In the past, common infections in female reproductive tracts were germs, fungus, and protozoon. But now HPV infections are gaining more attention from gynaecologists, who believe the virus is becoming the primary cause of cervical cancer. HPV infections among women are as high as 10-20 per cent.

Commonly, the immune system clears away the virus and only persistent HPV infections can cause cervical cancer.

"In many cases, HPV is sexually transmitted. The increase of early sexual activity and multiple sexual partners will result in more infections, leading to a high incidence of cervical cancer," said Doctor Gong Xiaoming from the Peking Union Medical College Hospital.

Cervical cancer could be effectively prevented if women have a cervical screening test, such as a pap smear, every one or two years.

An early diagnosis of cervical cancer would greatly increase the chances of successful treatment.

Uterine prolapse and urinary incontinence are also female health hazards raising more concerns in recent years. Their incidence increases when women get older.

The treatment techniques for gynaecological diseases have greatly improved. Compared to previous open abdominal procedures, minimal-invasive options are being widely used.

Besides changing gynaecological disease patterns, Gong pointed out that some abnormal phenomena should get more public attention.

Currently, in large hospitals in China, more than half the pregnant women have Caesarean births. The percentage is even higher than that of developed countries.

With natural delivery processes causing a rising number of disputes between doctors and patients, doctors tend to choose Caesarean operations to reduce medical risks, according to Gong.

Parents commonly hope the delivery process will be safe and therefore favour Caesareans.

"In fact, a lot of these operations are unnecessary," he said.

Source:China Daily