Medicine is constantly evolving, and many familiar recommendations that were common just a few decades ago are now being re-evaluated. What was once considered normal may now turn out to be ineffective or even dangerous. Gynecologist-endocrinologist and ultrasound specialist Elena Yatsenko told WAVE RBC.UA about popular misconceptions that it is time to leave in the past.
Pregnancy as a "panacea"
One of the most persistent myths claims that giving birth can correct menstrual cycle disorders and eliminate heavy or painful periods. Doctors emphasize: pregnancy and childbirth are not a method of treatment. If a woman has symptoms requiring attention, it is necessary to find their cause and select therapy. The decision to become a mother should be a conscious choice, not an attempt to solve medical problems.
Rest for the ovaries and COCs
Another common misconception is related to the use of combined oral contraceptives (COCs). Many women believe that these drugs are needed to give the ovaries "rest." In fact, this formulation is incorrect: COCs are prescribed for specific indications, and the duration of the course is determined individually. With long-term use, a doctor may recommend a monitoring plan, but "rest" for the ovaries is not a medical term.
Menopause and hormone therapy
For women experiencing symptoms of menopause — hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, urogenital problems (dryness, burning, discomfort in the vagina, pain during sex) — menopausal hormone therapy may be indicated. However, it is not suitable for everyone. The decision is made individually, taking into account age, medical history, risks, and contraindications.
Tests and "treatment" without symptoms
The detection of certain microorganisms in tests does not always require treatment — especially if there are no complaints. For example, the detection of Ureaplasma spp. or Mycoplasma hominis in both partners does not mean they need to be treated. The tactic depends on the specific situation, test results, and the presence of symptoms.
HPV: no cure, but there is prevention
To date, there is no specific drug that can completely eliminate the human papillomavirus (HPV) from the body. The monitoring tactic depends on the type of virus and test results. Vaccination remains an important method of preventing diseases associated with certain types of HPV. However, it does not treat an existing infection, but only prevents infection.
Intrauterine contraception — not just for mothers
The widespread belief that intrauterine contraception is suitable only for women who have given birth is also outdated. This method can also be used by women who have not given birth. The choice of a specific method depends on the state of health, needs, and possible contraindications — so it should be discussed with a gynecologist.
Progesterone and pregnancy planning
Prescribing progesterone in the second phase of the menstrual cycle is not a universal way to increase the likelihood of pregnancy. The need for such support depends on the specific clinical situation and methods of infertility treatment, if they are applied. Self-administration of hormonal drugs when planning a pregnancy can be dangerous.
Supplements: not always harmless
Biologically active additives are often perceived as a safe addition to the diet. However, their composition, evidence base, and quality control can vary greatly. Supplements can interact with medications and cause unwanted effects. Therefore, regular intake of dietary supplements, especially several at once, is best discussed with a doctor and evaluated in terms of real need.
Individual approach — the key to health
Recommendations in the field of women's health should not be perceived as universal rules. What suits one person may be unnecessary or have contraindications for another. Decisions about examinations and treatment are best made taking into account the individual situation, relying on the data of modern medicine and specialist consultation.
