The reproductive system is an important aspect of women’s health, playing a fundamental role in fertility, menstruation, and overall well-being. Caring for women’s reproductive health involves a holistic approach that includes lifestyle modifications, frequent consultation with health care professionals, and proactive strategies.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Deepika Mishra, consultant at Birla Fertility and IVF in Varanasi, revealed, “The common reproductive health problems that women face include menorrhagia (heavy bleeding), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and irregular periods. Religion is included. Additionally, many women suffer from PCOS, a common type of hormonal imbalance that manifests as irregular menstruation, ovarian cysts, and fertility challenges.
She added, “There are also some other issues that affect women’s reproductive health: uterine fibroids, or leiomyoma (a type of non-cancerous growth arising from the muscle layer of the uterus), and endometriosis (a condition in which the tissue resembles the uterus). The lining moves beyond the uterus, causing pelvic discomfort and infertility). Additionally, pregnancy and reproductive problems also significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health.’
Encouraging an integrated method that ensures comprehensive well-being and supports reproductive vitality, Dr. Neha Tripathi, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Indirapuram, Delhi, suggests the following few ways to protect women’s reproductive system –
- Regular Screening/Check-up: Frequent gynecological examinations, such as Pap smears, mammograms, and HPV screening, can help identify abnormalities at an early stage, increasing treatment outcomes.
- healthy lifestyle: A nutritious diet, frequent exercise, and a healthy sleep routine promote general health and reduce reproductive health problems.
- Pain or discomfort management: Consult a health care professional for any discomfort, pain, or unusual discharge.
- Limit smoking and alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can adversely affect reproductive health and increase the risk of cancer.
- Practice safe sex: Practicing safe sex is essential to avoid STD infections and other reproductive problems.
- Stay up to date on vaccinations: Ensuring vaccination against diseases like HPV can prevent reproductive health complications.
- Consider alternative menstrual products: Choosing eco-friendly alternatives like menstrual cups or cloth pads can provide comfort and environmental benefits compared to traditional disposable products.
- Ask for support: Asking for support from friends, family or healthcare providers can help effectively address reproductive health issues or concerns.
Dr. Manju Gupta, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Noida, shared, “Common problems in women’s reproductive health arise from various factors that gynecologists frequently encounter. These issues include hormonal imbalance, infection, structural abnormalities, lifestyle factors and genetic predisposition. He explained in detail-
- hormonal imbalance: Hormonal disruption can lead to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which includes irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and hormonal disturbances that affect fertility. Additionally, irregular menstrual cycles and abnormal hormone levels may indicate other underlying issues.
- Infection: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in chronic pelvic pain, scarring, and infertility if left untreated. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also impact reproductive health.
- Structural Abnormalities: Conditions such as endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, and uterine fibroids, benign growths in the uterus, can cause pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and fertility problems.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, stress and exposure to environmental toxins can affect reproductive health. These factors can disrupt menstrual cycles, hormone levels, and overall fertility.
- Genetic predispositions: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to reproductive health problems, such as a family history of conditions like endometriosis or PCOS. Genetic factors may influence susceptibility to certain reproductive disorders.
Dr. Manju Gupta highlights, “Addressing these common issues in women’s reproductive health requires a thorough understanding of each patient’s medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Gynecologists use a variety of diagnostic tests, including pelvic examination, ultrasound imaging, hormone level assessments, and laboratory tests, to accurately diagnose and treat these conditions.
They concluded, “Treatment strategies often include a combination of medication, lifestyle modifications, surgical intervention, and fertility treatments tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals. Regular gynecological checkups and preventive care play an important role in maintaining women’s reproductive health and overall well-being.
