Question Description
Reproductive System
Similar to other disorders you have explored throughout this course, those of the reproductive system can result in alterations and symptoms that overlap with disorders in other body systems. Consider a patient presenting with pelvic and abdominal pain. The underlying root of the pain could be related to disorders of organs in the reproductive system, the gastrointestinal system, or both. Once you identify the underlying cause of pain or other symptoms, you must carefully diagnose patients. Since the reproductive system’s ultimate function is to bear children, related disorders can have a significant impact on patients physically and emotionally. As with any disorder, diagnoses must be made with care, as a misdiagnosis can cause undue stress and pain for patients.
This week you examine the pathophysiology of reproductive system disorders. You also explore the impact of patient factors on the disorders.
Learning Objectives
Students will:
Compare the pathophysiology of reproductive system disorders
Evaluate the impact of patient factors on reproductive system disorders
Understand and apply key terms, concepts, and principles related to alterations of male and female reproductive systems
Photo Credit: Sven Meier/EyeEm/EyeEm/Getty Images
Learning Resources
Required Readings
Huether, S. E., & McCance, K. L. (2017). Understanding pathophysiology (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Mosby.
Chapter 32, “Structure and Function of the Reproductive Systems”
This chapter establishes a foundation for examining alterations of reproductive systems by examining the female and male reproductive systems. It covers the development of both reproductive systems and effects of aging on the systems.
Chapter 33, “Alterations of the Female Reproductive System
This chapter covers alterations of the female reproductive systems. It also explores the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
Chapter 34, “Alterations of the Male Reproductive System”
This chapter covers alterations of the male reproductive systems. It also explores the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
Hammer, G. D., & McPhee, S. J. (2019). Pathophysiology of disease: An introduction to clinical medicine (8th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.
Chapter 22, “Disorders of the Female Reproductive Tract”
This chapter reviews the normal structure and function of the female reproductive tract. It then examines disorders specific to the female reproductive tract such as menstrual disorders and infertility.
Chapter 23, “Disorders of the Male Reproductive Tract”
This chapter reviews the normal structure and function of the male reproductive tract. It then explores disorders specific to the male reproductive tract such as male infertility and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Required Media
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2012b). Final course review. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Note: Although this media piece references Week 12, the content associated with Week 12 is a review of Week 2.
Discussion: Disorders of the Reproductive Systems
While the male and female reproductive systems are unique to each sex, they share a common function—reproduction. Disorders of this system range from delayed development to structural and functional abnormalities. Since many reproductive disorders not only result in physiological consequences but also psychological consequences such as embarrassment, guilt, or profound disappointment, patients are often hesitant to seek treatment. Advanced practice nurses need to educate patients on disorders and help relieve associated stigmas. During patient evaluations, patients must feel comfortable answering questions so that you, as a key health care provider, will be able to diagnose and recommend treatment options. As you begin this Discussion, consider reproductive disorders that you would commonly see in the clinical setting.
To Prepare
Review Chapter 22 and Chapter 23 in the Hammer and McPhee text, as well as Chapter 33 and 34 in the Huether and McCance text.
Select two disorders of the male and/or female reproductive systems that interest you. Consider the similarities and differences between the disorders.
Select one of the following factors: genetics, ethnicity, age, or behavior. Think about how the factor you selected might impact the diagnosis of and treatment for the reproductive disorders.
WRITE a description of the two reproductive disorders you selected, including their similarities and differences. Then explain how the factor you selected might impact the diagnosis of treatment for the reproductive disorders.