A woman’s reproductive health typically covers all aspects of her reproductive system, including both mental and physical factors. So, if you have good reproductive health this will imply that you have a satisfying and safe sex life and have the ability to reproduce, as and when you choose. However, many women are putting their reproductive health at risk, and often without even realising it. Therefore, this post will introduce you to a number of hazards, which may be affecting your reproductive health.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Sexually transmitted diseases cover a vast array of infections and diseases, which can affect the genitals and reproductive system. These include HIV/AIDS, Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, hepatitis B, and many others. Many of these “diseases” often occur without a person even knowing about it and unfortunately if they are left untreated this can lead to all sorts of problems – one of the most common problems caused is pelvic inflammatory disease, which has been known to lead to blocking of the fallopian tubes, and scarring in this area. Another issue is toxic shock syndrome, which typically leads to vomiting, diarrhoea, shock and the infection caused has even been known to lead to death.
Smoking
There are studies which prove that smoking can affect the production of oestrogen in the female body. It is said that smoking can cause problems within the eggs, which can lead to miscarriage, the menopause occurring early and even genetic abnormalities in your newborns. We are also aware that smoking dramatically increases the likelihood of you contracting a pelvic infection and even cervical cancer.
Alcohol
There are numerous reproductive health problems which may occur from drinking an excessive amount of alcohol. This can lead to the endometrial lining to develop unnaturally and has been known to cause abnormal ovulation, which can create extreme difficulties if you are trying for a baby. Alcohol consumed in large quantities can also lead to amenorrhea, which means you will no longer be experiencing your menstrual period, even if you are of reproductive age.
Illicit Drugs
Most people are already aware that illegal drugs are extremely damaging to female reproductive health. Excessive use of any drugs, even some over-the-counter medications which are considered legal, may lead to infertility. We are aware that certain prescription drugs can cause problems with ovulation. However, illicit drugs may cause many more problems, which can include a lot less care taken with your reproductive health, such as excessive sexual partners, etc.
Environmental Pollutants
It is said that being exposed to certain pollutants within our environment actually poses the greatest risk to a woman’s reproductive health. An example of this is the exposure to mercury which has been known to cause certain neurological problems, as well as birth defects. We are also aware that exposure to lead can cause a reduced level of fertility. With the number of toxins in the environment, many of which we are exposed to on a daily basis without even knowing it, a wide variety of problems can be caused, including changes in your hormones, periods occurring at irregular intervals, and there is even proof that there is a higher rate of miscarriage associated with toxins and pollutants in the environment.
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- License: Creative Commons image source
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Laura Philip, the author of this post, is an avid blogger and works for Dr. Marie, well-known advisor for reproductive health. Laura is very fond of kids and organizes an arts and crafts camp every summer.
