Symptoms of Gynecologic Disorders in Women

Gynecologic disorders are abnormalities in the vagina, uterus, cervix, and other parts of the women's reproductive system. Although symptoms of these disorders vary according to the specific condition, there are general signs that may tell a woman she has gynecologic disorder. These symptoms are hirsutism, virilization, vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, vaginal pain, and vaginal itching.

Hirsutism. One symptom of gynecological disorder is hirsutism, which is the term used to describe too much hair growth among women. Abnormal and too much hair may grow in the face, chest, and legs. In the face, hair may grow in the upper lip, chin, and sides of the face. Hair may also grow around the nipple and in areas near the chest like the lower abdomen.
Virilization. Another symptom of gynecological disorder is virilization or the acquisition of masculine traits like deep voice and large muscle size by some women.
Vaginal Discharge. Another symptom is vaginal discharge. There are two kinds of vaginal discharge: the normal and abnormal. Although there is concern for abnormal vaginal discharge, we have to discuss first the normal vaginal discharge. Normal vaginal discharge is thin, clear, sometimes milky white, and has no odor, although its appearance changes as a woman grows older. This vaginal discharge is composed of mucus that is secreted by the cervix and is a result of estrogen activity. Abnormal vaginal discharge, which is a symptom of gynecologic disorder is heavy, thick, looks like a pus, and has color. It may be gray, green, yellow, or red. This discharge also has a foul smell and usually appears together with these conditions: burning, irritation, pain, and rashes in the skin.
Pelvic Pain. Pelvic pain may be caused by disorders of the uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, or the ovaries. Cysts, tumors, or polyps in these parts of the woman's reproductive system may be causing the pain. The pain usually centers in the lower abdomen, in between the hipbones. It may be described as irregular, sharp, or feels like menstrual cramps. It can go from mild to excruciating. While feeling the pain, a woman's pelvic area may become tender. Fever, nausea, or vomiting may onset along with the pain.
Vaginal Bleeding. Abnormal vaginal bleeding occurs before puberty, while the woman is pregnant, or after menopause. Vaginal bleeding as a symptom of gynecological disorder may be difficult to identify if it happens during reproductive years when it can be thought of as only menstrual secretion. However, vaginal bleeding can be ruled out as abnormal if it lasts long, becomes too heavy, and more frequent. Bleeding usually results in anemia and iron deficiency.
Vaginal Itching. It is normal for women to feel occasional vaginal itching that may be caused by several factors. Vaginal itching is, however, abnormal if it is continual, severe, recurring, and appears together with unusual discharge. It can be considered a symptom of gynecologic disorder if it is not caused by bacteria, chemicals, hormonal changes, and skin disorders.