Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow abnormally and form a tumour. It is the most common cancer in women worldwide and early detection significantly improves treatment success. Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Prevention & Risk Reduction Screening Diagnosis Treatment Options Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) eGynaecologist Advice
Women face a 1 in 5 lifetime risk of Alzheimer’s—nearly twice that of men to develop Dementia. After menopause, declining oestrogen accelerates brain aging and vulnerability. But up to 40% of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed through targeted actions. Key Risk Factors Unique to Women Factor Why It Matters Early menopause (<45) Longer lifetime oestrogen deficit → faster
Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition where the bladder muscles contract involuntarily, causing sudden urges to urinate that may be hard to control. It is not a normal part of aging and can often be improved with treatment. Common Symptoms Causes & Triggers OAB develops when bladder nerves or muscles malfunction. Contributing factors: Diagnosis Your doctor may recommend:
Painful Bladder Syndrome (PBS), also called Interstitial Cystitis (IC), is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, pain, and frequent urination. Unlike infections, PBS involves bladder wall inflammation without bacteria. Symptoms vary daily and can significantly impact quality of life. Common Symptoms Causes & Triggers The exact cause is unknown, but contributing factors include: Diagnosis PBS is diagnosed by excluding
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria—most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli)—enter and multiply in parts of the urinary system such as the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), or kidneys (pyelonephritis). While many UTIs are isolated events, some individuals experience repeated episodes over a short period—this is known as recurrent UTI. You may be at risk
Post-coital bleeding refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs after sexual intercourse. It can range from light spotting to heavier bleeding and may happen occasionally or repeatedly. While often not serious, it should always be evaluated to rule out underlying conditions. Common Symptoms Possible Causes Diagnosis Treatment & Management Self-Care & Prevention Frequently asked Questions: eGynaecologist Advice:
Intermenstrual bleeding (IMB) refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs between regular menstrual periods. It can range from light spotting to heavier flow and may happen unpredictably. While sometimes harmless, it can signal an underlying condition that needs medical attention. Common Symptoms Possible Causes IMB can result from various factors, including: Diagnosis Treatment Options Treatment depends on
Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak, brittle, and prone to fractures due to loss of density.Common fracture sites: hips, spine, and wrists. After menopause, declining oestrogen levels accelerate bone loss, increasing osteoporosis risk. Often called a “silent disease” because bone loss occurs without symptoms until a fracture happens.1 in 3 women over 50 will experience an osteoporotic fracture
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that help repair DNA damage and prevent cancer. These are considered as body’s “spellcheckers” – they fix errors in DNA to keep cells healthy. Mutations (harmful changes) in these genes reduce their ability to repair DNA, increasing cancer risk. These mutations are inherited from either parent. Cancer Risks Associated with BRCA Mutations Should You
Lynch syndrome (LS) is an inherited condition that increases the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal and endometrial cancers. It is caused by changes (mutations) in genes that normally help repair DNA errors. Without these repairs, cells can turn cancerous. LS is also called hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). Causes Cancer Risks People with LS have
A Bartholin abscess occurs when one of the Bartholin glands (located on either side of the vaginal opening) becomes blocked and infected. These glands normally secrete fluid to lubricate the vagina. When the duct is blocked, fluid builds up, forming a cyst. If the cyst becomes infected, it turns into a painful abscess. Symptoms Causes
Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition where the lining of the uterus (womb) becomes thicker than normal. It is not cancer, but in some cases, it can develop into cancer if left untreated. There are two main types: Causes Endometrial hyperplasia is often caused by excess oestrogen without enough progesterone (a hormone that balances oestrogen). Common triggers include: Symptoms
Vulval Intra-epithelial Neoplasia (VIN) refers to abnormal cell changes in the skin of the vulva (the external genital area, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening). These changes are not cancer, but in rare cases, they may develop into vulval cancer if left untreated. VIN is graded as: Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Options Self-Care Possible Complications Follow-Up
Cervical Intra-epithelial Neoplasia (CIN) refers to abnormal cell changes on the surface of the cervix (the entrance to the womb). These changes are not cancer, but if left untreated, some cases may develop into cervical cancer over many years. CIN is graded as: Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Options Recovery After Treatment Possible Risks/Complications Prevention Frequently Asked Questions Q. Can
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin condition that causes thin, white, patchy skin, often affecting the genital and anal areas. It can lead to itching, pain, and scarring if untreated. While it is not contagious or cancerous, early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing symptoms and preventing complications. Common Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus spread through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. Certain HPV strains can cause: Why Get Vaccinated as an Adult? Is the HPV Vaccine Safe? What to Expect Important Considerations Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can I get the vaccine if I already have HPV?A: Yes! It prevents new infections but
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It is most often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria (e.g., Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea) and can lead to serious complications like infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or ectopic pregnancy if untreated. Common Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Options Possible Complications Frequently
Vulvodynia is chronic pain or discomfort in the vulva (the external female genital area) that lasts for at least 3 months, with no clear cause (e.g., infection, injury, or skin disorder). It is a real and treatable condition that affects daily life, intimacy, and emotional well-being. Common Symptoms Possible Causes Diagnosis Treatment Options Medical Treatments Frequently Asked Questions Q:
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina that can cause itching, discharge, and discomfort. It is often due to infections (like yeast or bacteria) or irritants. While common and treatable, proper diagnosis ensures the right treatment. Common Symptoms Types & Causes Diagnosis Treatment Options Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is vaginitis contagious?A: Only if caused by an STI (e.g.,
Cervicitis is inflammation of the cervix (the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina). It is often caused by infections, irritants, or allergies. While common and treatable, untreated cervicitis can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or fertility issues. Common Symptoms Causes Diagnosis Treatment Options Prevention Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is cervicitis
