The full auditorium at an educational event held at IMC Priora in Čepin demonstrated how important open discussions with medical specialists are to women, particularly when addressing preventive examinations, modern treatment methods, and health concerns that are still not discussed openly enough.
Women attending the educational event at the International Medical Center Priora in Čepin had the opportunity to ask gynecologists, plastic surgeons, and urologists questions they may never have had the chance to raise before. The event was organised as part of Pink October, a month dedicated to raising awareness of women’s health, and provided an opportunity for open discussions about issues affecting women’s health and quality of life. Preventive gynecological examinations, advanced treatment technologies, menstrual cycle disorders, menopause, breast reconstruction following cancer, and stress urinary incontinence were among the topics addressed by the participating specialists. By answering questions and encouraging discussion, the doctors emphasised the importance of making informed healthcare decisions without embarrassment or hesitation.
Preventive Gynecological Examinations and Menstrual Cycle Disorders
Clinical experience indicates that a considerable number of women still do not attend annual preventive gynaecological examinations.
“Due to the intimate nature of the examination, discomfort, or embarrassment, women often postpone visiting a gynaecologist, even when symptoms arise. They may delay seeking medical attention until the symptoms become so pronounced that they outweigh their discomfort, by which time the disease may already have reached an advanced stage. It is important to attend regular gynaecological examinations at least once a year, as many serious gynaecological conditions, including cancers, present with non-specific symptoms that can easily be attributed to other health problems. On the other hand, certain tests can detect abnormalities even before noticeable symptoms develop,” explained Dimitrije Milojković, MD, a gynaecologist, subspecialist in gynaecological oncology, and Head of the Department of Gynecology at IMC Priora.
His colleague, Marko Jovanovac, MD, a gynaecologist and subspecialist in human reproduction, explained when delayed menstruation should prompt medical attention.
“Delayed menstruation may be caused, for example, by changes in dietary habits, acute stress, or intensive physical training. If it is a temporary occurrence, there is usually no reason for concern. However, if it happens repeatedly, it is important to consult a doctor. The absence of menstruation is merely a symptom, and an underlying condition, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, may be responsible. This syndrome accounts for 85% of cases of recurrent menstrual delays,” Dr. Jovanovac stated.
He explained that polycystic ovary syndrome can have long-term consequences and therefore requires appropriate treatment to prevent subsequent health complications, including a significantly increased risk of diabetes.
Breast Reconstruction Following Cancer: Treatment Options Using the Patient’s Own Tissue
Pink October places particular emphasis on raising awareness of breast cancer, the importance of early detection, and the possibilities for recovery and reconstruction following treatment.
More than three decades ago, Professor Milomir Ninković, MD, PhD performed his first breast reconstruction using vascularised tissue flaps from the lower abdomen. A technique that was still in its early stages at the time has since become an established standard in reconstructive surgery worldwide.
“Following breast cancer surgery, breast reconstruction involves restoring both the missing skin and volume. Volume can be replaced with an implant; however, every implant is a foreign body, and the body may react to it. Reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue, which closely resembles natural breast tissue in both consistency and shape, can achieve a more natural appearance and feel, with results that may last a lifetime,” explained Professor Ninković, Head of the Department of Plastic, Esthetic, Reconstructive and Hand Surgery at IMC Priora.
Stress Urinary Incontinence and Available Treatment Options
Another important topic openly discussed at Priora was stress urinary incontinence.
For many women, coughing, sneezing, laughing, or simply going for a walk are everyday activities that require little thought. However, for women experiencing stress urinary incontinence, these situations may cause involuntary and distressing urine leakage.
“Stress urinary incontinence can most simply be described as involuntary urine leakage during coughing, sneezing, laughing, walking downstairs, or exercising. It is a condition that can significantly affect women’s quality of life. In addition to hygiene-related difficulties and skin irritation, it may lead to reduced self-confidence, social withdrawal, avoidance of physical activities, and difficulties in intimate relationships. It occurs more frequently in women who have given birth multiple times, although younger women can also be affected,” explained Tomislav Kalem, MD, MSc, a urologist, Hospital Director of IMC Priora, and Head of the Department of Urology.
One of the available treatment methods involves the insertion of a supportive mid-urethral sling.
“The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, the patient spends one day in hospital, and heavy lifting should be avoided for the following four weeks. This procedure is considered the gold standard, with a reported success rate of 98%, allowing patients to overcome the difficulties associated with incontinence,” Dr. Kalem stated.
The educational event at Priora demonstrated the importance of providing women with reliable medical information and encouraging them not to ignore symptoms or postpone seeking professional medical advice. Timely intervention, regular preventive examinations, and open communication with healthcare professionals remain essential steps in protecting women’s health and maintaining their quality of life.
