A modern woman wishes to understand her treatment and to be treated with understanding. She requires sufficient knowledge to assist her in making an informed choice whenever there are treatment options. Successful gynaecological treatment relies on a partnership between the patient and her chosen doctor. In writing 'frequently Asked Questions On Women's Health' the author has attempted to explain:-
- most aspects of gynaecology in simple terms.
- essential medical words and expressions.
- the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the female reproductive organs.
- the disorders (pathology) that may occur with the structure or function of the female genital organs.
- the medical and surgical treatment options.
- the potential advantages and disadvantages of each treatment.
It has been estimated that every ten years mankind doubles scientific knowledge. In other words, we accumulate as much new understanding about the universe in ten years as had been learned by all previous generations. There can be little doubt that medicine in general, and obstetrics and gynaecology in particular, have more than kept pace. This would mean that since the author qualified from medical school thirty years ago there would have been an eight-fold increase. It follows that medical knowledge will increase sixteen-fold during the clinical careers of doctors currently qualifying.
Knowledge can be compared to an iceberg. From a distance it appears tiny but as we get closer we see, learn and understand more although we also appreciate how much more is still to be revealed. We must ensure a diligent balance between early utilisation of medical advances and safety. Knowledge, like an iceberg, should be treated with a combination of respect and caution to avoid potential hidden dangers of titanic proportions. Many patients, as well as doctors, are understandably bewildered by this. Examples of these issues are addressed in this book whenever opportunity has arisen.
Case histories, the medical stories, of some of my patients, with their kind consent, have been integrated to illustrate real-life gynaecological problems and how they have been cared for.
It is impossible to include a detailed discussion of all the drugs (medicines) that could be used in gynaecological practice. A brief synopsis of those more frequently used has been included.
