The ovaries are female glands that, in addition to producing eggs, generate hormones that give the woman’s body its characteristics. This is how the size of the breasts and the body shape of women depend on the estrogens and progesterone that are produced in them. In addition, they also help in the menstrual cycle, fertilization and the amount of hair that covers the woman’s skin.
Therefore, the functions of the ovaries are very important, mainly for reproduction. But, on many occasions these small organs; placed on each side of the uterus; they are susceptible to high-risk diseases. For example; ovarian cancer, which force the gynecologist to suggest impact surgical procedures; like hysterectomy; to remove the entire damaged area and avoid possible complications.
Especially because the origin of the disease is attributed to hormonal imbalance, which can be present during all stages of a woman’s life. Therefore, we can talk about the main gynecological pathologies that it faces:
- In fact, polycystic ovary syndrome, is one of the main diseases of the ovaries, which shows signs in the first menstruation of women. Leading to irregular periods, due to the increase in male hormones and proliferation of follicles, which prevent the correct release of the egg. Hence, genetics and obesity can play a role, leading to infertility and endometrial cancer.1
- in addition, ovarian torsion; where the ovary rotates interrupting the flow of blood; it occurs with greater prevalence in the reproductive age. However, when it occurs after menopause it is considered a sign of the existence of a tumor. For this reason, this disease requires a surgical intervention of correction.2
- Also, it is possible that a premature ovarian failure, causing the ovaries to stop producing eggs earlier than expected. This is how many women before the age of 40 can present menstrual bleeding, without having the opportunity to conceive, because the functions of their ovaries are poor. However, they may be suitable for some fertility treatments.3
Increasing the risks
- In the same way, the ovarian cancer, like a silent enemy. Mainly of women, who have not had children or had them in late periods. Above all, because visible signs are seldom present at an early stage, making early diagnosis difficult. Therefore, women with a family history of cancer, unintended weight loss, and vaginal bleeding should seek medical advice.4
Especially because depending on the stage the cancer is in, treatment is targeted. Hence, options in a localized way include surgery and radiofrequency. At the same time, that systemic therapy can be employed; according to the clinical picture and the needs of the patient; with chemotherapy or hormone therapy.
As we can see, diseases related to the ovaries involve serious risks for women. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt the habit of having periodic check-ups, moving away from sedentary lifestyle and eating healthy. Since, in this way, the risks of developing diseases can be reduced, giving life to the years.
References:
1.Torres-Rodríguez Karen Julieth, Torra-Baraja Óscar Leonardo. The genetics behind Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, today’s disease. UIS Medical [Internet]. 2017 Aug [cited 2021 June 15]; 30 (2): 9-10. Available from:
http://www.scielo.org.co/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0121-03192017000200009&lng=en.
2.Francisco Javier Pérez, Trinidad Sánchez, David Deblas. Abdominal pain in a young woman. Med. Gener. Famil, [internet] 2016 [consultado 15 junio 2021]; 5 (3): 110-112. Available in:
http://mgyf.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/revistas_rantes/v05n03_007.pdf.
- A Graff, S. Christin -Maitre. Premature ovarian failure. Elsevier. [internet] 2019 [consultado 15 junio 2021]; 55 (1): 1-10. Available in:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1283081X19417098.
Four.Gaona Estudillo Rubí. Ovarian cancer, the assault of the invisible murderer. Rev. Fac. Med. (Mex.) [revista en la Internet]. 2014 Feb [citado 2021 Jun 15]; 57 (1): 24-30. Available in:
http://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0026-17422014000100004&lng=es.