Problems of the Reproductive Systems

Male Reproductive Problems 1. Inguinal Hernia- part of intestine pushes into the abdominal wall near the top of the scrotum.  Lifting heavy objects can cause this to happen. Symptoms include a lump in the groin near the thigh, pain in the groin or partial to complete blockage of the intestine. Surgery is usually necessary to repair the hernia.

2. Sterility - the inability to reproduce.  Can be caused by hormonal imbalance, certain medication, drug use (including anabolic steroids), and damaged sperm.  Males who produce less that 20 million sperm per milliliter of seminal fluid or sperm of poor quality.

3. Testicular Cancer :  Occurs between ages 14 – 40 (but can happen at any age.  Males should see a doctor if they notice a painless lump or swelling, pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum.  With early detection, it is treatable through surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.  Certain factors can increase the risk of developing the disease:  Undescended testicle  Abnormal testicular development  Family history of testicular cancer

4. Prostate Problems  Prostate Gland can be enlarged as a result of an infection, tumor, or age related problem.  An enlarged gland presses against the urethra resulting in frequent or difficult urination.  Prostate Cancer is a more serious condition. Regular screenings should be done for older males. Early detection increases chance of survival.

Female Reproductive Problems 1. Vaginitis – most common vaginal infection in women childbearing age. - discharge, odor, pain, itching, or burning

2. Blocked Fallopian tubes – leading cause of infertility. 3. Ovarian Cysts – fluid filled sacs on the ovary. Small noncancerous cysts usually disappear on their own. Larger cysts may require surgery.

4. Cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancer: - Early sexual activity and STD’s such as human papillomavirus (HPV) are related to an increased incidence of cervical cancer.

5. Infertility: Endometriosis – tissue that lines the uterus migrates and grows in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus or lining of pelvic cavity. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) – an infection of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the surrounding areas of the pelvis.

Infertility cont…… Sexual Transmitted Diseases (STD) – most common causes of infertility and other disorders of the reproductive system.