Gynaecological conditions are common health issues that affect many women at various stages of life. However, the lack of awareness and the stigma surrounding women’s health often leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
In Singapore, the availability of advanced healthcare and the gynaecological services offered by leading hospitals and clinics make it easier for women to manage their reproductive health. This article will explore 8 common gynaecological conditions that affect women in Singapore, including their symptoms, causes, and available treatments. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or are just looking to learn more, this guide will give you the information you need to understand these conditions and seek appropriate treatment.
8 Common Gynaecological Conditions in Singapore
1. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It occurs when a woman’s ovaries produce an abnormal amount of male hormones, leading to a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Treatment Options:
- Lifestyle changes: Diet and exercise to help manage weight and regulate periods
- Medications: Birth control pills, anti-androgen medications, and insulin-sensitizing drugs
- Fertility treatments: If pregnancy is desired, options like IUI or IVF may be considered
2. Endometriosis
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This can cause pain, especially during menstruation, and can affect fertility.
Symptoms:
- Chronic pelvic pain or lower back pain
- Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
- Pain during intercourse
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Treatment Options:
- Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, IUDs, or GnRH agonists
- Surgery: In severe cases, laparoscopy or hysterectomy may be necessary
3. Uterine Fibroids
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids are benign tumours made of muscle and fibrous tissue that develop in the walls of the uterus. They are often asymptomatic but can cause problems if they grow large.
Symptoms:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Lower back pain
Treatment Options:
- Medication: Hormonal treatments to shrink the fibroids
- Surgical options: Myomectomy (fibroid removal) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus)
- Non-invasive procedures: Uterine artery embolization (UAE) or MRI-guided focused ultrasound
4. Ovarian Cysts
What are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. Most are harmless and resolve on their own, but some can cause complications.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Pain during intercourse
- Irregular periods
Treatment Options:
- Observation: Many cysts resolve without treatment
- Medications: Birth control pills to regulate the menstrual cycle
- Surgery: If a cyst is large, persistent, or causing severe symptoms, surgical removal may be necessary
5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
What is PID?
PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, usually caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Symptoms:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Abnormal vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odour
- Painful urination or intercourse
- Fever or chills
Treatment Options:
- Antibiotics: Oral or intravenous antibiotics to treat the infection
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue
6. Menstrual Disorders (Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea, Menorrhagia)
What are Menstrual Disorders?
Menstrual disorders refer to problems with the regularity, duration, or severity of a woman’s menstrual cycle.
- Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation
- Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstruation
- Menorrhagia: Excessively heavy periods
Treatment Options:
- Hormonal treatments: Birth control pills or hormonal IUDs to regulate periods
- Pain relief: NSAIDs or prescription pain medication
- Surgical options: D&C (dilation and curettage) for severe cases of abnormal bleeding
7. Vaginal Infections (Candida, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis)
What are Vaginal Infections?
Vaginal infections, such as yeast infections (candida), bacterial vaginosis, and trichomoniasis, can disrupt the balance of bacteria or yeast in the vagina.
Symptoms:
- Itching or irritation in the vaginal area
- Abnormal discharge with a strong odor
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse
- Painful urination
Treatment Options:
- Antifungal medications: For yeast infections (candida)
- Antibiotics: For bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis
- Topical treatments: Creams or suppositories for localized infections
8. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
What are UTIs?
UTIs are common infections in the urinary tract that affect the bladder, kidneys, and urethra.
Symptoms:
- A burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate, even when the bladder is empty
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal pain
Treatment Options:
- Antibiotics: To treat the bacterial infection
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to flush out bacteria
- Prevention: Probiotics or dietary changes to maintain a healthy urinary system
Final Thoughts
Understanding common gynaecological conditions and their symptoms is essential for women to take proactive steps toward better health. Whether seeking early diagnosis or exploring available treatments, women in Singapore have access to world-class medical care.
If you experience any of the symptoms discussed, it’s important to consult a gynaecologist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. The earlier you seek help, the better the chances of managing these conditions effectively.
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Sources:
Anna Haotanto is the Founder of Zora Health and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Anna’s personal experiences with egg-freezing, PCOS, perimenopause and the challenges of fertility have fueled her mission to provide high-quality information, financing, and support to help women and couples navigate their fertility journeys with confidence. She is also recognised for her achievements in finance, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, and has been featured in various media outlets. You can also follow her on Linkedin or Instagram.
