unlike cancerous tumours, benign tumours are non-cancerous growths that do not spread to other parts of the body.
But what was it that lead to its growth in the first place?
Well, the causative list is long. The culprits could be environmental toxins (radiation), stress, local trauma, inflammation, infection, or your genes.
If they do not spread to other parts of the body, why do they need to be treated?
That’s because these tumours ultimately end up exerting pressure on vital structures. If not treated, they may lead to secondary complications.
Here is a brief overview of some concerning tumours and growths of the female reproductive system.
Ovarian Cysts:
Ovarian cysts are a reproductive disorder where sacs filled with fluid that develop on an ovary. They’re commonly found and therefore do not exert any symptoms. Symptoms can be seen only when the cyst has ruptured or is blocking the blood supply to the ovaries due to its size.
In that case, one may experience:
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent urination
- Pain during sex
- Difficulty defecating
Ovarian cysts are diagnosed using ultrasound scans or blood tests.
Determination of whether a cyst needs to be treated or not depends on variables like its size, intactness, and whether the patient is in the menopausal stage.
Cysts are surgically removed if they are large with the potential to cause cancer.
Uterine Fibroids:
Uterine fibroids are characterized as non-cancerous growths that develop around the uterus or within it. These are made of fibrous and muscle tissue and differ in size.
Many women with uterine fibroids are unaware of it because they do not have any symptoms. However, 1 in 3 women may experience the following symptoms:
- Heavy periods
- Lower back pain and abdominal pain
- Pain or discomfort during sex
Ultrasound scans are used to diagnose Uterine Fibroids.
As for the treatment, they need not be treated if they are not causing symptoms. But if you do have pain, medications are prescribed to relieve it. Additionally, medications to shrink fibroids are also available as a first line treatment.
However, if they fail, surgery or other minimally invasive procedures may be advised.10
Reproductive System Cancers
Cancer can be described simply as a condition where cells in the body grow uncontrollably. This can occur in any part of the body, including the organs of the female reproductive system.
There are five main types of gynaecological cancers, namely: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar.
When the cells of these organs start multiplying rapidly, gynaecological cancers can develop, posing a significant threat to women’s health.
It’s important to note that some gynaecological cancers and cancer treatments can impact fertility, making early detection and treatment vital.
Out of all these cancers, only cervical cancer can be detected early on, when treatment can prove to be the most effective. For other cancers, we must look out for warning signs. Some of these are:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pelvic pain or pressure in ovarian and uterine cancers
- Frequent urge to urinate.
- Itching, burning, pain or tenderness.
Treatment of gynaecological cancers is done using multiple interventions like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Choosing the right treatment depends upon the stage of cancer and how far it has metastasized.
Equipped with this knowledge, we can become proactive in recognizing warning signs, seeking timely treatment, and navigating the journey towards improved well-being.12
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones are chemical messengers that bring about physiological changes in the body. A little too much or too little of this can alter the functions of the body.
But how can we say that the levels have gone awry? It’s not that we constantly monitor their production and consumption, do we?
Well, our body has its ways of signalling us. Mood swings, digestive issues, disrupted sleep patterns, irregular menstrual cycles, acne breakouts, or energy dips can all be clues. These are the body’s way of telling us that something is just not right.
Even though it’s normal for these to change through different times in life, medications and health issues can also contribute to these rises and falls.13
Now, let’s shift our focus to Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). A common problem faced by a lot of women.14
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):
PMS is the broad term that encompasses symptoms women feel in the week before their period.
Some common symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in appetite and sex drive
Even though it’s not fully understood as to what causes PMS, they may be a manifestation of hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle.
To treat these symptoms, we can bring about lifestyle changes, consume dietary supplements and even receive hormonal therapy.
Infertility and Reproductive Disorders
An increasing number of studies are uncovering the negative impacts of infertility and reproductive disorders on pregnancy, from implantation to term.
In addition to that, patients suffering from reproductive system diseases or infertility require ART’s to conceive, which is, the use of assisted reproductive technologies.
Using these fertility-related treatments in which the eggs or the embryo are manipulated may affect the pregnancy outcomes.
Therefore, it’s essential to treat such disorders to promote conception. With this aim, let’s try to understand some common disorders of this category and gain a comprehensive understanding of their management and treatment options.16
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
In easy terms, PCOS is a common condition which affects the functioning of ovaries.
PCOS has 3 main features, these are irregular periods, high levels of male hormones (characterized by excess facial and body hair), and polycystic ovaries.
Symptoms of PCOS are:
- Irregular periods
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
- Excessive hair growth
- Weight gain
- Oily skin
There’s no treatment that can cure PCOS, but the symptoms can be managed. Medications for excessive hair growth, irregular periods and fertility problems are available.17
Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a condition in which the endometrium lining or the tissue similar to what lines the womb grows in other parts of the reproductive system like ovaries and fallopian tubes.
This condition can affect women at any particular age.
Some symptoms of this are:
- Feeling sick, constipation or diarrhoea
- Blood in urine or stools
- Period pain
- Pelvic pain
- Pain during or after sex
A GP may carry out the diagnosis by examining the abdomen and the vagina. they might get you started on a treatment regimen if they think you’re suffering from endometriosis.
If further confirmation is needed, the gynaecologist may run some tests, ultrasound scans, MRI scans or laparoscopy to give a confirmed diagnosis.
Treatment options for this include painkillers, hormone therapy, contraceptives, or surgery.18
Surgical Interventions for Female Reproductive System Diseases
Oftentimes, there are instances when pharmacological therapies or non-invasive treatment regimens fail to rectify female reproductive diseases. That’s when resorting to surgical interventions becomes the only viable way to achieve the best possible outcomes.
The goal while opting for the surgical alternative is to help alleviate symptoms, restore fertility, and improve the quality of life of the patient.
This is usually done for treating reproductive cancers or to correct uterine abnormalities. 19
In the following section, we will discuss the three most commonly performed types of reproductive surgeries that have proved beneficial in tackling reproductive diseases.
Laparoscopy:
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure. It is also used to eliminate lesions and scar tissues, take out fibroids, or repair damaged f-tubes.
The surgery involves using a small camera that is inserted through the belly button after giving general anaesthesia. Via a small cut, a tube is inserted, and carbon dioxide is pumped to inflate your abdomen.
This allows the doctor to have a better look at the organs within. Along with the laparoscope, surgical instruments can also be inserted through the incisions. Once in place, they can together carry out the required treatments effectively.
On average this procedure takes 30-60 minutes. However, the time required may stretch over the clock if a surgical intervention is involved.20
Hysterectomy:
Hysterectomy is an invasive surgical procedure that is executed to remove the uterus (womb). The reasons for this could be the cancer of reproductive organs, heavy menstrual bleeding, or fibroids.
This surgery is usually recommended when no other first-line therapy regimen is working. However, it’s important to note that hysterectomy is a one-way door. Once operated upon, the patient will no longer be able to conceive.
Depending upon the extent of organ removal, hysterectomy has been subdivided into 3 types:
- A full hysterectomy includes surgical removal of both the uterus and the cervix. This is the most common type of hysterectomy surgery performed for reproductive diseases.
- A partial or subtotal hysterectomy where only the uterus is taken out leaving the cervix (neck of the womb) intact.
- A radial hysterectomy includes the removal of the womb and the surrounding tissues. These tissues include the fallopian tubes, ovaries, lymph nodes and a part of the vagina.
The procedure may usually last from one to three hours depending on the cervical dimensions and the type of hysterectomy being performed.
Hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure that requires an elaborate discussion with the healthcare provider.
Some of the complications of this procedure include heavy bleeding, infection, damage to surrounding organs like the bladder or the body’s reaction to the anaesthesia given.
As for the recovery, you may take approximately 6-8 weeks to recover fully. It is important to not exert the abdominal muscles too much and allow them time to heal.21
Laparotomy:
Laparotomy or open laparotomy is a surgical procedure that allows the surgeon to have a closer look at the abdominal cavity to diagnose or treat reproductive diseases. They achieve this by making one long incision on the abdominal wall that is similar to a c-section.
Because laparotomy is an invasive procedure, it is usually reserved for demanding situations such as the removal of multiple uterine fibroids.
While laparotomy is an effective surgical approach, it is considered more invasive compared to laparoscopic procedures. It may require a longer recovery period and can carry a higher risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, or hernias at the incision site.
However, it remains a valuable tool in the hands of skilled surgeons when less invasive options are not feasible or appropriate.22
Lifestyle Modifications for Preventing and Managing Female Reproductive System Diseases
A few tweaks here and there in our habits can bring about transformative changes in overall well-being. These routine changes do not have to be elaborate. They only need to be mindful.
In fact, I’d like to share some valuable tips gleaned from a scientific paper titled “Lifestyle Factors and Reproductive Health: Taking Control of Your Fertility.” These suggestions can help you take control of your fertility and enhance your reproductive health.
Balanced Diet and Nutrition: Nourishing Your Reproductive Health
A woman’s diet may ultimately affect her reproductive health. While it’s important to have a nutrition-rich diet, positive health effects were seen when carbohydrates were replaced with vegetable proteins.
Additionally, ensuring that the diet is filled with essential micronutrients (Vitamins and Minerals) is vital. As studies suggest that women who consume adequate levels of these vitamins may be less likely to experience ovulatory infertility.
Regular Physical Activity: Exercise for a Healthy Reproductive System
Physical activity has demonstrated protective effects on fertility. Especially when coupled with the weight loss program for obese women. But as described earlier, nature thrives on balance.
An increase in intensity, frequency, and duration of exercise in women was significantly correlated with decreased fertility.
Physical activity is now being synced with the menstrual cycle to go with the flow. This helps us be mindful and not over-exert ourselves.
Stress Management: Prioritizing Mental Well-being
The equation is simple, decreased stress translates to increased fertility. This makes emotional regulation an important part of overall well-being.
Some ways to do this are to avoid stressors and take time off periodically to help your mind and body reset.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Finding Your Body’s Balance
An individual’s body weight is often a reflection of his/her eating habits. Therefore, it’s important to maintain an ideal Body Mass Index (BMI) ranging from 18.5 and 24.9 to avoid the detrimental effects of weight on health. These can be as follows:
Extremely low reserves of body fat are linked with ovarian dysfunction and infertility in underweight women.
Whereas for obese women, differences in the follicular environment were observed. The good news is that the counter-productive effects of obesity on fertility in women may be reversible after all.
All these highlight the importance of maintaining an ideal body weight.
Quitting Smoking: Protecting Your Reproductive Health
30% of women of childbearing age smoke cigarettes. When a study was conducted to gauge the effects of smoking which is equivalent to smoking 4000+ chemicals; it was found that smokers showed decreased fertility, conception, and pregnancy rates as that to non-smokers.
The ovarian reserves were reduced and a decrease in ovarian function was documented. Changes in ovarian, uterine tube, and uterine functioning, as well as disruptions in hormone levels, are likely to contribute to the infertility seen in smokers.
In conclusion, quit smoking.
Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Moderation for Optimal Reproductive Well-being
Consuming alcohol showed effects like an increase in the time of pregnancy and a decrease in the probability of conception. Moreover, they also impact IVF treatment success rates.
While the mechanisms for these are still unknown, it’s only wise to limit alcohol consumption for your health and well-being.
Safe Sexual Practices: Promoting Reproductive Health and Preventing Infections
Even though contraceptives are used for preventing pregnancies, using them can have positive effects on fertility.
This is because they lower the chances of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, thereby reducing infertility.
This reiterates the fact that one must engage in safe sexual practices to protect reproductive health.
Environmental Factors: Minimizing Exposure to Potential Reproductive Hazards
Every day, we encounter countless viruses and bacteria, endure radiations from cellular towers and devices and are exposed to toxins. All these are potential threats to reproductive health.
Even though our bodies are equipped to defend themselves, it’s still advisable to avoid these in the first place as they may have devastating effects on fertility as well.
Regular Check-ups and Screenings: Proactive Care for Early Detection and Prevention
Regular visits to gynaecologists have shown positive effects on the fertility of women. This is because regular pap smear testing and self-reporting of reproductive health status may help in screening for reproductive diseases and gaining better access to therapeutic care. 23
With this, we come to an end.
Throughout this guide, our goal has been to foster awareness, provide valuable insights, and encourage open conversations about women’s reproductive health. Armed with knowledge, individuals can recognize warning signs, make informed decisions, and seek the necessary medical care to address these diseases.
Remember, every woman’s journey is unique, and seeking professional guidance from healthcare providers is essential. By working together, we can strive towards better reproductive health, improved quality of life, and overall well-being.