Interview with gynaecologist Dr Latha Venkatram

We caught up with our favourite gynaecologist to clear up some frequently asked doubts. See what she had to say.

Gynaecologist Dr Latha Venkatram discusses common women’s health concerns

Dr. Latha Venkatram is a leading gynaecologist based in Bangalore. She’s been practising for over 15 years and is on mDhil’s health advisory panel. We decided to go to her with some nagging questions on female health. Here’s what she had to say on the state of women’s health in India.

Q. In your experience, what are the 5 most common health problems plaguing Indian females? Is there anything you see specifically afflicting women living in Banglore?

A. The most common health problems faced by women today would be:

1. Menstrual problems- PCOS, fibroids, endometriosis, which could cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, pain during periods etc.

2. Obesity

3. Thyroid disorders

4. Infertility

5. Pregnancy related problems

Stress levels appear to be high in women of Bangalore because of their target orientated lives.

(Check out some tips to reduce stress.)

Q. Talking of period pains, can you elaborate on what causes PMS and what can a female can do to handle it well?

A. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common gynaecological health issue. The signs and symptoms include mood changes, irritability, anxiety, depression, lack of concentration, headache, bloating, breast tenderness, lower abdominal heaviness and altered pattern of urination, change in sexual behaviour and craving for sweet/savouries. In its more severe form it may be associated with depression and inability to think and communicate properly. More than 80% of women may have a combination of these symptoms when questioned.

Every woman goes through cyclical hormonal changes every month. Why is that some women react differently? This is because lack of discipline in diet, lack of exercise and stress can give these a disease-like state (pathological).

Treatment modalities include lifestyle changes – diet, exercise, and stress reduction techniques like yoga. Supportive therapy may be given in the form of vitamins and antioxidants. Some women may require suppression of ovulation.

(Get tips for a pain-free period here.)

Q) Can you identify any particular trends or changes in female health that you’ve seen in the span of your career?

A. I have been practicing for 15 years and I find that all the gynaecological problems and pregnancy related problems mentioned earlier, particularly diabetes and thyroid disorders, are on the rise. Stress has played a major role in exaggerating health issues at physical, mental and social levels.

Q) What is your take on cervical cancer? Why is an increase in ratio of this cancer seen in Indian females and what is your view on the cervical cancer vaccine? Also, is breast cancer a major threat in India as well?

A. Cervical cancer has always been higher in our country because of lack of awareness, lack of screening facilities and lack of uniform interpretation.

HPV vaccination is the only anticancer vaccine available as of today. The protection is about 95%. Ideally girls should be vaccinated before the onset of sexual activity. It might still offer some protection to married women. However, it’s important to note that vaccination doesn’t remove the need for screening with Pap smear.

Breast cancer is certainly on the rise. Obesity, diabetes and stress have all probably contributed to the increase, apart from genetic predisposition.

Q) What are the common things or diagnostic tests, that an urban women should include in her routine health check up?

A. Routine health check should include clinical examination – BP, BMI etc. Blood tests should include haemoglobin estimation, blood sugars, thyroid function tests, lipid profile, Pap smear once in 3 years, ultrasound scan of abdomen and pelvis, mammogram once in 3 yrs after the age of 50 or earlier if there is a family history of breast cancer/worrying breast lesions.

Q) Any health tip – or advice you would like to share with our females readers.

A. Strive for a happy, stress-free and healthy lifestyle. Follow effective contraception to avoid unplanned pregnancies.

(Read all about the various methods of contraception here.)

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