Postmenopausal bleeding is defined as any vaginal bleeding that occurs 12 months or more after your last menstrual period. This includes not just heavy, period-like flow, but also any spotting, pink or brown discharge, or blood-stained vaginal discharge. It is not a condition, but rather a warning sign from your body that the lining of your womb (endometrium) may […]
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Endometriosis is a benign (non-cancerous), chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of your uterus (the endometrium) grows in other parts of your body, usually within the pelvis. This misplaced tissue, called “implants” or “lesions,” responds to your body’s monthly hormonal cycle in the same way as the uterine lining: it grows, breaks down
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For too long, endometriosis has hidden in silence, and its diagnosis has involved invasive surgery. The Ziwig Endotest is a breakthrough in women’s health: a non-invasive, pain-free saliva test that can detect endometriosis with high accuracy. If you are suffering from chronic pelvic pain, debilitating periods, fatigue, or digestive struggles, this test offers a new
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Coccydynia is the medical term for persistent pain in and around your coccyx (tailbone). The coccyx is the small, triangular bone at the very bottom of your spine. This pain is often worse when sitting, especially on hard surfaces, and when moving from sitting to standing. Coccydynia is a localised form of chronic pelvic pain which is more common
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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe, clinically diagnosable form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is a hormone-based mood disorder where you experience intense emotional and physical symptoms in the week or two before your period (the luteal phase) that significantly interfere with your daily life, work, and relationships. PMDDis a recognized medical condition, not a personal weakness or
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Hyperprolactinaemia is a condition where you have a higher-than-normal level of a hormone called prolactin in your blood. Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland in your brain, and its main job is to stimulate breast milk production after childbirth. When levels are too high at other times, it can disrupt the normal function of your ovaries,
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Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that affects areas of the body where skin rubs together and where there are apocrine sweat glands (which are associated with hair follicles). It is not an infection, it is not contagious, and it is not caused by poor hygiene.In HS, hair follicles become blocked and inflamed, leading to painful, recurrent lumps,
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Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is defined as non-cyclic pain in your pelvic region (below your belly button) that lasts for six months or more. It is a complex condition, not a disease itself, but a symptom that can arise from many different sources gynaecological, urological, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, or nervous system related. CPP can significantly impact your
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A molar pregnancy, also known as Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), is a rare complication of pregnancy where abnormal tissue grows inside the womb (uterus) instead of a healthy baby. In a normal pregnancy, cells called trophoblasts develop into the placenta. In a molar pregnancy, these cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably, forming a mass of fluid-filled sacs that look like
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) is a chronic medical condition caused by varicose veins in your pelvis. Similar to varicose veins in the legs, the valves in the pelvic veins become weak or damaged, allowing blood to pool backwards (reflux). This causes the veins to become enlarged, twisted, and painful. Think of it as “haemorrhoids of the pelvis.” It
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An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency in which a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus. The most common site (in over 95% of cases) is in a fallopian tube. As the pregnancy grows, it can cause the tube to rupture, leading to severe internal bleeding, which is life-threatening. A pregnancy cannot survive
Adenomyosis is a benign (non-cancerous) condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium). Each month, this trapped tissue responds to hormonal cycles, causing the muscle wall to swell and bleed internally. This leads to an enlarged, tender, and boggy uterus. While it
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It is a “syndrome,” meaning it is a collection of symptoms rather than a single disease. The three main features are: PCOS is a lifelong condition, but its symptoms can be effectively managed. It is also a leading cause
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A urethral caruncle is a small, benign (non-cancerous) growth that appears on the urethral meatus, which is the outer opening of the urethra where urine exits the body. It is a common condition, especially after menopause, and is caused by the thinning of tissue around the urethra due to lower oestrogen levels. Urethral caruncle often
The vaginal microbiome is the community of microorganisms, including bacteria and yeast, that live in the vagina. A healthy microbiome is predominantly made up of beneficial bacteria called Lactobacilli. These bacteria produce lactic acid, which keeps the vagina slightly acidic, protecting it from infections and maintaining overall health. Why does it matter? A balanced vaginal microbiome is your
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The WID-easy test is a breakthrough in women’s healthcare. It is a simple, rapid, and highly accurate swab test designed to detect endometrial (womb) cancer in perimenopausal and post-menopausal women, including some cancer types that can be missed by traditional ultrasound scans. Developed by research collaborators at University College London and The Eve Appeal, this less
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The study of DNA, its genes and how these express and interact to influence growth and changes in our bodies represents genomics. The changes in DNA are passed through generations which may sometimes lead into inheritable diseases running in families. However, the subject of how our environment influences our genes including for example the diet
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Mounjaro is a weekly injection medication (“GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist”). It helps manage blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, but it’s also very effective for weight loss in people with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with weight-related health problems. Mounjaro is a tool that can help achieve this weight loss alongside diet and exercise
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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 Q: Is breast cancer hereditary? A: Most cases are not,
Women face a 1 in 5 lifetime risk of developing 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 →
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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:
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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
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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
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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 Q. How
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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
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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. It is often called a “silent disease” because bone loss occurs without symptoms until a fracture happens and 1 in 3 women over 50
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
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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 a 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:
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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
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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
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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
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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
Urogenital prolapse occurs when pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum, or small bowel) slip from their normal position and bulge into the vagina due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. It’s not life-threatening but can affect daily life and comfort. Think of your pelvic floor as a supportive hammock—when it weakens, organs may “sag.” Common Symptoms Causes
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The Harmony Test is a non-invasive prenatal screening test (NIPT) that checks for certain chromosomal conditions in your baby using a simple blood draw. It is typically offered after 10 weeks of pregnancy and is not diagnostic—it estimates the likelihood of a condition but does not confirm it. What does It screen for? How does It work? Accuracy Who should consider the
Egg freezing (oocyte cryopreservation) is a process where a woman’s eggs are extracted from her ovaries, frozen, and stored for future use. This allows individuals to preserve their fertility for: Key steps in the process Success rates Risks & Considerations Who should consider egg freezing? Frequently Asked Questions Q: How long can eggs be stored?A:
Early menopause (premature ovarian insufficiency or POI) occurs when the ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40, leading to irregular or absent periods and reduced fertility. It affects 1 in 100 women under 40 years of age, and 1 in 1,000 under 30 years of age. Common Symptoms Possible causes Diagnosis Health risks Early menopause increases
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is when periods are abnormally heavy or prolonged, interfering with daily life. It affects 1 in 5 women and can lead to fatigue, anaemia, or emotional distress. Common symptoms Possible causes Diagnosis: Treatment options Medical Treatments Surgical options Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is heavy bleeding normal?A: No—seek evaluation if you’re changing
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Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of the natural bacteria in the vagina. It occurs when harmful bacteria outnumber healthy Lactobacilli. BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it can increase the risk of STIs or complications if untreated. Common Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Options Prevention
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Vaginal thrush is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida. It occurs when the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina is disrupted. It is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and is easily treatable. Common symptoms Causes & risk factors Treatment options Antifungal Medications Self-care Prevention tips Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) are cramping pains in the lower abdomen before or during menstruation. They are common and affect many women, but severe pain may signal an underlying condition. There are two types: Common Symptoms Causes Primary Dysmenorrhea Secondary Dysmenorrhea Management Self-care Medical treatments Alternative therapies Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is it normal to have
Vaginal dryness occurs when the vaginal tissues lack moisture, leading to discomfort, itching, or pain. It’s common during menopause but can affect women of all ages due to hormonal changes, medications, or lifestyle factors. Common causes Symptoms Treatment options Lubricants Moisturizers Hormonal treatments Non-hormonal options Lifestyle adjustments Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is vaginal dryness normal?A: Yes! It’s
Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is discomfort during or after sexual intercourse. It’s a common issue affecting many women and can stem from physical, emotional, or hormonal causes. Common symptoms Possible causes Physical Causes Emotional/Psychological causes Diagnosis Treatment options Medical Treatments Psychological Support Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is painful sex normal?A: While common, it’s not something you should endure.
A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, most often affecting the bladder (cystitis). Women are at higher risk due to a shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. If you have frequent infections (> 3/year), it is called recurrent UTI. Common symptoms Causes & risk factors Diagnosis Treatment Frequently
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An Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. These are highly effective as long-lasting contraception. There are two main types: How It works Insertion process Possible side effects Frequently Asked Questions Q: Does insertion hurt?A: Discomfort varies; painkillers can help. Many describe it as strong period cramps. Q:
