Women’s Health Problems - A Global Perspective

Abstract

Women’s health issues constitute a multifaceted global challenge, encompassing a wide range of complex problems that impact millions of women around the world. This edited volume, Women’s Health Problems – A Global Perspective, presents a comprehensive overview of the various health issues and societal challenges women face across different cultural, religious, and economic contexts. Our expert contributors, from diverse fields, offer in-depth analyses and evidencebased insights into topics including reproductive health and sexual health matters, menstruation, health service utilization, violence against women, and inequalities experienced by women. By examining these topics from a global perspective, this book underscores both the shared and distinct challenges women face in various regions. We aim for this collection to not only inform and educate but also to inspire further research and policy initiatives to enhance women’s health worldwide. This work is dedicated to all women, whose health and well-being are essential to the progress of our global society. The health of a woman throughout her life, from childhood to menopause, is a key focus of this volume. The holistic approach postulates that the function of the female reproductive system is critically dependent on general health. Ultrasound is of great significance in the medical visualization and diagnosis of diseases in women. Social and psychological adaptation depends on hormonal regulation. Premenstrual disorders can disrupt the daily activities of adult women. Testosterone is responsible for some adverse effects in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome or adrenal gland hyperplasia. Transgender individuals are the target population for prolonged testosterone administration. However, androgens play a beneficial role in sexual desire. Marriage is a considerable step towards childbirth. Multinational marriage is not only an ethical dilemma but also an instrument for improving genetic disturbances. Pregnancy is a period of maximal adaptive changes in the female reproductive system. The system of antenatal screening using biochemical and biophysical markers can contribute to the early diagnosis of chromosomal disorders, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and fetal growth restriction. Pre-eclampsia is one of the major obstetric syndromes that plays a crucial role in the programming of fetal and maternal health. There is no efficient treatment for pre-eclampsia, thus the emphasis is on prevention. Female endocrine regulation is an important part of homeostasis. Hypoestrogenicity is a trigger event for atherogenic vasculopathy. The activity of the ovaries impacts metabolic processes, vascular tone, and endothelial function. Hyperandrogenicity in polycystic ovarian disease is a trigger for adiposity, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis. The increased level of testosterone persists even after menopause. Hormonal changes during menopause are discussed. Hormone replacement therapy has not shown an evident beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system. A possible therapeutic strategy for improved cardiovascular health during the transitional years of life is presented. The use of diet, L-arginine, and xylitol could be reasonable options for managing perimenopausal women. An alternative regimen of hormonal replacement therapy with herbal soy isoflavone extracts is presented as an efficient and safe option for women in their transitional years. This book includes a preface by the editors, followed by 12 chapters written by international experts, arranged in four sections. It is a useful resource for social workers, psychologists, general practitioners, endocrinologists, and gynecologists.