Disorders of The Female Genital System
Difficulties with menstrual periods, such as pain, irregularity and heavy bleeding are very common disorders of the female genital system. The normal pattern of menstruation varies greatly; some women have brief, light periods at short intervals; other women have longer, heavier periods. The doctor should be consulted if the normal pattern changes.

The vagina is a common site of infection. Many infections clear up spontaneously without the need to consult the doctor, but 2.5% of consultations in general practice are due to vaginal infection.

After the menopause the vaginal walls and vulva shrink and become dry. This can cause soreness and sometimes even infection. In the vulva there may be abnormal skin changes.

The Fallopian tubes are also a site of infection, usually spread from the uterus or vagina. Infection of the pelvic area is sometimes known as pelvic inflammatory disease or salpingitis.

TThe egg-producing follicles in the ovary can become cysts — swellings filled with fluid. These swellings may remain unnoticed unless an opeartion is carried out for something else, occasionally they grow very large. They may cause pain. Very rarely the cysts are cancerous.

Many women experience tenderness and lumpiness of the breast before a period. Sometimes there is an isolated lump which is soft and tender.

Unfortunately, cancer of the breast starts as a small lump in the breast and so all lumps should be reported to the doctor as soon as they are discovered.

High-Risk Groups
1. Women over 40 are more likely to develop breast cancer
2. Women over 50 are more likely to develp cancer of the body of the uterus.
3. Women who are sexually active are more likely to develp cervical cancer
4. Women who are overweight are more likely to develop prolapse

Main Symptoms of Female Genital Disorder
1. Abdominal Pain
2. Problems of the vagina and vulva
3. Period problems

Emergencies
1. Severe, lower abdominal pain and collapse in early pregnancy
2. Bleeding in the second half of pregnancy
3. Severe bleeding after childbirth

Prevention of Female Genital Problems

• Examine your breasts every month. Report any changes in appearance or lumps
• Have regular cevical smear tests, at least one every three years
• Do not wear tight panty girdles, tight jeans, nylon tights or use vaginal deodorants if you are prone to thrush. The Pill may also increase the likelihood of your getting thrush
• Wipe from front to back after a bowel motion
• Do not forget to remove your last tampon at the end of your period
• If you are breast-feeding, keep your nipples soft and supple by regular use of a lubricant such as olive oil
• Do not let the baby suck on the end of the nipple, make sure he is properly fixed to the areola

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