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Sexual health problems that put young women at high risk
Reproductive health is a crucial aspect of overall health and well-being. Due to its complex and delicate nature, it is important for women to maintain their reproductive health to avoid long term fatal complications. Let’s explore five issues that young women face in regard to reproductive health.
Cervical cancer:
Dr. Teji Dawane, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Whitefield, Bengaluru, says, “This condition involves formation of a malignant tumor in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. A woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer when exposed to the human papillomavirus (HPV) which weakens the body’s immune system. If these cancerous cells are neither destroyed nor removed, it may affect other organs of the body. To counter this condition, it is important for young women to undergo Pap smear tests and vaccinate themselves with the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.”
Polycystic ovary syndrome
It is a condition which occurs due to hormonal imbalance which leads to the development of small sacs in the ovaries forming cysts. These small fluid cysts contain immature eggs called follicles which fail to release eggs regularly. Symptoms may include irregular periods along with excessive hair growth due to high levels of androgen and obesity. This syndrome affects women during their reproductive age and is frequent among young women.
Lupus:
Medically termed as Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own healthy tissues instead of fighting against possible threats such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and toxins which hampers the body. When diagnosed with lupus, the immune system cannot differentiate between unwanted substances, antigens and healthy tissue. Symptoms of Lupus include aches, pain and serious organ damage over time.
Endometriosis:
A condition where tissues which usually lie inside the uterus, specifically the endometrium, grow outside the uterus. Endometriosis in ovaries may form cysts called endometriomas when the tissues are trapped and are unable to exit from the body. This phenomenon causes dysmenorrhea or intense period cramps along with heavy periods and infertility.
Urinary tract infections:
This condition occurs when germs enter the urinary tract and start to multiply leading to complications such as inflammation and pain. Infections in the urinary bladder may spread to the upper part of the urinary tract or the kidneys. Since women have a shorter urethra, urinary tract infection is commonly experienced among women. Symptoms of UTI include frequent urination, blood in the urine along with burning pain while urinating. In conclusion, Dr. Dawane says, “ Young women face several issues related to their reproductive health which puts them at a higher risk. It is important to be informed and remain cautious when it comes to your body. Every minor or major symptom should never be left untreated hence women should be encouraged to go for annual checkups and consult a doctor to ensure all round health development. By addressing these issues, we can ensure that young women have the support they need to maintain their reproductive health and well-being.”