Women's Health Clinic Toronto, Ontario

POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal disorder that is multifactorial, with its signs and symptoms varying between patients. Common signs and symptoms include increases in androgen hormones (resulting in acne, facial hair growth, and male pattern baldness), irregular menstrual cycles, polycystic ovaries as seen on ultrasound, weight gain, insulin resistance and infertility.

IRREGULAR PERIODS

Normally, menses should occur approximately every 28 days in women (with a range of 21-35 days) and should last between 4-7 days. Bleeding is considered abnormal if it occurs outside of these parameters.

ACNE

Acne is the most common inflammatory skin disorder. It occurs when pores become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and colonized with P.acnes bacteria. Acne may be inflammatory or non-inflammatory in nature. Acne lesions commonly occur in areas where there is a higher concentration of sebaceous glands.

INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition which commonly causes bladder pain and increased frequency in urination. It can be diagnosed if symptoms have been present for more than six weeks and other potential causes (such as a urinary tract infection) have been ruled out.

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS (UTI’S)

Urinary tract infections are most commonly caused by e coli bacteria. These bacteria typically enter the urinary tract through the urethral opening and travel up the urethra to infect the bladder. The bacteria will stick to the bladder wall and subsequently multiply.

YEAST INFECTIONS

The vagina contains a balance of beneficial bacteria and yeast. When yeast overgrows in the vagina, a yeast infection results. Yeast infections can result from the overuse of antibiotics, the use of oral contraceptives, and can be more common in certain patient populations.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)

Every single month many women experience PMS, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The etiology of PMS is uncertain, however sensitivity to the cycling estrogen and progesterone in addition to an affect on neurotransmitters is thought to play a role.

MENSTRUAL CRAMPS

Menstrual pain is a very common problem amongst women. Pain is typically spasmodic in nature and is often strongest above the pubic bone but can radiate to the back or the inner thighs. It is not uncommon for women to have additional symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, low backache, or headache.

ENDOMETRIOSIS

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus is implanted in the pelvic cavity, often on the ovaries, in the fallopian tubes and along the pelvis.

MENOPAUSE

Menopause occurs when there has been a cessation in menses for at least 12 consecutive months. Perimenopause is the transition time prior to menopause. The average age of menopause is between 50-52 years old and the average age of perimenopause is 47.5 years old.