Common Gynaecological Problems and Treatments

Almost every woman suffers from a gynaecological condition at some point or the other. These issues are usually mild and easily treatable, but some health concerns can have serious implications and even affect fertility. Understanding how to manage symptoms of gynaecological problems and seek effective treatment is crucial in such situations. 

Here are five of the most common health issues and treatments that can help women live healthy lives, provided they receive the proper medical guidance.

1. Irregular periods

Periods that arrive before 21 days or later than 35 days are described as 'irregular' and many women complain of irregular periods. Some of the most common causes of irregular periods are hormonal imbalances such as thyroid disorders, polycystic ovaries, or hyperprolactinemia. These disorders are lifestyle disorders due to unhealthy eating and drinking habits, physical inactivity, smoking, and stress. 

The most effective way to treat such issues is to modify your lifestyle. Here are a few tips:

• Eat healthy food rich in proteins but low in trans fats and sugars.
• Exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes at least 5 times a week.
• Manage stress with activities such as meditation and yoga.
• Follow the sunrise and sunset routine, consuming your first meal after sunrise and the last before sunset.
• Sleep for at least 8 hours. 
• Make sure you're asleep no later than 11 pm and get up no later than 8 am.
• Avoid cigarettes and alcohol.

If the issue persists, it’s recommended to visit an experienced gynaecologist for effective irregular menstruation treatment. 

2. Urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence is involuntary, spontaneous urine loss that occurs either with strenuous physical activity (stress incontinence) or is associated with an uncontrollable sense of urgency (urgency incontinence) or both (mixed incontinence). 

Urinary incontinence is common, especially in women. It can occur at any age but is more likely to develop as people age. Due to embarrassment, many people do not tell their doctor about their incontinence. Some wrongly think incontinence is a normal part of ageing or cannot be treated. This is unfortunate, as many cases can be successfully treated or significantly improved.

The choice of urinary incontinence treatment depends on the type of incontinence but can include neuromodulation, biofeedback, pharmacotherapy, or surgery.

3. Urinary Tract Infection

 A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system — your kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, including the bladder and the urethra. 

Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The most common types of urinary tract infections involve the bladder and urethra.  

 Practising the following methods can reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections:

• Drinking plenty of fluids can be helpful. Around 3 to 4 litres of liquids is a good benchmark.
• Wear cotton underwear.
• Avoid intimate hygiene products.
• Make it a point to urinate after having intercourse.
• Clean your vagina from front to back and never from back to front.
• Avoid contact with the seat in public toilets. 

Patients suffering from UTI can receive medical help through effective urinary tract infection treatment from an experienced gynaecologist. 

4. Minimally invasive surgery

 One of the most isolating and overwhelming problems a woman can face in her life is having a gynaecological condition which may require surgery. Today the focus is gradually shifting away from traditional open surgery to more effective treatment options like minimally invasive surgery for delicate gynaecological procedures. Minimally invasive surgery eliminates large abdominal incisions during specialised procedures such as laparoscopy, robotic-assisted surgery, and hysteroscopy. This ensures a less painful operation and a faster recovery.

 A variety of non-cancerous (benign) gynaecological conditions can be treated with minimally invasive procedures. Standard procedures that a minimally invasive gynecology surgeon can help with include:

• Abnormal uterine bleeding (including heavy periods)
• Adenomyosis
• Pelvic pain 
• Endometriosis
• Fibroids  
• Hysterectomy

 Unlike traditional open surgery, patients who opt for minimally invasive surgeries frequently experience decreased post-surgery pain, lower risk of infection or clotting, shorter hospital stays, faster return to normal activities, and less scarring due to smaller incisions.         

 5. VBAC

If a woman has had a caesarean delivery (also called a C-section) before, she may be able to deliver her next baby vaginally. This is called vaginal birth after caesarean, or VBAC.

 VBAC can be a safe choice for most women. Whether it is suitable for a particular case depends on several things, including the reason for the earlier C-section and the total number of C-sections. 

 A woman who chooses VBAC is closely monitored. As with any labour, an emergency caesarean section is done if the mother or baby shows signs of distress.

The benefits of a VBAC compared to a C-section include:

• Avoiding another scar on the uterus. This is important for future pregnancies. The more scars on the uterus, the greater the chance of problems with a later pregnancy.
• Less pain after delivery.
• Fewer days in the hospital and a shorter recovery at home.
• Lower risk of infection.

Pay careful attention to the signs

The most important thing is to learn about your body and understand what is expected and abnormal. Don't ignore any new changes you notice. You can prevent various medical conditions from developing by catching certain diseases in the early stages. Follow a healthy lifestyle, and don't shy away from visiting your gynaecologist. Even when everything is normal, seeing your doctor for annual checkups is recommended.

 Visit PRIME Health to benefit from one of the best gynaecologists in Dubai. Our Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology uses the latest equipment and treatments to provide each patient with world-class care.