Yeast infection

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Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

A Viewer Asks: Can douching cause a yeast infection? Also, is it okay to douche after a yeast infection?

Dr. Stöppler's Answer: All healthy women have bacteria and other organisms in the vagina. The balance of organisms and the normal acidity of the vagina both act to prevent overgrowth of specific organisms, leading to symptoms of a vaginal infection. Douching disturbs the normal environment of the vagina...

Yeast is a type of fungus; when one speaks of a yeast infection this is referring to the fungus scientifically known as Candida. The specific type of fungus most commonly responsible for vaginitis is Candida albicans. Yeast is commonly present on normal human skin and in areas of moisture, such as the mouth and vagina. In fact, it is estimated that between 20%-50% of healthy women normally carry yeast in the vaginal area.

Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina. Vaginitis is very common and is reported by as many as 75% of women at some point in their lives. Vaginitis can be caused by a number of infections as well as noninfectious causes such as trauma or chemical irritation. Infectious vaginitis has numerous casuses including bacteria (such as Gardnerella and gonorrhea), protozoans (such as trichomonas), and yeast (Candida). Vaginal yeast infection, which is the most common form of vaginitis, is often referred to as vaginal Candidiasis.

Vulvitis is inflammation of the external genital organs of the female (the vulva). The vulva includes the labia, clitoris, and entrance to the vagina (the vestibule of the vagina). An inflammation of the vulva is referred to as vulvitis. Vulvitis, like vaginitis, may be caused by a number of different infections or noninfectious causes. Because the vulva is also often inflamed when there is inflammation of the vagina, vaginitis is sometimes referred to as vulvovaginitis.

Reviewed by William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR on 7/20/2012

Yeast Infection - Prevention Question: What prevention measures do you use to avoid getting a yeast infection? Yeast Infection - Effective Treatments Question: What kinds of treatments have been effective for your yeast infection? Bacterial Vaginosis Bacterial vaginosis is an abnormal vaginal condition that is characterized by vaginal discharge resulting from an overgrowth of normal bacteria in the vagina. Although it may cause some disturbing symptoms (discharge and odor), it is not dangerous and cannot be passed by sex. Diagnosis becomes important to exclude serious infections like gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Many treatment options are available such as oral antibiotics and vaginal gels.Pregnancy (Stages - Trimesters of Pregnancy) There are many symptoms involved in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. The first early pregnancy symptom is typically a missed period, but others include breast swelling and tenderness, nausea and sometimes vomiting, fatigue and bloating. Second trimester symptoms include backache, weight gain, itching, and possible stretch marks. Third trimester symptoms are additional weight gain, heartburn, hemorrhoids, swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face, breast tenderness, and trouble sleeping. Read more to learn about recommended procedures and tests for each stage of a healthy pregnancy.Anal Itching Anal itching is the irritation of the skin at the exit of the rectum, known as the anus, accompanied by the desire to scratch. Causes include everything from irritating foods we eat, to certain disease and infections. Treatment options include local anesthetics, vasoconstrictors, protectants, astringents, antiseptics, keratolytics, analgesics, and corticosteroids. If condition persists, a doctor examination may be needed to identify an underlying cause. Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2) Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. The two types of diabetes are referred to as type 1 (insulin dependent) and type 2 (non-insulin dependent). Symptoms of diabetes include increased urine output, thirst, hunger, and fatigue. Treatment of diabetes depends on the type.Jock Itch Jock itch is an itchy red rash that appears in the groin area. The rash may be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. People with diabetes and those who are obese are more susceptible to developing jock itch. Antifungal shampoos, creams, and pills may be needed to treat fungal jock itch. Bacterial jock itch may be treated with antibacterial soaps and topical and oral antibiotics.Vaginitis Vaginitis is any type of vaginal infection or inflammation. The six most common types of vaginitis are Candida (yeast infections), bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis vaginitis, chlamydia vaginitis, viral vaginitis, and noninfectious vaginitis. Symptoms include itching, burning, and abnormal vaginal discharge. Treatment is different for each type of vaginitis.Vaginal Pain (Vulvodynia) Vulvodynia or vaginal pain, genital pain is a condition in which women have chronic vulvar pain with no known cause. There are two types of vulvodynia, generalized vulvodynia and vulvar vestibulitis. Researchers are trying to find the causes of vulvodynia, which may include nerve irritation, genetic factors, hypersensitivity to yeast infections, muscle spasms, hormonal changes, and more. The most common symptoms of vaginal pain (vulvodynia) is burning, rawness, itching, stinging, aching, soreness, and throbbing. There are a variety of treatments that can ease the symptoms of vulvodynia (vaginal pain). Lichen Sclerosus Lichen sclerosus is a skin disease that causes white spots to form on the skin, which later grow into large, thin, and crinkled patches of skin that tear easily. Symptoms include itching, pain, blisters, and bleeding. Patches on the upper body usually go away over time, but patches in the genital region may scar if left untreated, causing problems with urination or sex. Treatment may involve surgery or the use of a very strong cortisone cream.Vaginal Dryness Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy occurs in women during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. With vaginal atrophy, the lining of the vaginal wall becomes thinner, drier, less elastic, and light pink to bluish in color. Symptoms of vaginal atrophy include vaginal dryness, itching, irritation, and/or pain during intercourse. Treatment options for vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy include hormone treatment and over-the-counter vaginal lubricating and moisturizing products.Women's Health Women's health is an important topic area to guide a woman through the stages of her life, as well as knowing the conditions and diseases that may occur. Educating yourself so that the transitions into different phases of life is key to a healthy, happy, and productive life.Pregnancy Planning Pregnancy planning is important to help prevent exposure of the mother and fetus to potentially harmful medications and substances during the early days, and throughout the pregnancy. Nutritional planning, prevention of birth defects, conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease need careful monitoring. Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and pregnancy induced hypertension are conditions that may arise during pregnancy. Immunizations, inherited disorders, exercise, air travel, intercourse, and birth control are important factors to consider when planning a pregnancy.Sexual Health Sexual health information including birth control, impotence, herpes, sexually transmitted diseases, staying healthy, women's sexual health concerns, and men's sexual health concerns. Learn about the most common sexual conditions affecting men and women.Antibiotic Resistance (Drug Resistance, Antimicrobial Resistance) Drug resistance (antimicrobial resistance) is the ability of bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses to grow, even in the presence of a drug that would normally kill it (or limit it's growth). Drug resistance is a growing problem, particularly for infections such as MRSA, VRE (vancomycin-resistant enterococci), tuberculosis, HIV, STDs, gonorrhea, flu, pneumonia, malaria, E. coli, salmonella, Campylobacter, which causes diarrhea and gastroenteritis. Learn how to protect yourself from resistance to drugs.Diabetic Home Care Management Diabetic home care management is important. The goal of diabetic therapy is to control blood glucose levels and prevent the complications of diabetes. Information about exercise, diet diet, and medication will help you manage your diabetes better. Blood glucose reagent strips, blood glucose meters, urine glucose tests, tests for urinary ketones, continuous glucose sensors, and Hemoglobin A1C testing information will enable you to mange your diabetes at home successfully.

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Menstrual cycles may affect women shops templates

Tuesday, 31 July, HealthDay News)--the hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle of women can color their shopping habits, research shows.

"Our goal was to explore how women's menstrual cycle affect consumption desire, use of the product, and dollars spent in the food and upgrading domains," study first author Saad Gad, Professor of marketing, John Molson School of business, said in a press release from the University of Concordia in Montreal.

In the study, researchers selected 59 women and asked them to keep detailed diaries for their beauty routine, choice of service, your calorie intake and all that they bought for 35 days.

The researchers also analyzed daily reviews women responded to these topics that were interested in their choice of clothes and how long they spent grooming. Participants were also asked about the activities of both sunbathing and high-calorie foods. The study revealed a pattern of behaviour of women.

During the fertile women menstrual cycles (approximately eight hours in 15 of the 28-day cycle), the researchers found a significant increase in attention to appearance. During their fertile days women are also more likely to buy clothes, the study found.

The authors of the study suggested that the explanation for this pattern of behavior can be traced to women evolutionary roots.

"Ancestral times, women have had to focus on activities related to mating more time the fertile phase of the menstrual cycle when the probability of conception was high," Saad explained in a press release. "The same psychological and physiological mechanisms now lead women to greater consumption of products relevant to reproductive drives on the fertile phase of their cycle.

Although food intake among women fell during their fertile days, research has revealed their appetites peak in sterile or luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (day 16-28 28-day cycle). The researchers noted women cravings for high calorie foods spiked at this time, as well as their food purchases.

"Women consume more calories during the luteal phase, because they developed psychological and physiological mechanisms that favored not mating-related activities as food foraging during the fertile phase of their cycle," said Saad. Miscellaneous Darwin pulls, such as pairing against food take precedence depending on menstrual status of women. "

The authors of the study said their findings may shed light on these behaviors and help women to take more informed decisions that can affect their spending and eating habits.

"These behaviors without conscious awareness of consumption, women on how hormonal fluctuations affect their choices as consumers," said Saad. "Our study helps identify where women are most vulnerable to cyclical temptations for high-calorie foods and enhance the appearance of the product. These results may help women make the choice for himself, contrary to the old canard of biological determinism.

Consumption-related smartphone app can help women track their daily purchases, their vulnerability to certain high risk days in their cycle, the authors of the study suggested.

The study was recently published in the journal of consumer psychology.

Dallas — Mary Elizabeth Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Source: Concordia University, press release, July 2012

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Working woman can raise the risk of heart attack?

High voltage work may increase the risk of heart attack for women

By Kathleen Doheny
WebMD Health News

Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD

July 18, 2012-women with jobs high voltages at high risk of heart attacks and other heart problems, compared to those with lower stress jobs, according to a new study.

"Women have a high job strain, 40% more likely to have cardiovascular events, compared with women who were in the category of low voltage," said researcher Michael a. Albert, MD, MPH, Brigham and women's Hospital cardiologist and associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.

High voltage is defined as the high demand and low control, "she said. An example is the work of the factory in which a worker is the pressure to produce.

Then find a surprise. Women in what she calls '' active strain '' jobs--is very demanding, but with high control--the same increased risk in high stress, low control positions.

Insecurity of employment, are not associated with risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems, Albert also found.

A study Published in PLoS ONE.

The researchers followed more than 22000 participants in the long-running health study. The average age of women was 57.

The women were divided into four groups working strain. Deformation work takes into account the requirements and control that has worked. These groups are:

Low voltage: low demand, high controlPassive: with low demand, low controlActive: with high demand, high controlHigh voltage: with high demand, low control

The researchers followed the women for 10 years, wants to see who was one of four types of events. They found:

170 attacks163 heart strokes440 heart procedures such stents, bypass surgery, or angioplasty52 deaths from cardiovascular disease

The researchers took into account other factors that can affect heart health, age, race, education and income.

Even then, they found almost 40% increase in risk of any of the four results in women's groups active or high voltage.

When they just watched nonfatal heart attack, they found that the women in the Group of 67% high voltage higher than those in the low-voltage have one.

Also, they looked at depression and anxiety. These factors explain only about 20% of relationships, Albert tells WebMD. More research is needed to further explain the relationship, "she said.

The instability in the employment sphere, does not appear to increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, "she said.

New findings differ from some previous studies, said Mika Kivimaki, PhD, Professor of social epidemiology, University College of London. He reviewed the results.

He has published reports on the stress and cardiovascular disease. Researchers at University College London have long study Whitehall, also known as stress health research &, after more than 10000 British men and women.

It was previously thought that high job demands increase the risk of heart disease, only if the employee is additionally has a bad decision authority at work, "says Kivimaki.

"It is a study of United States women is important because it suggests that this may not be the case. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease was also seen among women who need jobs, combined with high performance management. "

However, he said that the researchers simply the relationship between work stress and heart health, but cannot prove cause and effect.

It's hard to take into account all of the risk factors that can play, said Peter Schnall, MD, MPH, Professor of clinical medicine at the University of California, Irvine.

He is also the Director of the Center for occupational and environmental health programme in the Organization of work and cardiovascular diseases.

"Field studies of stress but now focuses on work strain, but in the last 10 years were registered dozens of work-related risk factors," he tells WebMD.

Among the most dangerous heart factors? Working long hours, low wages and in the face of the threat of harm, he said. For example, a bus driver.

Women with high stress jobs should give extra attention to the way of life, "said Albert. A woman may focus on personal time, doing yoga and meditation or even pray.

Most important? «Find the thing that works for you, to reduce stress, "she says.

Sources: Slopen, PLoS one, July 2012 year. Michelle a. Albert, MD, mph, cardiologist, Brigham and women's Hospital and associate professor of medicine, Harvard Medical School. Mika Kivimaki, PhD, Professor of social epidemiology, University College of London. Peter Schnall, MD, MPH, a Professor of clinical medicine, University of California, Irvine; Director, Center for occupational and environmental health programme in the Organization of work and cardiovascular disease, University of California Irvine.

© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Urinary Incontinence Underreported in Young Women

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Medical group said key elements well woman exams

Tuesday, 24 July, HealthDay News)--the latest guidelines for cervical cancer screening say that most women don't need annual Pap smears, but they still need yearly exams well woman with their obstetrician/gynecologist, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

In the opinion of the Committee, released Monday, the College outlines when women should undergo pelvic exams, which women need clinical examination of mammary glands and why the Bureau visit the annual well woman is important.

Annual well woman exam is an opportunity for doctors to advise patients about following a healthy lifestyle and reducing health risks. The trip includes a physical exam that assesses general health, including blood pressure and weight.

A pelvic exam is a common part of the visit, the OB-GYN and includes three parts: external examination, an internal exam and exam mirror internal/external keyboard, according to the press release of the APS. Women should begin annual pelvic exams are held at the age of 21.

Young women do not have to pass an internal examination, if they do not have signs of menstrual disorders, vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or other symptoms related to reproductive, said College.

Screening for sexually transmitted infections can be done using urine or vaginal tampons without an internal exam.

Another important part of the visit, the good woman is a clinical breast exam. This should be done every one to three years for women aged 20 to 39, according to ACOG and other groups, health/medical. Women aged 40 years and older must have annual mammograms and clinical breast exams annually, ACOG recommends.

Decisions on the appropriateness of the internal pelvic exam breast exams or should always be with the consent of the patient, "said ACOG.

In the August issue of the journal obstetrics and Gynecology & appears in the Committee's opinion.

--Robert Preidt Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, press release, July 23, 2012

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More women's College to smoke hookah

Monday, 30 July, HealthDay News)--for the first time to smoke tobacco shisha (water pipe) is used more often among the students of women's College United States in their first year, a new study finds.

The researchers surveyed 483 freshman College women and found that not using hookah to 343 of the College. 23% of Students attempted to 343 hookah smoking during their first year of College.

Use of Hookah, appear to be associated with the use of alcohol and marijuana. The students consumed more alcohol, the more likely they were to try hookah. Students who use marijuana is smoking Hookah, more frequently than others.

Researchers also found that certain personality traits, such as higher levels of impulsivity and a strong tendency to compare yourself to others, predicted the frequency of use of the hookah.

The study was published online in the journal psychology of addictive behaviors.

The results are troubling because there has been a sharp increase in hookah smoking rates among young people in the United States over the past two decades, said researchers at the Miriam Hospital in Providence, r.i.

Some studies show that levels of kalyana among young people are on a par with smoking cigarettes.

The researchers noted that many students mistakenly believe that hookah safer than cigarettes, but the hookah has been associated with many of the same diseases caused by cigarettes, including lung cancer, respiratory infections and gum disease.

"The popularity and social nature of Hookah, coupled with the fact that College Freshmen increasingly experiment with risky behavior that could pave the way for potential health problems, given what we know about the dangers of smoking Hookah," lead author Robyn Fielder, Miriam Hospital centers research intern behavioral and preventive medicine, stated in a press release.

--Robert Preidt Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Source: Miriam Hospital, press release, July 2012

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Women with HIV may not have a high risk of cervical cancer: study

Monday, 23 July, HealthDay News)--Infection with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS--did not appear to increase the risk of cervical cancer, a new survey showed.

The researchers looked at more than 400 HIV infected women and nearly 300 HIV-free women, all of whom had normal Pap test and a negative result for tumors cause of human papillomavirus DNA in the beginning of the study. Know that some types of the human papilloma virus (HPV) causes cervical cancer.

After five years of follow-up, the risk of precancerous cervical diseases was similarly low for both groups of women. None of the women developed cancer of the cervix, Dr. Howard Strickler and colleagues at Albert Einstein College of medicine at Yeshiva University in New York said in a press release.

The study was scheduled to present a briefing Sunday at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, the District of Colombia and appears in the July 25 issue of the journal of the American Medical Association.

The results show that the five-year risk of cervical cancer in HIV-infected women who have normal Pap smear and HPV tumour without causing a risk similar to HIV-free women, researchers say.

"Current investigation underscores the potential for a new era of molecular testing--including HPV, as well as other biomarkers--to improve cervical cancer screening in HIV-infected women," in conclusion, the authors of the study.

--Robert Preidt Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Source: Journal of the American Medical Association, press release, July 22, 2012

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Child abuse can alter the onset of menstruation in girls

Friday, August 3)--HealthDay News girls who are physically or sexually assaulted can start menstruation earlier or later than average, according to a new study.

After analyzing the information about women, 69000 researchers from Boston University School of Medicine found that the sexual abuse in childhood were 49% more likely to have their first period to 11 years than women who had not been abused. Women who suffered heavy physical abuse have a 50% increase in risk for starting their menstrual cycles later, or after 15 years.

In the United States during times of girls start at an average of about 12.5 years, according to the national institutes of health United States. Studies do not suggest, however, that the girl who starts menstruating earlier or later than usual, have been subjected to violence.

"In our study was associated with the accelerated and delayed age at menarche cruel and it is important that these associations vary with the type of abuses that suggest that child abuse is not a homogeneous impact on health," said study leader Dr. Renée Boynton-Jarrett, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University Press release.

"There is a need for further research to study the characteristics of child abuse that might affect health outcomes, including the type and severity of the abuse, as well as the social context in which the abuse occurs," Boynton-Jarrett.

The researchers noted that girls who menstruate early can be at greater risk for certain health problems such as heart disease, cancer, metabolic dysfunction and depression. In the meantime, the girls who menstruate later may be more likely to have depression and lower bone mineral density.

"We must work towards a better understanding of how abuse affects the health and translate these findings into clinical practice and public health strategy to improve the welfare of victims of ill-treatment," Boynton-Jarrett said.

The study was published online July 26 in the journal of adolescent health.

Dallas — Mary Elizabeth Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Source: Boston University Medical Center, press release, July 27, 2012

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Health care reform: No-Cost contraception begins today

Health reform law to expand 8 free preventive services-health from birth control for breastfeeding support--47 million women

By Lisa Zamosky
WebMD Health News

Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD

1 August 2012-Today ushers in the new health reform law, which makes additional preventive health services — from contraception for HPV--are available free of charge to approximately 47 million women.

Women with health plans that begin on or after August 1, 2012, should now be allowed access to the eight new preventive health services without co-pays or deductibles. Eight new services that are available, starting today are:

Well woman visitsGestational screeningDomestic diabetes and interpersonal violence screening and approved the counselingFDA of contraception, including condoms and education and counselingBreastfeeding support, supply and counselingHPV DNA testing for women aged 30 or olderCounseling for sexually active women of sexual infectionsHIV, testing and counselling for sexually active women

These services rely on the register of existing preventive, health reform law, officially called the affordable care Act (ACA) already makes available, for free, to people with private insurance and Medicare, including annual visits to wellness, cholesterol and other cardiovascular screenings and cancer screenings including mammography, colonoscopy, and cervical cancer screening.

Eight facilities were recommended by the independent Institute of medicine in the Department of health and human services after an extensive scientific review.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) welcomed the ACA additional women's preventive health services as an important step towards the provision of necessary medical assistance and more women.

Today, our nation reaffirms the importance of women's access to needed preventive care, "AGS President James t. Breeden, m.d., stated in a press release. "The annual visit of the good woman is a fundamental part of health care and seeks to prevent the practices recognized risk factors for the disease, identifies the medical problems and establishes a relationship often throughout the life of the patient by a doctor. This annual visit provides an excellent opportunity for gynecologists to counsel patients about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and to minimize health risks.

Bryden adds that contraception, which is already covered by most plans sponsored by employers, plays an important role in optimizing health before pregnancy and childbirth, ultimately leads to a healthy pregnancy and birth.

The law always allowed to churches and other religious organizations a choice of either buying or sponsoring group health insurance do not pay for contraception if it is contrary to their beliefs.

But religiously affiliated groups such as universities and hospitals were not included in this exception.

This caused an uproar among many religious groups, including the Catholic Church. Obama administration says he has. Insurance companies providing health plans for employers with religious affiliation would be required to cover the cost of contraceptives, not the employer. Obama administration extended until August 2013 for religious institutions in accordance with the law.

Eliminating the costs associated with women's preventive health services has been identified as an important factor in overcoming the main obstacles to the necessary assistance.

2009 report of the Commonwealth Fund found that more than half of the women--to more than 25% since 2007 year-delay or avoid preventive care due to cost. In addition, the Government refers to the study, which found that the use of women on mammography went up to 9% when costs for testing have been removed.

Although the provision enters into force today, most women do not have access to free preventive care before their year plan. For most Americans, what could be in January 2013, when most of the health insurance resume.

Grandfathered health plans--those who are already in place when the affordable care Act became Law in March 2010, and that has not made significant changes in their benefits--are exempted from the new requirements.

Sources: press release, Department of health social services & United States. Healthcare.gov news: affordable care Act rules to improve access to prevention services for women ". Press release, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. WebMD Health News: "health care reform: questions and answers."

© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

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Vaginal bleeding

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Some of the symptoms of menopause can actually begin years before menstrual periods stop occurring. Doctors generally use the term "perimenopause" to refer to the time period beginning prior to the menopause (when some of the signs and symptoms of menopause begin to occur) up through the first year following menopause. Menopause itself is defined as having had 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.

Menopause symptoms begin gradually while the ovaries are still functioning and a woman is still having menstrual periods. These symptoms can begin as early as the 4th decade of life (when a woman is in her 30s) and may persist for years until menopause has occurred. The symptoms occur early because the levels of hormones produced by the ovaries (estrogen and progesterone) decline slowly over time, explaining why pregnancy is still possible, but less likely to occur, as a woman reaches her forties. The severity and duration of symptoms vary widely among individuals - some women may experience only minimal symptoms for a year or two, while others may experience at least some of the symptoms for several years.

Normal vaginal bleeding is the periodic blood that flows as a discharge from the woman's uterus. Normal vaginal bleeding is also called menorrhea. The process by which menorrhea occurs is called menstruation. In order to determine whether bleeding is abnormal, and its cause, the doctor must answer 3 questions: Is the woman pregnant? What is the pattern of the bleeding? Is she ovulating? Abnormal vaginal bleeding in women who are ovulating regularly most commonly involves excessive, frequent, irregular, or decreased bleeding. There are many causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding that are associated with irregular ovulation. A woman who has irregular menstrual periods requires a physical examination with a special emphasis on the thyroid, breast, and pelvic area. Treatment for irregular vaginal bleeding depends on the underlying cause. After the cause is determined, the doctor decides if treatment is actually necessary.

Normal vaginal bleeding is the periodic blood that flows as a discharge from the woman's uterus. Normal vaginal bleeding is also called menorrhea. The process by which menorrhea occurs is called menstruation.

Normal vaginal bleeding occurs as a result of cyclic hormonal changes. The ovaries are the main source of female hormones, which control the development of female body characteristics such as the breasts, body shape, and body hair. The hormones also regulate the menstrual cycle. The ovary, or female gonad, is one of a pair of reproductive glands in women. They are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs (ova) and female hormones. During each monthly menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one ovary. The egg travels from the ovary through a Fallopian tube to the uterus.

Unless pregnancy occurs, the cycle ends with the shedding of part of the inner lining of uterus, which results in menstruation. Although it is actually the end of the physical cycle, the first day of menstrual bleeding is designated as "day 1" of the menstrual cycle in medical jargon.

The time of the cycle during which menstruation occurs is referred to as menses. The menses occurs at approximately four week intervals, representing the menstrual cycle.

Menarche is the time in a girl's life when menstruation first begins. Menopause is the time in a woman's life when the function of the ovaries ceases and menstrual periods stop. The average age of menopause is 51 years old.

Reviewed by William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR on 7/20/2012

Yeast Infection Yeast vaginitis is a yeast infection of the vagina. Symptoms include itching, burning, soreness, pain during intercourse and urination, and vaginal discharge. Yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Pregnancy (Stages - Trimesters of Pregnancy) There are many symptoms involved in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. The first early pregnancy symptom is typically a missed period, but others include breast swelling and tenderness, nausea and sometimes vomiting, fatigue and bloating. Second trimester symptoms include backache, weight gain, itching, and possible stretch marks. Third trimester symptoms are additional weight gain, heartburn, hemorrhoids, swelling of the ankles, fingers, and face, breast tenderness, and trouble sleeping. Read more to learn about recommended procedures and tests for each stage of a healthy pregnancy.Blood Clots Blood clots can occur in the venous and arterial vascular system. Blood clots can form in the heart, legs, arteries, veins, bladder, urinary tract and uterus. Risk factors for blood clots include high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and family history. Symptoms of a blood clot depend on the location of the clot. Some blood clots are a medical emergency. Blood clots are treated depending upon the cause of the clot. Blood clots can be prevented by lowering the risk factors for developing blood clots.Anemia Anemia is the condition of having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is, therefore, decreased. Symptoms of anemia may include fatigue, malaise, hair loss, palpitations, and more. Treatment for anemia includes treating the underlying cause for the condition. Iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections, and certain medications may also be necessary. Hypothyroidism Hypothyroidism is any state in which thyroid hormone production is below normal. Normally, the rate of thyroid hormone production is controlled by the brain at the pituitary. Hypothyroidism is a very common condition and the symptoms of hypothyroidism are often subtle.Endometriosis Endometriosis is the growth of cells similar to those that form the inside of the uterus, but in a location outside of the uterus. Endometriosis implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic cavity. They can also be found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder. Treatment of endometriosis can be with medication or surgery.Menopause Menopause is the time in a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop, also called the “change of life." Menopause symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular vaginal bleeding, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary incontinence, weight gain, and emotional symptoms such as mood swings. Treatment of menopausal symptoms varies, and should be discussed with your physician. Uterine Cancer Though uterine cancer's cause is unknown, there are many factors that will put a woman at risk, including: over age 50, endometrial hyperplasia, using hormone replacement therapy, obesity, using tamoxifen, being Caucasian, having colorectal cancer. Symptoms of cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer) include abnormal vaginal bleeding, painful urination, painful intercourse, and pelvic pain. Treatment depends on staging and may include radiation therapy or hormone therapy.Ectopic Pregnancy An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy located outside the inner lining of the uterus. The majority of ectopic pregnancies occur in the Fallopian tube. 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Signs and symptoms include fever, low blood pressure, rash, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Left untreated, the patient will experience confusion, dizziness, headaches, seizures, and multiorgan failure. Treatment involves intravenous fluids and antibiotics, oxygen administration, surgery to drain the source of infection, and removal of tampons, nasal packings, or other sources of infection.Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is considered to be a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMDD has also been referred to as late luteal phase dysphoric disorder. The cause of PMDD is unknown. Some of the common symptoms of PMDD (not an inclusive list) include: mood swings, bloating, fatigue, headache, irritability, headache, breast tenderness, acne, hot flashes and more. Treatment for PMDD is with medication to treat the symptoms of PMDD. Graves' Disease Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid. Some of the symptoms of Graves' disease include hand tremors, rapid heartbeat, trouble sleeping, enlarged thyroid, thinning of the skin or fine brittle hair. Causes of Graves' disease are thought to be multifactorial such as genes, gender, stress, and infection. Treatment for Graves' disease is generally medication.Women's Health Women's health is an important topic area to guide a woman through the stages of her life, as well as knowing the conditions and diseases that may occur. Educating yourself so that the transitions into different phases of life is key to a healthy, happy, and productive life.See All Related Diseases & Conditions »

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20% of U.S. Women Uninsured in 2010, Up From 15% in 2000: Report

AppId is over the quota
AppId is over the quota
By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

FRIDAY, July 13 (HealthDay News) -- Twenty percent of American women had no health insurance in 2010, up from 15 percent in 2000, a new report reveals.

In addition to the nearly 19 million uninsured women, another 17 million women were underinsured in 2010, according to the report, released Friday by the Commonwealth Fund. The fund is a private foundation that seeks to promote improved health care, especially for low-income people, the uninsured, minority Americans, children and the elderly.

The report also compared insurance coverage for U.S. women to women in 10 other industrialized countries: Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, all of which have universal health coverage.

While uninsured women in the United States were likely to have problems paying medical bills and getting health care, many insured American women also face these problems, compared with women in other countries, the study found.

Other highlights of the report include:

U.S. women had problems paying medical bills at double the rate of women in any other country studied. In the United States, 26 percent of women had medical bill problems, compared with 13 percent in Australia, 12 percent in France, and 4 percent in Germany. 39 percent of American women spent $1,000 or more in out-of-pocket medical costs during 2009-2010, compared with 24 percent of women in Switzerland, 1 percent in Sweden, and 0 percent in the United Kingdom. 43 percent of U.S. women went without recommended care, didn't see a doctor when they were sick, or didn't fill prescriptions because of cost, compared with 28 percent in Germany and Australia, 8 percent in the Netherlands, and 7 percent in the United Kingdom. Only 52 percent of American women were sure they could afford health care if they became seriously ill, compared with 91 percent of women in the United Kingdom, 77 percent in the Netherlands and 76 percent in Switzerland.

For uninsured women the problems were worse, according to the report, titled "Oceans Apart: The Higher Health Costs of Women in the U.S. Compared to Other Nations, and How Reform Is Helping."

51 percent of uninsured U.S. women had a problem paying medical bills. 77 percent went without needed health care due to costs, more than double the rates of women in other countries.

The report also found insurance differences in the United States among states.

For example, 30 percent of women in Texas were uninsured, compared with 5 percent in Massachusetts, which has a universal health insurance law similar to the Affordable Care Act, the controversial health-reform legislation signed into law in 2010 by President Barack Obama.

Many of these problems will be solved when the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented, the study authors said.

"With the Supreme Court upholding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act, the nation is moving forward on ensuring access to high-quality care for all Americans," Karen Davis, president of the Commonwealth Fund, said during a Thursday news conference.

Once the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented in 2014, the rate of uninsured women will drop from 20 percent to 8 percent, the study authors contended.

Under the Act, women can already get preventive care with no co-pay or deductible for services such as screenings for cervical, breast and colon cancer, cholesterol checks, and osteoporosis and chlamydia screenings. And insurance companies cannot deny coverage because of a preexisting condition, the study authors added.

The law will also prevent insurance companies from charging women higher premiums because of their gender or health.

Dr. Bradley Flansbaum, director of Hospitalist Services at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, said "the Affordable Care Act fills in the gaps for women's services."

There are disparities in women's health care in coverage and premium costs, he noted.

"It's almost considered that having an extra X chromosome is considered a disability," Flansbaum said. "The Affordable Care Act levels the playing field."

Because not all states are going to increase Medicaid benefits as outlined in the law, there will still be gaps in coverage for women on Medicaid in some states, he added.

The new report is not without critics.

They include Greg Scandlen, director of the Health Benefits Group Inc., which offers health insurance and life insurance to individuals and groups. "This report is a wonderful example of how you can prove anything if you cherry-pick the data carefully enough," he said.

Women aren't disadvantaged when it comes to health insurance, Scandlen said, adding, "In fact, women are far more likely to be covered than are men at nearly every age."

There are sex-based differences in all insurance markets, Scandlen said. "Women pay more for health insurance than men because they consume far more services than men. In the life and auto insurance markets, women pay far less than men because they drive safer and live longer," he said.

By looking at health care in other countries, Scandlen said, the report didn't take into account long wait times for care and the rationing of care in other nations.

"The Affordable Care Act may very well remove price obstacles to care, although that remains to be seen," he said. "But if it floods the system with new patients without increasing the supply of providers, it may result in less actual care for everyone."

Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SOURCES: Bradley Flansbaum, D.O., M.P.H., director, Hospitalist Services, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York City; Greg Scandlen, director, Health Benefits Group; July 12, 2012, press conference with: Karen Davis, president, The Commonwealth Fund; July 13, 2012, report, Oceans Apart: The Higher Health Costs of Women in the U.S. Compared to Other Nations, and How Reform Is Helping

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