Chapter 16 Disorders of the Female Reproductive System

Menstrual Cramps Contractions of the uterus Cause: the contractions help expel the uterine lining When: 1 st or 2 nd day of menstrual period Treatment: warm baths, exercise, over- the-counter medication, prescription drugs

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) Bloated feeling, constipation, headaches, fatigue Emotional signs When: 1-3 days before the menstrual period begins

PMS Continued Cause: unknown Treatment: exercise, restrict salt and sugar intake, relaxation techniques

Toxic Shock Syndrome Bacterial infection Cause: use of highly absorbent tampons Tampons should be changed every 4-6 hrs.

Toxic Shock Syndrome Continued Symptoms: high fever, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, sunburn like rash Treatment: removal of the tampon, seek medical attention Can cause death

Ovarian Cysts Growth on the ovary Symptoms: pain or no pain at all Treatment: Large cysts - surgery Small may just disappear

Cancer Pap test: cells from cervix are removed and tested for cancer Women should be tested yearly Self breast examination; Figure Women should perform this test monthly

Cancer Continued Mammograms for individuals over 35 years of age If breast cancer runs in your family you will have a higher risk of getting breast cancer. Early detection is best!

Infertility The inability to have children Cause: failure to ovulate, scar tissue on the reproductive organs (infection, previous surgery), STD’s Treatment: fertility drugs, fertility treatment, in vitro fertilization

Endometriosis Endometrium grows into fallopian tubes possibly abdomen Treatment: surgery to remove growths and scar tissue Can cause infertility/sterility

Hysterectomy Removal of female sex organs Ovaries Uterus May be partial or complete

Menopause Change later in life Symptoms usually starts around age 50 Irregular cycles Hot flashes Menstruation ceases Egg are no longer released