Welcome to a New Year and the fourth issue of Primary Care Women’s Health Journal (PCWHJ). 2010 is likely to be a demanding year for GPs and practice nurses. So at PCWHJ we are working harder than ever to bring you a practical journal that helps you to maintain best-practice standards in women’s health.
Obesity and contraception: weighing the evidence
We cannot help but be aware of the ‘obesity epidemic’ and its implications for patient care. Such considerations include the provision of contraception and prevention of unwanted pregnancy. But, by asking some simple questions before prescribing or issuing contraception, we can ensure safe practice.
The gentle touch: diagnosis and treatment of vulval lumps and bumps
Most vulval lumps and bumps are relatively harmless. But they can cause anxiety, discomfort and pain, and sexually transmitted lesions cause additional distress due to perceived stigma. This article sheds light on some common vulval conditions to help you to diagnose and treat the lesions, provide reassurance or refer as appropriate.
Back to Basics: Urinary incontinence
Test for HIV in primary care
If current pilot schemes are successful, routine testing for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is likely to be extended to general practice surgeries across the country. The authors discuss the rationale for this plan, and advise on the practicalities of testing in primary care.
Heavy menstrual bleeding? Or could it be a bleeding disorder?
Most women with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) can be managed according to NICE guidance. But GPs and practice nurses need to be aware that up to one in five women with menorrhagia, especially young women, could also have a bleeding disorder. It is important to identify these patients since, if left untreated, bleeding disorders reduce quality of life and may result in significant, long-term complications.
Identifying sexual exploitation and grooming in young people
In the UK it is thought that at least 3,000 children are being sexually exploited. All professionals, including GPs and practice nurses, in regular contact with children and young people are in a good position to notice possible signs of sexual exploitation, and help to mitigate its serious long-term consequences for young people and their families.
The window of opportunity in rheumatoid arthritis
Over twice as many women as men develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an inflammatory disease that causes disability and shortens life. Early RA can be difficult to diagnose but, by following a diagnostic pathway, GPs and practice nurses can ensure that patients receive timely referral and prompt treatment with disease-modifying drugs.
Now is the time to enter the Forum’s Best Practice Award
In the last issue we announced the Primary Care Women’s Health Forum’s ‘Promoting Best Practice for Women in Primary Care Award’. I’m delighted to launch the Award, and give you the details on how to enter your projects and initiatives.
All about fibroids
Supporting women with premature menopause
Premature menopause (PM) is an emotionally challenging condition on diagnosis and throughout the remaining phases of a woman’s life. But GPs and practice nurses can do much to reduce distress by ensuring prompt diagnosis and referral for psychological support as well as medical treatment.
Editorial
This is always a very busy time and practices look set to be under even more pressure this year. But, while pandemic flu is back on the agenda, women are continuing to consult us about their other health problems and concerns. So, we’ve done our best to give you the practical information that will help you to manage the health of your female patients.
