Chapter 16

Disorders of the Female

Reproductive System

Menstrual Cramps Contractions of the uterus Cause: the contractions help expel

the uterine lining When: 1st or 2nd day of menstrual

period Treatment: warm baths, exercise,

over-the-counter medication, prescription drugs

PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)

Bloated feeling, constipation, headaches, fatigue

Emotional signsWhen: 1-3 days before the menstrual period begins

PMS Continued

Cause: unknownTreatment: exercise, restrict salt and sugar intake, relaxation techniques

Toxic Shock Syndrome

Bacterial infectionCause: use of highly absorbent tampons

Tampons should be changed every 4-6 hrs.

Toxic Shock SyndromeContinued

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 - surgerySmall may just disappear

Cancer Pap test: cells from cervix are removed and tested for cancerWomen should be tested yearly

Self breast examination; Figure 16-10Women 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 cyclesHot flashes

Menstruation ceases Egg are no longer released