On June 9th, World Women’s Reproductive Health Day, Dr. Liu Xiru, the director of the Reproductive Medicine Center at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, highlighted the importance of uterine health in determining a woman’s fertility. She urged women of childbearing age to take steps to protect their fertility, including regular fertility assessments.
The Uterus: Both Fragile and Strong
The uterus, often referred to as the cradle of life, is both a vulnerable and resilient organ. Conditions such as uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, endometriosis, intrauterine adhesions, endometrial scarring, and thin endometrium pose significant threats to uterine health. Dr. Liu explained that one of the most common causes of uterine damage is the repeated surgical trauma to the endometrium from procedures like induced abortions.
“The endometrium is crucial for embryo implantation and development. If the basal layer of the endometrium is damaged, it can lead to scarring and even intrauterine adhesions,” she said. “While we can address other types of external damage, if the ‘soil’ itself is compromised, it becomes very challenging to treat.” Dr. Liu emphasized the importance of using contraception to prevent the need for abortions.
Menstruation as a Indicator of Reproductive Health
Menstruation is another key indicator of reproductive health. It serves as both a signal for fertility and a display of hormonal balance. “Normal menstruation includes cycle frequency, regularity, duration, and blood volume. Typically, a menstrual cycle of 28 days, plus or minus 7 days, is considered stable,” Dr. Liu explained. “If the menstrual cycle changes by more than 7 days within a year, it is considered irregular.”
She noted that significant variations in menstrual cycle length, such as a cycle of 20 days one month and 40 days the next, could indicate a decline in ovarian reserve. Additionally, prolonged menstrual periods lasting eight or nine days could signal abnormal uterine bleeding, both of which warrant medical attention.
Delayed Childbearing and Fertility Concerns
In recent years, many women have delayed childbearing due to work and academic pressures. Dr. Liu warned that the optimal age for childbearing is between 25 and 35 years old. Even for those without immediate plans to conceive, she recommended that women of childbearing age undergo fertility function tests every two years to monitor their reproductive health.
Conclusion
On this World Women’s Reproductive Health Day, experts like Dr. Liu Xiru are calling for increased awareness and proactive measures to protect women’s fertility. By understanding the importance of uterine health and monitoring menstrual patterns, women can take essential steps to safeguard their reproductive well-being. Regular fertility assessments are a crucial part of this preventive approach.
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