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29
Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
About me
Attending physician specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, with a master's degree in gynecological oncology, published 5 articles in core journals.
Proficient in diseases
Specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, with a master's degree in gynecologic oncology. Proficient in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic malignancies.
Voices
Is cervical hypertrophy cervical cancer?
Cervical hypertrophy is not cervical cancer. Cervical hypertrophy is merely a change in the shape and size of the cervix, which becomes larger than normal, and its shape might be somewhat larger than a normal cervix. It is just a morphological change. Cervical cancer, on the other hand, is caused by an HPV virus infection. It is a type of tumor and is different from mere enlargement; one is cancer, and the other is just an increase in size. Therefore, it is recommended that patients who experience irregular vaginal bleeding after intercourse, as well as those who have irregular bleeding normally, should undergo screening for cervical cancer, including tests for HPV and TCT.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis means that the endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows in other locations. It can grow on the ovaries, inside the muscular layer of the uterus, or in the pelvic cavity. The ectopic endometrial tissue responds to changes in the body's estrogen levels during each menstrual cycle, creating symptoms similar to menstrual bleeding. If it grows on the ovaries, it may form a "chocolate cyst" on the ovaries that gradually enlarges with each menstrual cycle. If it grows within the muscular layer of the uterus, it can lead to adenomyosis, causing significant pain during menstruation. If it grows in the pelvic cavity, it can lead to the formation of pelvic lesions. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with such conditions seek prompt medical treatment.
Causes of cervical cancer
There are several causes of cervical cancer, such as having multiple sexual partners, premature birth, smoking, and early sexual activity, all of which could lead to cervical cancer. However, the main cause of cervical cancer is infection with HPV, the human papillomavirus. It has been scientifically proven that cervical cancer is caused by HPV infection. Therefore, this viral infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer. It is recommended that women of childbearing age undergo cervical cancer screening to check for any abnormalities in the cervix.
Can cervical cancer be cured?
Cervical cancer can be treated with options including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. For Stage 1A1 cervical cancer, a conization surgery can be chosen; for stages from 1A2 up to before 2B, a radical hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy can be selected; if it is Stage 2B, where the cancer has spread to the parametrium, it is recommended to first undergo chemotherapy as preoperative neoadjuvant therapy to reduce the tumor size before proceeding with surgery; if the cancer has progressed to Stage 3A1 and beyond, radiotherapy or chemotherapy is recommended. In summary, surgical treatment can be chosen for cervical cancer before Stage 2B; if it is Stage 2B or later, involving the parametrium or the lower third of the vagina, surgery is generally not an option, and the treatment usually involves radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Causes of infertility
Infertility may be due to factors involving either the male or the female. The main causes of female infertility include ovulatory disorders and fallopian tube factors. Ovulatory disorders may result from dysfunction in ovulation, such as changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, as well as ovarian diseases, with polycystic ovary syndrome being the most common condition that could lead to ovulatory issues. Fallopian tube factors include blockages or inefficiencies, which can also cause infertility in women. Uterine factors can also lead to infertility, including abnormalities of the uterus, inflammation of the endometrium, polyps in the endometrium, and intrauterine adhesions, all of which can affect the implantation of the fertilized egg and cause infertility. Abnormal cervical mucus secretion, cervical inflammation, and an unusual immune environment in cervical mucus that affects sperm passage can also lead to infertility. Male infertility factors primarily include disorders of sperm production and sperm delivery, which may manifest as abnormalities in semen, shown by the absence of sperm, weak sperm, or low sperm count, all contributing to infertility. Additionally, sexual dysfunctions such as premature ejaculation, anejaculation, and erectile dysfunction can also result in male infertility.
Is ovarian teratoma cancer?
Ovarian teratomas are divided into benign and malignant types. If the teratoma is malignant, then it is a type of cancer. If it is benign, it is not cancer; it is just a tumor. The malignancy of a tumor is not as high as that of cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to determine its pathological type. After removing the teratoma, it should be sent to the pathology department for examination to clearly determine whether it is benign or malignant. For benign teratomas, postoperative follow-up observation is sufficient. However, if the teratoma is malignant, the scope of the surgery should be conducted according to the protocols for ovarian cancer, and chemotherapy is required after surgery.
Can polycystic ovary syndrome be cured?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a reproductive dysfunction accompanied by abnormal glucose metabolism, constituting an endocrine disorder syndrome primarily characterized by persistent anovulation, high androgen levels, and insulin resistance. To address the three main features of PCOS, treatment options include controlling diet and increasing physical activity to enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce levels of insulin and testosterone, thereby restoring ovulation and fertility functions. Oral contraceptives, such as Diane-35, can be taken. Oral administration of Diane-35 acts on the endometrium to inhibit excessive proliferation and regulate the menstrual cycle. To reduce androgen levels, progestogens like cyproterone can be used to counteract high androgen levels. If there is high blood sugar, it is also necessary to improve insulin resistance, which can be treated with medications like metformin. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a physician, and self-medication should be avoided.)
How long does it take for cervical cancer to develop?
The causes of cervical cancer are now clear; it is caused by an infection with the HPV virus. Generally, this virus needs to be carried for more than two to three years before it can infect and develop into cervical cancer. There is a process of carcinogenesis where normal epithelial tissue transforms into cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. If the HPV infection is not treated and continues, it could lead to cervical cancer. Thus, the development process is relatively long, typically requiring two to three years. It is recommended that sexually active women undergo cervical cancer screening to check for any pathological changes in the cervix, including HPV, TCT, and colposcopy examinations.
What causes uterine prolapse?
The most common causes of uterine prolapse can be categorized into three types. The first type is childbirth injury, which is the main cause of uterine prolapse. During childbirth, especially with vaginal surgical assistance or prolonged second stage of labor, uterine prolapse can occur. The second cause is long-term increased intra-abdominal pressure, such as chronic coughing, habitual constipation, prolonged standing, or weightlifting. These factors can contribute to uterine prolapse. The third type involves poor development or degenerative changes in the pelvic tissues. This mainly refers to uterine prolapse due to congenital deficiencies in pelvic floor development. Generally, childbirth injuries are the most common cause.
What are the symptoms of teratoma?
Ovarian teratomas can cause abdominal pain and might even result in sudden abdominal enlargement, often accompanied by symptoms like bloating. Women experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly. Ovarian teratomas are more commonly found in younger women, particularly during their reproductive years. Thus, female patients experiencing these symptoms should promptly undergo an ultrasound at a hospital to check for the presence of teratomas and also have a blood test for tumor markers. If a teratoma is present, it is recommended to undergo surgical treatment as soon as possible due to the risk of malignant transformation.