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Conditions or Health Problems

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the most common reasons women see their doctors. It can occur at any age and has many causes. Some are easily treated, while others are more serious. Finding the cause is the first step in treatment.

The Normal Menstrual Cycle

Bowel Control Problems

Bowel control problems affect at least 1 million people in the United States. Loss of normal control of the bowels is called fecal incontinence. This leads to leakage of solid or liquid stool (feces) or gas.

Diabetes and Women

About 15 million Americans have diabetes (also called diabetes mellitus). It is a condition that causes high levels of glucose in the blood. Health problems can arise if the glucose level becomes too high or is not well controlled. Only about half of the people with diabetes have been tested and given a diagnosis.

Disorders of the Vulva

Certain health problems can affect the vulva (the outer part of the female genital area). Some problems are minor. Others are more serious. Finding and treating changes early can help prevent more serious problems. You can help find problems by doing a vulvar self-exam.
The earlier you seek treatment, the better your chances of treating the problem with success.

Endometrial Hyperplasia

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition that occurs when the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows too much. It is a benign (not cancer) condition. In some cases, however, it can lead to cancer of the uterus. Some women are at higher risk of hyperplasia.

Who Is at Risk?

Fibrocystic Breast Changes

Women with fibrocystic breast changes have lumpy, tender breasts. These changes most often occur near the time of a woman's period. Fibrocystic breast changes are not a disease and they do not increase your risk of cancer. However, if you feel a lump, it should be checked.

Your Breasts

Headaches

Everyone has had a headache at some time or another. Most headaches are minor and can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, an estimated 45 million Americans suffer from chronic headaches-headaches serious enough to interfere with daily life.

Types of Headaches

Tension

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure (or hypertension) has long been called a "silent killer" because it often causes no symptoms. After age 50, high blood pressure is more common in women than men. Untreated, high blood pressure can lead to other serious health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

HIV and Women

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Many people think AIDS is a disease that affects only homosexual (gay) men and intravenous (IV) drug users. This is not true. The rate of HIV infection is increasing most rapidly among heterosexual women. HIV infection is the fifth leading cause of death among women 19–39 years of age.

Menopausal Bleeding

Around menopause, a woman's menstrual cycles may become less regular. After menopause, you should not have any bleeding. Any bleeding after menopause should be checked by a doctor. Bleeding after menopause may be a sign of cancer.

If you have any bleeding after menopause, see your doctor. The earlier the cause of bleeding is found, the better it can be treated.