Caring for the Reproductive System

Female Vulvovaginitis Vulvovaginitis –Inflammation or infection of the vagina –Caused when irritating substances enter the vulva or vagina

Yeast Infections Yeast Infections –Caused by the yeast fungus Candida albicans –Candida is found in every woman, but when too much accumulates it leads to yeast infections –Easily treated with creams and suppositories

Endometriosis Endometriosis –When tissue normally found on the endometrium starts to grow on other parts of pelvic cavity (ie fallopian tubes, ovaries, etc.) –Very painful –Can cause sterility if left untreated

Ovarian cysts Ovarian cysts –Non-cancerous sacs filled with fluid –Can become painful if they grow large enough –Usually go away on their own, but may have to be removed if they become too large

Ovarian Cancer Ovarian Cancer –Causes are unknown –Early symptoms are mild and often missed Cervical cancer Cervical cancer –Women who have intercourse before eighteen are at more risk –Can be detected through a regular Pap test

Breast Cancer Breast Cancer –Most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canadian women –Heredity is a big risk factor –Other possible causes are smoking, diet or a possible virus

Males Hernia Hernia –A bulge in the groin area –A portion of the intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal wall –Requires surgery

Testicular injury Testicular injury –Usually from an accidental hit to the testicles –Also occurs when one testicle twists around the other cutting off the blood supply

Steroid use Steroid use –Can cause sex organs to shrink –Can cause decrease in sex drive –Can cause liver and heart problems –As well may cause breast growth

Testicular cancer Testicular cancer –When cells inside the testicle divide abnormally and form a tumor –It can be cured if detected early –Testicular self evaluations should be done regularly and men should start as early as 15 years of age. Clues to look for: Clues to look for: –Change in size, shape, or tenderness –Swelling of testicles –Pain in testicles or scrotum –Dull ache in lower abdomen

Prostate cancer Prostate cancer –Most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canadian men –Regular check ups by a physician for prostate cancer should begin in your late 30s Symptoms of prostate cancer Symptoms of prostate cancer –Frequent, difficult, or painful urination –Blood or pus in urine –Pain in the lower back, pelvic, or upper thighs –Painful ejaculation