An overview
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Heal 4002 Intro Health Knowledge
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To understand the functions of the male and
female reproductive systems
To be able to make responsible choices
regarding our own sexual health
To be able to describe some of the
contraceptive choices available
To be aware of reproductive options
To have an overview of pregnancy &
childbirth
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
2 major groups of structures:
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External organs – collectively known as vulva
Internal organs
-vagina
-uterus
-fallopian tubes
-ovaries
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Menarche – between 9 – 17 years
Ovaries produce oestrogens and
progesterone
Oestrogen – regulates menstrual cycle
Progesterone – prepares endometrium for
pregnancy
Average menstrual cycle lasts around 28 days
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
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Tender breasts
Food cravings
Fatigue
Irritability
Depression
Dysmenorrhea
 Menstrual cramps
 Nausea & vomiting
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Toxic Shock Syndrome
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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generally occurs between 40 – 60
Cessation of menstruation
Results in decreases oestrogen levels
Symptoms include dryness, hot flushes,
headaches etc
? HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
2 major groups of structures:
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External organs
 Penis
 Scrotum
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Internal organs
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Testes
Epididymides
Vas deferens
urethra
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Conception = the fertilisation of an ovum by a
sperm.
3 conditions necessary:
1. A viable egg (ovum)
2. A viable sperm
3. Access to the egg by the sperm
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Contra – against ; Conception –fertilization
Contraception = methods of preventing
conception
Categories:
1. Barrier methods – block the egg and sperm
from joining
2. Hormonal methods
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Prevent ovulation
Thicken cervical mucus
Prevent fertilised egg from implanting
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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1.
Prevent sperm from reaching the egg by
using a physical/chemical barrier during
intercourse
Male condom
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may be used with spermicides
avoid mineral oil.
98% effective
80%-90% reduction in STI’s with latex condoms
Female Condom
Spermacides
Diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
= birth control that contains synthetic
oestrogen and/or progesterone
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Alters biochemistry preventing ovulation
Produce changes preventing sperm reaching
the egg
Oral Contraceptive
Depo-Provera
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
IUD = intrauterine device
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99% effective
Stays in place between 5-10 years
Does not protect against STD’s
Not recommended for nulliparous women
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(women who’ve never given birth)
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Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Coitus interruptus (withdrawal)
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Abstinence
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Fertility awareness
 Cervical mucus method
 Body temperature method
 Calendar method
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Female sterilisation
 Tubal ligation
 Essure
 Hysterectomy
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Male sterilisation
 Vasectomy
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Comfort
Convenience
Risk of STI’s
Future plans for children
Effect of unplanned pregnancy
Religious and moral values
Cost
Health factors
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Pro-choice: women’s right to choose
Pro-life: fetus has rights and must be
protected
http://www.abortion.gen.nz/legal/index.html
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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TOP (termination of pregnancy)
Abortion is legal in New Zealand for women
of any age, if two certifying consultants agree
that the pregnancy will seriously harm a
woman's physical or mental health.
The Contraception, Sterilisation and Abortion
Act 1977
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Maternal Health
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Stop alcohol, smoking, drugs (first 3mths crucial)
Reduce caffeine
Eat well & exercise
Avoid radiation and chemicals
Folic acid
Good antenatal care
Amniocentesis
HCG
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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40 weeks
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3 trimesters
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Embryo
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Foetus (after 3rd month)
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placenta
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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‘waters breaking’
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Episiotomy
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Caesarean section (C-section; caesar)
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Postpartum depression
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Colostrum – breast feeding
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xath6kOf0NE
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Pre-eclampsia
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High blood pressure
Protein in urine
Oedema
Eclampsia – seizures; strokes
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Miscarriage
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Ectopic Pregnancy
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Stillbirth
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SIDS
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Endometriosis
PID
Low sperm count
10% of infertility cases have no known cause
Fertility drugs
ART e.g. IVF, AID
Surrogacy
Adoption
http://video.about.com/infertility/Infertility.h
tm
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011
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Functions of the male and female
reproductive systems
Responsible choices regarding sexual health
Contraceptive choices available
Reproductive options
Overview of pregnancy & childbirth
Vivienne Josephs Semester 2, 2011