Women's Health Topics

Learn about abnormal uterine bleeding, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Our expert OB-GYN team provides advanced care for heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, helping women find relief and improve their health.

Benign ovarian tumors are slow-growing, non-cancerous masses that form on or inside a woman’s ovary. They are often discovered during routine pelvic exams since symptoms are rare. Treatment ranges from watchful waiting to surgical removal, with fertility typically preserved after care.

Birth control, or contraception, includes a wide range of methods to prevent pregnancy and support reproductive health. Options include hormonal methods like pills, patches, rings, shots, and implants; non-hormonal choices such as condoms, diaphragms, and copper IUDs; emergency contraception; natural family planning; and permanent solutions like tubal ligation. Each method varies in effectiveness, convenience, and side effects. Some also help regulate menstrual cycles or treat conditions like acne and cramps.

Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of precancerous cells on the cervix, often caused by HPV. It has no symptoms and is usually detected through Pap smears. Mild cases may resolve on their own, while moderate to severe cases require treatments like LEEP, cryotherapy, or laser therapy. Regular screening and HPV vaccination are key to prevention.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and sometimes infertility. Symptoms include pelvic pain, heavy periods, and pain during sex, though some women have no symptoms. Treatment options range from pain relief and hormonal therapy to surgery, depending on severity and fertility goals.

Learn about GTD, its types, symptoms, and treatment options. Discover how CU Anschutz provides expert care and support for this rare pregnancy-related condition.

Women’s health and wellness focuses on preventive care and healthy habits to improve quality of life. Key steps include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, protecting skin from sun damage, and scheduling routine gynecologic exams.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., affecting millions each year. While most cases resolve on their own, certain strains can lead to cervical and other cancers. Learn about HPV symptoms, prevention, screening, and the importance of vaccination to protect your health.

HSDD is a condition where women experience a persistent lack of sexual desire for at least six months, causing significant distress. Symptoms include reduced sexual thoughts, decreased responsiveness, and avoidance of sexual activity. Risk factors range from medical conditions and medications to psychological and relationship issues. Treatment options include sex therapy, counseling, and medications.

Müllerian anomalies are congenital malformations of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, or vagina caused by abnormal development of the Mullerian ducts. While many people are asymptomatic, these anomalies can lead to pelvic pain, menstrual obstruction, infertility, and pregnancy complications. Common types include bicornuate uterus, septate uterus, uterus didelphys, and vaginal agenesis. Diagnosis typically involves imaging such as ultrasound or MRI, and treatment may include surgical correction or nonsurgical options like vaginal dilation.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on or inside the ovaries. Most resolve naturally, but some cause symptoms like pelvic pain or abdominal pressure. Types include functional cysts, dermoid cysts, and endometriomas. Treatment ranges from monitoring to medication or surgery, depending on size, persistence, and symptoms. Seek urgent care for sudden severe pain or pain with fever and vomiting.

Pain during sex (dyspareunia) can occur during penetration, intercourse, or afterward, and may stem from physical or emotional factors. Common symptoms include sharp entry pain, deep discomfort, burning, or muscle spasms. Causes range from insufficient lubrication, infections, and pelvic conditions to stress or past trauma. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) affect many women and can range from mild cramps to severe pain that disrupts daily life. Primary dysmenorrhea often starts with a woman’s first period, while secondary dysmenorrhea is linked to conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or adenomyosis. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal birth control, and in some cases, surgery.

Pelvic pain is discomfort in the lower abdomen that can be acute or chronic. Causes include gynecologic conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, urinary or digestive issues, and sometimes stress or nerve pain. Symptoms range from mild pressure to severe, constant pain. Treatment often combines medication, physical therapy, and counseling. Seek immediate care for sudden, severe pelvic pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting millions of women. It can cause irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, and insulin resistance. While there’s no cure, symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and cosmetic treatments. Early diagnosis and ongoing care help reduce long-term risks like diabetes and heart disease.

UTIs are common infections in the urinary tract, often causing pain, burning during urination, and frequent urges to urinate. Most UTIs are easily treated with antibiotics, but severe cases can lead to kidney infections. Prevention tips include proper hygiene, hydration, and urinating before and after sex. Seek immediate care for fever, chills, or back pain, as these may signal a serious infection.

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that affect up to half of women by age 50. Symptoms can include heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure, though some women have no symptoms. Treatment ranges from monitoring and medication to surgical options like myomectomy or hysterectomy, depending on severity and fertility goals.