Spectrum of gynecological disorders in geriatric women: a tertiary care centre study

Abstract

Background: Older women constitute the fastest growing segment of Indian population. Postmenopausal phase is important and primary care physicians should be aware of common gynaecologic concerns and the potential impact of these on the function and quality of life of older women.Methods: A Prospective cross-sectional study was conducted over a period of one year on 100 postmenopausal women aged 65 years or above, who attended OPD or were hospitalised between November 2015 and October 2016.Results: Literacy rate was 30%. Study population was drawn equally from rural and urban population. Genital tract malignancy was the major gynecological disorder (32%), the commonest being the carcinoma cervix. Next in order was carcinoma ovary and carcinoma endometrium. This was followed by pelvic organ prolapse (26%) and urogenital infections (17%). POP was grade 3 in 85% patients.Conclusions: Pelvic organ prolapse, genital tract malignancies and urogenital infections were the major gynecological problems faced by older women. Moreover, postmenopausal bleeding was a possible underlying cause of malignancy, of which carcinoma cervix tops the list, emphasizing the need for a screening programme in Indian women. There is urgent need to develop dedicated geriatric units and to encourage women to receive routine gynecological check-ups in the early post menopausal period that will enable early diagnosis and treatment.