Derriford

There are several health conditions, illnesses and disorders which are specific to women, but it is not only women doctors who participate in these specialist areas. Such areas include:

Infertility

Infertility affects a small percentage of couples and may be caused by a range of different factors. A couple is advised to see a doctor if they have been trying to conceive for more than a year without any success. Both males and females can be infertile and there may be issues which can be easily treated; the most common reason for female infertility is ovulation disorders, while the most common cause of male infertility is problems affecting the production or movement of sperm. In some cases, the cause of infertility remains unknown despite examinations and tests.

There are treatments which can be used to help infertile people to conceive; possible treatments include surgery to correct defects, repair damage or remove obstructions, medication to control or encourage ovulation and therapies, such as IVF and IUI (intrauterine insemination) to help couples conceive artificially.

The Menstrual cycle and the menopause

Many women experience problems or irregularities with their menstrual cycle from time to time and this may be indicative of an underlying health condition or the development of a new infection or illness. Common problems include heavy periods, irregular periods and severe pain during menstruation.

The menopause often causes unpleasant symptoms, which can be difficult for women to cope with (almost half of women find their symptoms difficult to handle); common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, disturbed sleep patterns and urinary tract infections. The menopause usually affects women around the age of 52.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be very challenging and enjoyable at the same time; many women have uncomplicated pregnancies but others suffer with unpleasant symptoms. All pregnant women will come into contact with a range of health professionals both during their pregnancy and after their baby is born; the multi-disciplinary team aims to ensure that both the mother and baby are fit and healthy during the pregnancy and after the birth.

Female cancer

There are forms of cancer which only affect women, including ovarian, cervical and breast cancer (in rare cases men can also develop breast cancer but the disease is 100 times more prevalent in women than men). Women’s cancers have a high media profile and as a result, most people are aware of the symptoms of specific forms of cancer and survival rates are improving as a result of early diagnosis, improved technology and routine screening programmes.

Gynaecological conditions

Gynaecologists deal with the detection, diagnosis and treatment of conditions which affect the female reproductive system and are largely specific to women. Many women experience gynaecological problems may include abnormal uterine bleeding, problems related to the menstrual cycle and pelvic pain.

Women doctors and patients

Some women may prefer to see a woman doctor as they may feel uncomfortable discussing their problems or undergoing a physical examination with a male doctor; this is not a problem but patients are advised to ask for a female doctor in advance to allow arrangements to be made

Tags: female infertility, female surgery, womens health

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