TRICHOMOSIASIS What is trichomoniasis? Trichomoniasis is an infection that you can get during sex. Infections that are spread during sex are called “sexually transmitted infections,” or “STIs.” What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis? Some people with trichomoniasis have no symptoms. This is true for most males and some females. In females, the symptoms of the infection …
VAGINAL INFECTIONS & BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS What is bacterial vaginosis? Bacterial vaginosis is an infection in the vagina that can cause bad-smelling vaginal discharge. “Vaginal discharge” is the term doctors and nurses use to describe any fluid that comes out of the vagina (figure 1). Some amount of vaginal discharge is normal. But people with bacterial …
PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME What are premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder? Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms that happens right before a woman gets her monthly period. Many women get PMS, especially mild PMS. When the symptoms are severe, doctors call it premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is not as common. What are the …
POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME What is polycystic ovary syndrome? Polycystic ovary syndrome, or “PCOS,” is a condition that can cause irregular periods, acne (oily skin and pimples), extra facial hair, or hair loss from the head. The condition can also make it hard to get pregnant. It is very common – about 5 to 8 percent …
UTERINE FIBROIDS What are fibroids? Fibroids are abnormal growths that form in the muscle of the uterus. The uterus, also called the womb, is the part of the body that holds a baby when a person is pregnant. People sometimes refer to fibroids as “tumors.” But fibroids are not a form of cancer. What are the symptoms …
ENDOMETRIOSIS What is endometriosis? Endometriosis is a condition that can cause pain in the lower part of the belly and trouble getting pregnant.The “endometrium” is the name for the inner lining of the uterus. In people with endometriosis, cells like those normally found in the endometrium grow outside of the uterus (figure 1). It is not known …
PAINFUL PERIODS Why are my periods so painful? During your period, your body makes chemicals called “prostaglandins.” These chemicals cause the uterus to contract or tighten. It’s the same kind of contraction that happens during labor and childbirth. Contractions during a period are normal. But, they can be painful. The medical name for painful periods …
HEAVY MENSTRUAL BLEEDING What causes heavy periods? There are many different causes of heavy periods. They include: One of your ovaries not releasing an egg during one or more months Growths in the uterus called “fibroids” A bleeding disorder that prevents your blood from clotting normally Side effects of some medicines, such as some types …
ABSENT OR INFREQUENT MENSES What are absent or irregular periods? Absent or irregular periods are periods that do not happen at all or that happen less than 6 to 8 times a year. If you do not get your period for a while, it could be because you are pregnant. Or there might be another …
STD SCREENING What are sexually transmitted infections? Sexually transmitted infections, often called STIs, are infections you can catch during sex. They are also called sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs. Most STIs are caused by bacteria or viruses. The most common STIs include: Chlamydia Gonorrhea Mycoplasma genitalium Genital herpes, also called “herpes simplex virus” or “HSV” …
