In collaboration with the non-profit organization Loono , we asked gynecologist MUDr. Veronika Frisová about the basics of a gynecological examination; what you need to prepare, how the examination is performed, what is important to follow in terms of intimate hygiene, and how a gynecologist can determine whether we have a hormonal imbalance.
MUDr. Veronika Frisová, Ph.D. is a doctor in the field of gynecology and obstetrics who, in addition to regular gynecological outpatient care, specializes primarily in the care of women of reproductive age. In the Czech Republic, she is one of the most recognized specialists in prenatal diagnosis of fetal defects during pregnancy, and is the only one in the Czech Republic to hold a " Diploma in fetal medicine" , which worldwide brings together around 250 experts trained in top-notch care related to the diagnosis of fetal defects and the possibilities of their solution. In addition to caring for pregnant women, MUDr. Veronika Frisová, Ph.D. has recently also focused on the care of women who have problems conceiving a baby. She performs consultations and tests that allow to reveal the cause of infertility, thus helping the woman to achieve the desired result. Thanks to her knowledge of ultrasound diagnostics and experience with the ÚMPD Podolí and many years of experience from her practice, this doctor also provides regular gynecological care at a high level.
In addition to her clinical work, the doctor regularly trains doctors in Czech and foreign courses, where she is invited as one of the main lecturers. In addition, she teaches and examines medical students at the Faculty of Medicine of Palacký University in Olomouc. She also contributes to a number of foreign and domestic publications.
What gynecological preventive examinations should women undergo regularly?
If they are healthy and have no problems, they should have a preventive examination once a year , which consists of colposcopy (visual assessment of the cervix in a colposcope), cytology (smear of several cells on a slide) and palpation of the uterus and ovary. This examination is performed on a gynecological chair through the vagina. It is certainly advisable to also perform a vaginal ultrasound examination of the uterus, ovary and pelvic area, which is more accurate than palpation and de facto replaces it. At the age of 35 and 45, in addition to these annual examinations, an examination for HPV infection of the cervix is newly recommended.
What do you recommend to women in terms of intimate hygiene?
They should not wear synthetic underwear with lycra, ideally they should wear panties made of pure cotton . For the hygiene of the external genitalia, they should use intimate hygiene products with an optimal pH. Sometimes it is necessary to try several products before they find the right one. For first aid in case of a tendency to "steam up" and itching, it is also a good idea to have vaginal douches at home, which, if used early, can often prevent major problems such as inflammation. In case of repeated inflammation of the vagina, it is advisable to use vaginal tablets with lactobacillus as a preventive measure.
What causes painful menstruation?
Painful menstruation can be caused by female diseases such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease (inflammation of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries), uterine fibroids, adhesions after surgery or inflammation or tumors. However, often there is no such cause and the pain is only related to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, most often an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone, increased contractility (contractions) of the uterine muscles during menstruation and thus its lack of blood flow, or even a woman's low pain threshold.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance?
It depends on what kind of hormonal imbalance it is. With an imbalance of sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone), these include irregular menstruation, weight gain, acne, increased body hair, dry skin, hot flashes and sweating, increased irritability, and sleep disorders.
In case of thyroid disorders, there are weight changes, chills or, conversely, a feeling of heat, fluctuations in appetite, fatigue or excessive activity, sleep disorders, fast or slow heartbeat, swelling, dry skin, and hair loss.
Which hormones are most often imbalanced in women?
It depends on the period of a woman's life, generally estrogen, progesterone and possibly testosterone are imbalanced (typically acne). Typically, most women experience changes during menopause and shortly (up to 10 years) before it. - estrogen and progesterone concentrations decrease and typical symptoms such as hot flashes, sweating, chills, mood swings, dry skin, weight gain begin. Thyroid disorders are common in both women and men.
How can women prepare for a gynecological examination if they suspect a hormonal imbalance?
They will describe their problems and the regularity or irregularity of their menstrual cycle (ideally, a review of at least three months).
How does a gynecologist detect hormonal imbalance?
Depending on the clinical symptoms and the course of the menstrual cycle, a blood test - a hormonal profile - can be performed, ideally with blood drawn on the 3rd-5th day of the cycle.
