Women's Health Promotion and STIs

Women's Health Promotion and Issues

• Health promotion empowers individuals to manage their health proactively.
• Promotion begins by identifying population risks and providing education for risk reduction.
• Leading causes of death in adolescents are unintentional injuries, suicide, and homicide.
• Heart disease and cancer are leading causes of death in women, accounting for nearly 50%.
• Heart attack symptoms in women can be vague (nausea, vomiting, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, palpitations).

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

• STIs spread through various sexual contacts, even without symptoms.
• Barrier methods (condoms, gloves, etc.) protect against some STIs, but not all.
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea are highly prevalent among adolescent females, leading to fertility problems (ectopic pregnancy, infertility).
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is treated with metronidazole vaginal gel (antibiotic).
• Vaginal yeast infections can arise from antibiotic use, treated with antifungal medications (e.g., Miconazole, fluconazole).
• Consistent use of barrier methods (even with other contraception) and STI testing/screening are essential.
• STI transmission is increasing in older adults due to reduced barrier device use.
• Education emphasizes STI prevention in all relationships.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

• HPV is the most common viral STI in the U.S. (over 100 strains).
• Low-risk HPV strains cause warts; high-risk strains contribute to cellular dysplasia and cancer.
• HPV is a major cause of cancers impacting the cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, anus, and oral cavity.
• Gardasil-9 protects against 90% of wart-causing and 70% of cancer-causing HPV strains.
• Vaccination is highly effective when administered before sexual activity (age 11-12).
• Two doses are recommended (6-12 months apart) if initiated before age 15; three doses are needed after age 15.

Cervical Cancer

• Treatment options for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) include conization, LEEP, cryotherapy.
• Hysterectomy, radiation, and chemotherapy may be necessary in advanced cases.
• PAP smears are recommended every 3 years for sexually active individuals over 21.
• Cervical dysplasia, CIN, can progress to cancer over 15 years; treatable with cell removal.

Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)

• Uterine fibroids are benign tumors impacting uterine tissue, causing pain, heavy/irregular menses, constipation, and infertility..
• Hormone levels influence tumor growth.
• Surgical removal or medication can improve fertility (temporarily).
• Hysterectomy may be necessary if fertility is not desired.

Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

• Postmenopausal bleeding warrants immediate evaluation, as it could indicate endometrial cancer, requiring biopsies, potential hysterectomy, and sometimes radiation/chemotherapy..
• Endometrial cancer screening frequently involves endometrial biopsies (via special catheters).
• Fistulas (abnormal openings between organs) require imaging and surgical interventions.
• Post-surgery care includes pain management, antibiotics, fluids, and monitoring for infection, etc.

Hysterectomy

• Hysterectomies, like other abdominal surgeries, carry risks of anesthesia complications, injuries to surrounding organs, hemorrhage, infection, and blood clots. Post op management follows standard procedures.

Breast Cancer

• Prevention strategies are not currently available. Regular screening and annual physical exams are recommended.
• Screening begins at age 40 (or earlier if family history), including mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies.
• Treatment encompasses surgery (lumpectomy, mastectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• PCOS is an endocrine disorder that can contribute to various health issues (diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, infertility, etc.).
• Symptoms include hirsutism, ovarian cysts, oily skin/acne, pelvic pain, and male-pattern baldness..
• Education on disease risks, medical management, and lifestyle modifications is crucial; Metformin can help with ovulation, and treatment options like laser hair removal exist.

Menopause

• Perimenopause (4-8 years) involves irregular menses and related symptoms.
• Menopause is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period. Average age of onset is 51.
• Symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction, mood swings) are manageable with medications, lifestyle changes, and support.
• Postmenopause marks the permanent cessation of menstruation.

LGBTQ Issues

• LGBTQ populations experience significant health disparities (increased risk factors, reduced access).
• Education and support are vital for equitable care.

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

• IPV encompasses physical/sexual abuse, stalking, and emotional aggression by a partner.
• IPV is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, low birth weight, and infant mortality.
• Health professionals should screen for IPV and watch for warning signs such as delayed or hidden injuries and/or evasive histories from patients.

This quiz covers important topics in women's health, focusing on health promotion strategies and the implications of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It highlights the risks associated with heart disease, cancer, and the prevalence of STIs among young women. Understanding these issues is crucial for empowering women to take charge of their health.