Common reproductive system disorders

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic and often painful condition where tissue resembling the lining of the uterus begins to grow in areas outside the womb, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes.

Although the condition can affect women of any age, it is most commonly seen in those in their 30s and 40s. While there is currently no cure for endometriosis, various treatments can help alleviate the symptoms.

The severity of the condition varies greatly. For some women, endometriosis can significantly affect their quality of life, while others may experience few or no symptoms. Common symptoms include:

Pelvic pain, which may affect the lower abdomen or back,

Pain that interferes with daily activities,

Pain during or after sexual intercourse,

Symptoms during menstruation, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or blood in the urine.

A serious complication of endometriosis is infertility, as it can make it more difficult to conceive. Additionally, the condition can sometimes lead to emotional challenges, such as depression, due to its impact on daily life.

Source: NHS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects ovarian function and hormone regulation in women.

Polycystic Ovaries:
Under normal circumstances, a woman’s ovary releases an egg during ovulation. However, in women with PCOS, the ovaries contain a large number of small, harmless fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that measure up to 8 mm (0.3 inches). These underdeveloped sacs often fail to release an egg, preventing ovulation.

Because many women with PCOS do not experience noticeable symptoms, it’s challenging to determine exactly how many are affected. However, it’s estimated that around 1 in 5 women in the UK have PCOS, with more than half of them being asymptomatic.

PCOS is also linked to an increased risk of long-term health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.

Causes and Risk Factors:
The precise cause of PCOS remains unclear, but genetic factors and hormonal imbalances play a role. Women with PCOS often have elevated insulin levels due to insulin resistance, which in turn stimulates the production of androgens (male hormones like testosterone). These higher androgen levels can result in symptoms such as excessive facial hair or other masculine traits. Obesity or being overweight can further exacerbate insulin production and symptoms.

Source: NHS

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