How prevalent are gynaecological problems?

Gynaecological problems are extremely common. The following are just a few of the more frequent gynaecological questions that women often ask themselves and their professional advisors.

Is my body working normally?
When should I seek professional advice?
Will I require tests and if so what will these involve for me?
Do I require treatment?
What will be my treatment options?
How can I tell which will be the best treatment for me?
How will I benefit from a particular treatment?
Could a proposed treatment cause problems (side effects) for me?
Could I change my treatment if I am not happy with it?
What is the best way for me to avoid an unplanned pregnancy?
Will we be able to have children when we wish?
What will happen to me at the menopause?

There are seldom simple answers to these questions. Every woman is an individual, with her own particular set of circumstances. Every clinical problem requires evaluation and the potential benefits and risks of investigations and treatments demand careful explanation and consideration. If you have a recurring pain that does not require even a paracetamol tablet it is unlikely that you would require an operation to determine the cause or remove the source of the pain - the risks of surgery are likely to be greater than the potential benefits.

A woman's body is continually reminding her about her femininity. First there are the changes in body shape during puberty. This is followed by the menarche (first period) and then monthly periods. The majority of women have some symptoms associated with their menstrual cycles such as breast or pelvic discomfort, premenstrual tension or heavy periods. Most women have a little discharge from the vagina. Four out of five women will develop menopausal symptoms. These are all very personal and intimate matters that are rarely discussed with others. Gynaecological problems range in severity from a minor disruption of the menstrual cycle to life threatening malignancy. They may be of a physical origin such as an ovarian cyst leading to abdominal pain or distension. They may arise from hormonal changes leading to menstrual cycle disturbance or psychological (affecting the mind) symptoms such as anxiety, tension or depression. Female contraception, infertility and problems in early pregnancy are within the province of gynaecology. The range of investigations and treatments available to us is increasing rapidly. Frequently the relationship with a partner may be affected sometimes leading to marital disharmony. The media appear to thrive on women's health issues, harping on anxieties, particularly when there is no other newsworthy story.

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This is the personal website of David A Viniker MD FRCOG, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Whipps Cross University Hospital, London - Specialist Interests - Reproductive Medicine including Infertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause and HRT.

I do hope that you find the answers to your women's health questions in the patient information and medical advice provided.