1. Ch. 18 Male/Female Reproduction
Lesson 4 – Problems with the Female Reproductive System

2. Problems with the female reproductive system
Premenstrual Syndrome
Discomfort before the menstrual period
Includes tension, mood swings, headaches, bloating, irritability
Reduce caffeine, salt, sugar, and alcohol
Physical Activity

3. Problems with the female reproductive system
Menopause
The ovaries slow down their hormone production and no longer release mature eggs;
Usually happens between 45-55

4. Problems with the female reproductive system
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Caused by bacterial infection related to tampon use
Symptoms include sudden high fever, chills, vomiting, diarrhea, and a rash
TSS can lead to death – all signs must be taken seriously!

5. Problems with the female reproductive system
Vaginitis
(a.k.a. Yeast Infection)
Inflammation of vaginal tissue.
Caused by antibiotics or tight and/or wet clothing.
Signs include a thick discharge, odors, itching, burning, and painful urination.
Over the counter medication can correct a yeast infection.

6. Problems with the female reproductive system
Ovarian Cysts
Growth on the inside of an ovary.
Small cysts are common and may go away on their own.
Larger cysts may have to be surgically removed.
Ovarian Cancer
Symptoms are similar to other diseases.
Early detection is critical.

7. Problems with the female reproductive system
Breast Cancer
Except for skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US.
About 200,000 women in the US will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year.
Nearly 40,000 will die from breast cancer this year.
About 2,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

8. Problems with the female reproductive system
Breast Cancer
Early detection is the best cure.
Mammogram – an x-ray of the breast; helps detect breast cancer early

9. Breast self-awareness From Susan G. Komen for the Cure
1. Know your risk
Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
Talk to your provider about your personal risk of breast cancer
2. Get screened
Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at a higher risk
Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk
Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40
3. Know what is normal for you See your health care provider if you notice any of these breast changes:
Lump, hard knot or thickening inside the breast or underarm area
Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening of the breast
Change in the size or shape of the breast
Dimpling or puckering of the skin
Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
New pain in one spot that doesn't go away
Breast self-awareness From Susan G. Komen for the Cure
*REMEMBER:
EARLY DETECTION IS THE BEST CURE FOR ANY CANCER!

10. Problems with the female reproductive system
Cervical Cancer
As with all cancers, the best way to battle cervical cancer is through early detection.
Gynecologist – a doctor who specializes in the health of the female reproductive system
Pap test/Pap smear – test for cancer of the cervix
A woman should visit a gynecologist yearly once they begin menstruating!