Women Diseases

If you’re looking to make a baby, you might want to put out your cigarette before getting down to business: There’s now more evidence linking smoking with decreased fertility in men and women — and their offspring. A new study shows smoking by women during early pregnancy reduces the number …

Vaginal Infections “Vaginitis” is a medical term used to describe various conditions that cause infection or inflammation of the vagina. Vulvovaginitis refers to inflammation of both the vagina and vulva (the external female genitals). These conditions can result from a vaginal infection caused by organisms such as bacteria, yeast, or …

What Are the Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis? Up to 50% of the women who have bacterial vaginosis do not have any symptoms. Most women learn they have the infection during their annual gynecologic exam. But if symptoms appear, they can include: * White or discolored discharge. * Discharge that smells …

How Can I Prevent Vaginal Infections? There are certain things that you can do to decrease the chance of getting vaginal infections. If you suffer from yeast infections, it usually is helpful to avoid garments that hold in heat and moisture. The wearing of nylon panties, pantyhose without a cotton …

what Is Non-Infectious Vaginitis? Occasionally, a woman can have itching, burning, and even a vaginal discharge without having an infection. The most common cause is an allergic reaction or irritation from vaginal sprays, douches, or spermicidal products. The skin around the vagina also can be sensitive to perfumed soaps, detergents, …

What is a pelvic exam? A pelvic exam is a way for doctors to look for signs of illness in certain organs in a woman’s body. The word “pelvic” refers to the pelvis. The exam is used to look at a woman’s: * Vulva (external genital organs) * Uterus (the …

What Is Excessive or Unwanted Hair in Women? hirsutism: Excessive or unwanted hair that grows on a woman’s body and face is called hirsutism. All women have facial and body hair, but this hair is usually very fine and light in color. The main difference between normal hair—often called “peach …