Females in dark concerning basic care - Gynecology

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Feb, 2004

Despite high numbers of women in their 40s having babies, many are ill informed about their ability to safely conceive in these later years, maintains a survey by the Vagisil Women's Health Center, White Plains, N.Y. It shows that 39% believe that a female in her 40s can conceive and have a baby as easily as a woman in her 20s.

The finding, part of the "Feminine Health Myths & Misconceptions" survey, illustrates that, in some highly critical feminine health areas, women may not be well versed in the latest, most crucial information that impacts their health and well-being.

"Women need accurate information to make informed decisions about important feminine health issues," notes Faye Wattleton, president of the Center for Advancement of Women and former president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. "This research shows that while we're making headway, there are still key feminine health concerns for which women need facts."

Other survey findings include:

* Eighty-six percent believe that yeast infection is the most common type of feminine infection when in reality it is bacterial vaginosis, which is caused by an imbalance of the organisms usually found in a healthy vagina.

* Fifty-nine percent do not know to refrain from sexual activity before a Pap test. Engaging in intercourse within 24 hours of a Pap test could alter the results.

* Eighty percent are unaware that an annual Pap test should be taken by all women over 21, even if not sexually active.

* Fifty percent think it is just as easy for a woman to conceive and have a healthy, normal baby at any time during her reproductive years.

* Twenty percent assume there is little or no risk associated with using fertility drugs. While many are turning to fertility medications to increase the chance of conception, pregnancy rates generally are poor among women over 40 and the risk of miscarriage is greater. Additionally, use of fertility drugs can produce multiple births, placing additional strain on the mother's body and possibly causing lifelong health problems for the offspring.

* Forty-eight percent presuppose that breast cancer is the leading cause of death among women. According to most sources, heart disease is number-one, resulting in about 366,000 deaths annually.

* Forty-two percent do not know that ovarian cancer has no symptoms in its early stages. Women should see a gynecologist regularly so that potential problems can be identified.