Gynecology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the treatment of women - specifically, the treatment of diseases and problems of the reproductive organs. A gynecological disorder is a condition which affects the female reproduction organs, namely the breasts and organs in the abdominal and pelvic area including the womb (uterus), ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina and vulva. Virtually every woman will suffer a gynecological condition at some point in her life. For most, it will be minor and easily treatable, but for others their condition may have devasting consequences - impacting their ability to have children and even, with some illnesses, threaten their life.
1. Painful Intercourse
Also called dyspareunia, the causes of painful intercourse vary and range from physical problems to psychological ones. Most women experience symptoms of painful intercourse at some stage of their life. The treatment focuses on curing the underlying cause, to help eliminate the problem.
2. Pelvic Pain
In general pelvic pain signals that there could be a problem with one of the organs located in the area, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus, vagina, rectum or lower intestines. Common causes include ovarian cysts, endometriosis, uterine fibroids.
3. Pelvic Disorders
This refers to any disorder of the pelvic region, including all of those mentioned above. Other common pelvic disorders include:
4. Vaginitis
The most common types of vaginitis are yeast infections, trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis. Vaginitis literally means 'inflammation' and is characterized by burning and itching around the vulva and the presence of a strong smelling discharge. It is usually caused by an infection or poor diet.
The symptoms of a gynecological disorder will vary according to the condition. See our symptom checker: reproductive system disorders. The most common symptoms which indicate a problem are: