Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria normally found in the vagina. It often causes a grey-coloured discharge. Although more common in sexually active women, bacterial vaginosis is not passed on through sexual activity.

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure involving the insertion of implants behind the breast tissue to change the shape or size of the breasts. This may be done to improve appearance and symmetry of the breasts, or to enhance self-confidence and self-image.

Breast cancer is the name for cancers that develop in breast tissue. Abnormal cells can form a tumour (lump) in the breast and spread throughout the body. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women, but can also develop in men.

Cervical cancer is the name for cancers that form in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus where it meets the vagina. Most cases arise from human papillomavirus infection. Abnormal cells can form a tumour and spread to other parts of the body.

Cervical dysplasia is when abnormal changes occur in the cells of a woman’s cervix. This condition can, if left untreated, develop into cervical cancer. There are numerous ways to treat this condition and to reduce the risk of developing it.

Chlamydia is a common sexually-transmitted infection (STI). Most people with chlamydia will not have symptoms, but others may experience pain when urinating, during intercourse, or have an abnormal discharge. If sexually active, it is important to get regular check-ups so it can be detected early...

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when an embryo begins to develop at a site other than within the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube. Unfortunately, it results in the loss of the pregnancy. If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can cause dangerous complications, such as haemorrhage into the abdomen.

Endometriosis is a condition that affects many women. It can cause severe gripping pain in the lower abdomen and back, especially during a woman’s period. It is caused by cells that normally line the womb growing elsewhere, such as on the ovaries, in the pelvis or abdomen. However, there are nume...

Female pattern hair loss affects nearly all women to some degree. It is usually experienced as a thinning around the line where the hair parts, occurring at the onset of menopause. As female pattern hair loss is largely caused by genetic and hormonal factors, it is generally considered to be a no...

Fertility is the ability to have a baby. This requires sperm from a man to fertilise an egg from a woman. Follow the numerous stages in this journey of the sperm to reach the egg.

Genital herpes is a common sexually-transmitted infection that is caused by a virus. Some people with the condition will not experience any symptoms, while others will develop small blisters or ulcers on or around their genitals. Following some advice can help reduce symptoms and help prevent spr...

Genital warts are a common sexually-transmitted infection that cause small, painless lumps to grow near the genitals. They are contagious through skin contact. Genital warts can be removed with medication, or by simple procedures performed by a doctor.

Gonorrhoea is a common sexually-transmitted infection. It may not have any symptoms, but if it’s untreated, it can lead to complications. If sexually active, it is important to get regular check-ups so it can be detected early and treated.

Libido refers to sexual desire, or the drive to have sexual activity. It is also commonly called the sex drive. A low libido means that you have a low interest in sex and this can affect both men and women. Everybody's interest level in sex is different and there is no 'normal' level.

Menopause occurs when a woman has her last menstrual period. This commonly occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years and is a result of the ovaries stopping the release of eggs in preparation for pregnancy.

Miscarriage is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before it has reached 20 weeks’ gestation. If a loss of pregnancy occurs after 20 weeks, it is known as a stillbirth. Miscarriages often occur without any obvious cause. When a pregnancy ends prematurely, it can be very distressing; however, couns...

A molar pregnancy occurs when the pregnancy develops abnormally, forming a mass of tissue inside the uterus. It is sometimes also known as a hydatidiform mole. There is usually a period of monitoring hormone levels following a molar pregnancy.

Ovarian cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form tumours in the ovaries and spread to other parts of the body.

Pelvic floor exercises are muscle-contracting movements that strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. In females pelvic floor muscles support the uterus. They also support and control bladder and bowel function in men and women. Pelvic floor exercises help improve urinary and bowel incontinence.

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and ...

A period occurs as part of a woman’s normal menstrual cycle, first starting between the ages of eight and 16 and continuing until menopause. An average menstrual cycle is 28 days. During a period, the uterus sheds its inner lining and this passes out through the vagina, with bleeding usually last...

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a long-term condition in women causing an imbalance in sex hormones. Symptoms include weight gain, acne, and increase in facial or body hair, which can all affect self-esteem. There are a range of treatments available to help manage the condition.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder occurs when a woman experiences severe psychological and physical symptoms before menstruation. The symptoms experienced are more severe than those of premenstrual syndrome.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) describes a range of physical and psychological symptoms that can occur in the two weeks before a woman has her period (also known as menstruation).While PMS symptoms are generally relatively mild and manageable, for some women they can be severe, to the point where th...

Syphilis is a sexually-transmitted infection. It is common for infected individuals to not know they have it, therefore, it is important to get regular checks. It can have serious complications if not treated. Fortunately, treatment is straightforward with antibiotics.

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control that results in unintended urine leakage. This can occur when people cough, sneeze or lift something heavy. It is most common among women who have given birth or who have experienced menopause, both of which can cause weakness in the pelvic floo...

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract. This can cause problems with urination including increased frequency and burning sensations. While the condition can be frustrating, symptoms will typically subside with proper treatment.

It is normal for women to have some vaginal discharge. The appearance and amount of discharge will vary, according to factors such as ovulation, pregnancy or starting oral contraceptive medication. There are infections such as thrush, chlamydia and gonorrhoea that can also cause changes to vagina...

Vaginal itching is experienced by many women and may be accompanied by vaginal discharge. There are many causes for vaginal itching. Generally, it is easily treated.