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
