Womens Issues

Most Common Reproductive Disorders

Reproductive science has helped many couples struggling with infertility overcome the condition to get pregnant and carry a child to term. Reproductive fertility centers exist that are dedicated to helping couples accomplish their goals by finding relief from various reproductive disorders. While some disorders may be more common than others, many with rare conditions have also found relief and overcome the condition. PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is considered a fairly common condition for women and one of the common causes of female infertility.

PCOS is a condition of the ovaries in which many women with the condition may experience cysts on the ovaries, which may be enlarged. Not all women with PCOS experience cysts on their ovaries, however. Symptoms may include abnormal menstrual periods and excessive hair growth, as well as several others. If the condition is not diagnosed, certain long-term complications or risks may occur including type 2 diabetes, stroke or heart disease.

Endometriosis is a condition in which the endometrium, which lines the uterus, grows elsewhere. The fallopian tubes and ovaries, as well as other tissue in the pelvis region, are common locations in which the endometrium grows when endometriosis is present. The endometrium acts normally, thickens and breaking down every month, but the blood is trapped and may cause problems around the surrounding tissues.

Inflammation of the vagina, which is called vaginitis, may be caused by an infection, reduced estrogen levels following menopause or an alteration in the balance of vaginal bacteria. Signs and symptoms of the disease may include vaginal discharge, itching and pain, although these symptoms may vary from one patient to the next. Some women do not experience any symptoms. A treatment regimen may include antibiotics.

For men, prostate cancer may inhibit the production of seminal fluid, which the sperm relies upon for nourishment and transport. The cells in the prostate multiply and mutate quickly with prostate cancer and may spread to other parts of the body, so urgent treatment is essential. This type of cancer is typically slow to grow, and remains in the prostate gland in many cases. However, this should not stop individuals from acting quickly.

Low sperm count may also affect male reproduction and may lead to infertility. Erectile dysfunction such as an inability to achieve and sustain an erection, or when an erection is sustained for only a short period, may also lead to problems conceiving. There are several oral medications to help treat erectile dysfunction.