Conditions

Adenomyosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows into the muscle of the womb. This can cause heavy periods, painful cramps, pelvic pain and bloating. Although the condition can affect daily life, effective treatments are available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Amenorrhoea means the absence of menstrual periods. This may happen when periods never start during adolescence, or when periods stop for several months after previously being regular. While missing periods can sometimes be normal, they may also indicate an underlying hormonal or reproductive health condition.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus. This tissue can cause inflammation, scarring, adhesions, cysts and pain, particularly during periods. Endometriosis most commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis, but it can sometimes involve other organs such as the bowel or bladder.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made from muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size. Some fibroids cause no symptoms, while others may lead to heavy periods, pelvic pressure, pain or fertility difficulties.

Irregular periods and abnormal uterine bleeding occur when your menstrual cycle changes from its usual pattern. This may include periods that are too frequent, too far apart, unusually heavy, very light, or bleeding that occurs between periods. While occasional changes can be normal, persistent irregular bleeding should be assessed.

Menopause is a natural stage of life that occurs when periods stop permanently due to a decline in hormone production by the ovaries. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period and most commonly occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.

Menopause occurs in three stages:

• Perimenopause – the years leading up to menopause when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin

• Menopause – defined as 12 months after the final menstrual period

• Postmenopause – the years after menopause when hormone levels stabilise, although some symptoms may continue

Some women experience early menopause (before age 45) or premature menopause (before age 40), which may require specialist assessment.

Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, refer to menstrual bleeding that is heavier or lasts longer than usual. The condition is often defined by the impact it has on daily life, including fatigue, disruption to work or social activities, and the need for frequent sanitary protection.

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops within or on the surface of an ovary. Tubal cysts are similar fluid-filled sacs that form in or near the fallopian tubes. Most ovarian and tubal cysts are benign and harmless, although some may grow larger, cause symptoms or require treatment to prevent complications.

An overactive bladder is a condition that causes a sudden and difficult-to-control urge to urinate, often accompanied by increased urinary frequency.

Pelvic adhesions are bands of internal scar tissue that form between organs in the pelvis. They can cause tissues and organs to stick together abnormally, sometimes leading to pelvic pain, fertility problems or changes in bowel, bladder or menstrual function.

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the pelvic floor muscles become weakened or do not work in a coordinated way. This can affect bladder, bowel and pelvic support function.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female reproductive organs, including the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The infection usually starts in the vagina or cervix before spreading into the pelvis. Prompt treatment is important because untreated PID can lead to long-term complications, including fertility problems.

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs descend due to weakened support structures within the pelvis. This can involve the uterus, bladder or rectum and may cause a sensation of heaviness, pressure or a vaginal bulge.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries function. It can affect menstrual cycles, hormone levels, fertility and metabolic health. Women with PCOS may have irregular periods, higher levels of androgens (male hormones) and multiple small follicles visible on the ovaries during ultrasound scans.

Postmenopausal bleeding refers to any vaginal bleeding that occurs 12 months or more after a woman's last natural menstrual period. This may include spotting, pink/brown/watery discharge, bleeding after sex, or bleeding similar to a menstrual period. Any bleeding after menopause is considered abnormal and should be assessed by a specialist.

Premature menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and normal levels of reproductive hormones before the age of 40. A related condition, known as Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), occurs when ovarian function becomes reduced or intermittent, meaning periods may continue irregularly and occasional ovulation can still occur. Both conditions lead to low oestrogen levels and can affect fertility, symptoms and long-term health.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a group of physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms that occur in the days before a period and usually improve once menstruation begins. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe form of PMS that can have a significant impact on mood, relationships, work and daily life.

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when urinary infections happen repeatedly. Identifying the underlying cause is important to help prevent future infections and reduce symptoms.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites and can be transmitted through vaginal, oral or anal sex, as well as through skin-to-skin contact or infected bodily fluids. Some STIs can be cured with treatment, while others require ongoing management.

Subfertility describes a reduced ability to conceive despite regular unprotected intercourse. Pregnancy may still occur naturally, but it may take longer than expected or require medical support. Subfertility can affect both women and men, and identifying any underlying causes can help improve the chances of conception.

Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine due to loss of bladder control. It may occur occasionally or more frequently and can have a significant impact on daily life, confidence and wellbeing.

A uterine septum (septate uterus) is a congenital condition where a band of tissue divides the inside of the uterus partially or completely. It develops before birth when the uterus does not form normally during fetal development. Many women are unaware they have a uterine septum until they experience fertility difficulties, recurrent miscarriage or pregnancy complications.

Uterine and cervical polyps are small growths that develop from the lining of the uterus (womb) or cervix. They are usually soft, benign (non-cancerous) growths and may occur as a single polyp or in clusters. While many polyps cause no symptoms, some can lead to abnormal bleeding, fertility difficulties or other gynaecological symptoms.

Vaginal and vulval lumps, lesions and cysts are growths or changes that develop in or around the vaginal opening, vulva or vaginal walls. Most are benign (non-cancerous) and may include cysts, skin tags or normal anatomical variations. However, any new or persistent lump should be assessed to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether treatment is needed.