Definition of Gynecology:
The branch of physiology and medicine which deals with the functions and diseases specific to women and girls, especially those affecting the reproductive system is known as Gynaecology or Gynecology.
Medical Definition of Gynecologist:
A physician who specializes in treating diseases of the female reproductive organs and providing well-woman health care that focuses primarily on the reproductive organs.
Importance of Gynecological Health:
Every woman should see a gynecologist to promote good health. Starting from puberty, when the reproductive organs mature, women should be regularly evaluated by a gynecological specialist. Women should schedule an exam between the ages of 13 and 15 or when they become sexually active. Physicians can explain normal bodily functions and answer any related questions about menstruation that may arise. Doctors can advise older women about menopause and hormone replacement therapy. Keeping a close relationship with your gynecologist will be helpful over the years.
During an annual well woman exam, an OB/GYN will perform pelvic and breast exams. A pelvic exam allows inspection of the cervix, and a Pap smear allows the examination of a few cells microscopically for any potentially cancerous cells. Women should have a pelvic exam annually, whether or not they are having a Pap smear. The doctor can assess many disorders of the reproductive system through examination. He or she can also conduct tests with blood and tissue cultures.
Self-examination or a doctor's exam can also discover breast abnormalities early. From there, a mammogram (an X-ray technique) visualizes breast tissue for any possible cancerous changes. Digital imaging software used in computerized mammography can eliminate some errors in the reading. Recently, some disagreement has arisen about how often a mammogram should be performed. The American Cancer Society has recommended that by age 40 women should be screened every one to three years if the results are consistently negative. If there are any suspicious areas of concern, breast ultrasounds are the next step and then breast biopsies, if needed.
Overview of the Female Reproductive System:
Internal Organs of Female Reproductive System:
Ovary: One of a pair of female glands in which the eggs form and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone are made. These hormones play an important role in female traits, such as breast development, body shape, and body hair. They are also involved in the menstrual cycle, fertility, and pregnancy. There is one ovary on each side of the uterus.
Fallopian Tube: One of two long, slender tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs pass from the ovaries, through the fallopian tubes, to the uterus. In the female reproductive tract, there is one ovary and one fallopian tube on each side of the uterus
Uterus: The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. ... Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.
Vagina: The muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the outside of the body. It is usually 6 to 7 inches in length, and its walls are lined with mucous membrane. It includes two vaultlike structures: the anterior (front) vaginal fornix and the posterior (rear) vaginal fornix. The cervix protrudes slightly into the vagina, and through a tiny hole in the cervix (the os), sperm make their way toward the internal reproductive organs. The vagina also includes numerous tiny glands that make vaginal secretions.
Cervix: The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus (womb). The uterus, a hollow, pear-shaped organ, is located in a woman's lower abdomen, between the bladder and the rectum. The cervix forms a canal that opens into the vagina, which leads to the outside of the body.
Broad Ligament: The layer of tissue that connects the sides of the uterus to the walls and floor of the pelvis. The broad ligament covers the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It also includes nerves and blood vessels to these organs.
Endometrium: The inner layer of the uterus.
Myometrium: The muscular outer layer of the uterus.
Internal Os & External Os: The opening into the uterus is called the internal os, and the opening into the vagina is called the external os.
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