What does
Gynecology deal with?
Gynecology encompasses numerous diseases and procedures due to the complexity of female reproductive organs, their intricate physiological interactions, and anatomical relationships.
Among the diseases of external genitalia and vagina, inflammatory diseases are the most common, as these areas are frequently exposed to pathogens due to their contact with the external environment. These diseases often lead to bladder inflammation (cystitis, “catching a cold”) due to the location and relative shortness of the urethra. Typical symptoms of urethral and bladder inflammation include frequent, urgent urination and burning, stinging sensation during urination.
Vaginal inflammation caused by bacteria, fungi, or protozoa is quite common. Vaginal infections can develop spontaneously but can also be caused by various sexually transmitted pathogens. The most common symptoms of vaginal inflammation are unpleasant-smelling discharge and burning, itching sensation in the area.
Among gynecological diseases, cancerous conditions deserve special attention due to their unfortunate frequency. Among malignant tumors, cervical cancer is the most well-known. As with all malignant tumors, recovery is most likely with early detection. Therefore, annual gynecological screening is extremely important even in the absence of symptoms.
It’s important to know that significant risk factors for gynecological infections and cancerous diseases include frequent change of partners and unprotected intercourse. For cancer prevention, the HPV vaccine, which is freely available from age 14, deserves special mention.
Gynecology also covers topics of family planning and infertility. Under certain conditions, our Health Center offers the possibility of inserting or removing intrauterine contraceptive devices (“IUD”).
Irregular menstruation is a common problem, which also requires gynecological examination to screen for and treat possible serious conditions.
When should you visit gynecology?
How does a gynecological examination proceed?
Our specialist will ask about your previous known illnesses, medications, surgeries, and will inquire in detail about your complaints. During the gynecological examination, besides visual inspection of external genitalia, an instrument (“speculum”) needs to be inserted to examine the vagina and cervix. After exposure and inspection, a swab is taken using a long stick for cervical cancer screening. The examination is not painful, only causing mild discomfort. If necessary, additional information about internal reproductive organs (e.g., ovaries) can be obtained using transvaginal ultrasound.
Inflammatory diseases of the bladder, external genitalia, and vagina can be treated with oral tablets or vaginal cream depending on the pathogen.
The intrauterine contraceptive is a small metal device that provides reliable protection for several years in uncomplicated cases. It is inserted through the vagina and cervix. The procedure takes a few minutes and is generally not painful.