The reproductive system is a group of organs that together function to produce offspring. The male and female reproductive systems consist of several organs, glands and ducts that work intricately together to produce sex cells and hormones while maintaining optimal organ function. The complexity of the reproductive system, along with the associated intimate contact, makes it vulnerable to a variety of diseases.
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are passed from person to person through sexual contact. With over 15 million reported cases each year in the United States alone, according to Epigee.org--an online resource developed by a doctor and dedicated to providing accurate and up-to-date information on women's health issues--STDs are a major health concern. This is especially true for adolescents and young adults between the ages of 15 and 24 who account for over half of all reported cases.
There are over 25 different kinds of STDs. Chlamydia is the most common STD in the United States. This may be due to the fact that Chlamydia often goes undetected due to a lack of symptoms. Gonorrhea is the second most commonly reported STD in the United States, according to Avert.org, an international AIDS and HIV charity. Syphilis, if not effectively treated, can cause dementia and even death. There is a vaccine available to protect against human papilloma virus (HPV) which can cause cervical cancer.
Cancer
Cancer is the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells. Cancer can occur in any type of cell in the body. There are several types of cancer that affect the reproductive systems of both men and women.
Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, which is the organ that connects the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer can be detected by a PAP test. Increased use of this test between 1955 and 1992 led to a 74 percent decline in cervical cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Women can also suffer from ovarian and uterine cancers.
Testicular and prostate cancers affect the male reproductive system. Testicular cancer (cancer of the testicles) is rare, and usually affects men between the ages of 20 and 49. Prostate cancer is much more common, affecting one in six men at some point in their lives, according to the American Cancer Society.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a disease that affects 10 to 15 percent of all women ages 15 to 45, as reported by FemmePharma, an organization specializing in women's healthcare and specifically diseases of the reproductive system. Endometriosis affects the lining of the uterus known as the endometrial tissue. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but the immune system may contribute to the disease. Endometriosis causes the lining of the uterus to bleed at incorrect times during the menstrual cycle. It also causes abdominal pain that can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
Over time, endometriosis causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to infertility. In fact, 25 to 30 percent of all unexplained infertility may be due to endometriosis, according to FemmePharma.
