What your OB/GYN should be asking you about..but probably isn't

Have you ever heard of "Psychosocial Obstetrics and Gynecology"? 

I hadn't either.

But a recently published study, followed by a little more research into the subject, lead me to this interesting area of medicine!

The study published in the British Medical Journal looked a the connection between: "bilateral oophorectomy" (removal of both ovaries) and trauma or adverse experiences (either in child- or adulthood).

Research found abuse, neglect, and violence all significantly increased the risk factor for this surgery before menopause. 

The reason women may get an oophorectomy, or ovarian removal, can be for conditions such as:

• Ovarian cancers
• Ovarian cysts
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Ovarian torsion [twisting of ovaries]
• Benign tumors
• Cancer prevention

Yet, despite having similar conditions, women without a history of trauma or adverse events were less likely to have the procedure. 

Early removal of a vital female organ such as the ovaries does not come without risk. The ovaries are in charge of producing estrogen and progesterone. When removed before menopause, where production of these hormones would naturally decline, you lose the protective and beneficial effects of these hormones. 

This means that women who have this procedure are more at risk for:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Osteoporosis
• Cognitive decline 
• Reduced sexual function
• Even premature death

This study highlights an important connection in female health and gynecology issues with mental health and psychological stress. 

Other studies have looked at these connections too!

They show the importance of treating both the women's health concern and any associated psychological stress or dysfunction.

While some of these may just be associations, rather than a clear cause and effect, we know the mind-body connection is powerful beyond belief. There are likely several ways that our thoughts, experiences, and behaviours can impact our gynecological health (and visa versa).

Here are a few other connections that have been found:

• Depression has been correlated with complaints of heavy menstrual bleeding and clotting.
• Anxiety has been correlated with chronic painful menstruation
• Stress is known to be a factor in the loss of menses (amennorrhea)

If you have menstrual, breast, ovarian, or other gynecological concerns, it worth looking at how your mental health has been impacted by these concerns, and how it may even be worsening or contributing to your physical health issues. 

Simple tips to improve the gynecological and psychological connection:

• Positive affirmations
• Probiotics (promotes a healthy gut, vaginal flora, healthy mind)
• Mindfulness (strengthen the mind body connection)
• Anti-inflammatory lifestyle (many gynecological concerns are inflammatory in nature; many mental health issues are also inflammatory in nature)
• Vitamin D (low levels associated with many cancers including breast; low levels also linked with depression) 
• Exercise (promotes healthy body and mind)

Yours in health,

Dr. Ashley Nelson
Naturopathic Doctor

If you're looking for a more holistic look into your health, or are curious to learn more about these connections, book a free consult with Dr. Nelson below!

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