Stress that kills: a doctor tells how war affects women’s health, libido and whether it really causes cancer

7 March 15:07

Every year, more than 100 thousand new cases of cancer are diagnosed in Ukraine, a significant proportion of which are among women. Why are breast and cervical cancers becoming more common? What risk factors cannot be ignored? The danger of chronic stress and decreased libido in wartime. Why is this happening and what to do about it? Is it possible to regain desire when there is so much anxiety around? All this in an "Komersant Ukrainian" interview with Ilya Ogorodnik, an obstetrician-gynecologist with 13 years of experience and an ultrasound doctor.

Cancer is becoming a growing problem in Ukraine. Every year, doctors record more than 100 thousand new cases of cancer, and a significant portion of them are among women. The most common cancers among women are breast and cervical cancer. Why are these diseases becoming so frequent, what risk factors are important to consider, and how can the problem be detected in time?

The number of cancer cases in Ukraine is growing, and this is a concern for both doctors and patients. There are several key factors that contribute to this. One of the main ones is heredity: women with a family history of breast or cervical cancer are at increased risk. In addition, hormonal changes in the body can contribute to the development of tumors, especially in women.

Another significant factor is bad habits. Smoking, alcohol abuse, and an unbalanced diet can be triggers for the development of cancer. In addition, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is sexually transmitted, and although not all strains are dangerous, some of them can lead to serious illness.

Lifestyle is equally important. Constant stress, lack of physical activity, and sleep disturbances worsen the general condition of the body, weakening the immune system and creating favorable conditions for the development of cancer. Therefore, it is important not only to pay attention to the symptoms but also to take care of prevention: reduce stress, eat right, lead an active lifestyle, and undergo regular medical examinations.

Breast cancer in the early stages may not have symptoms, but it is important to pay attention to any lumps, changes in the shape or size of the breast, nipple retraction or discharge.

Cervical cancer also often develops without any symptoms, but abnormal bleeding, pain during intercourse, and discomfort in the lower abdomen can be alarming signals. Therefore, it is worth visiting a gynecologist for prevention at least once a year. This helps to identify potential problems in a timely manner and prevent the development of serious diseases.

Cancer is not a death sentence, especially if it is detected in the early stages. Regular examinations, a healthy lifestyle, and an attentive attitude to your body can save lives.

How does stress destroy health and what diseases does it cause?

Stress has become so commonplace in modern life that many people simply do not pay attention to it. However, as a doctor, I warn you that chronic stress not only affects your mood, but can also cause serious illnesses.

When we find ourselves in a stressful situation, the body begins to produce cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that activate the fight-or-flight response. In the short term, this helps to focus and react quickly, but if the stress lingers, the body begins to deplete.

Stress can cause hormonal disruptions that manifest themselves in menstrual irregularities, thyroid problems, or even infertility.

Prolonged stress can also cause sleep disturbances, chronic fatigue, anxiety disorders, and depression , which can also seriously affect mental health. To stay healthy, it’s important not just to ignore stress, but to learn how to control it.

Here are some simple but effective methods:

Regular sleep. Lack of sleep only increases cortisol levels. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a night.
Physical activity. Sport helps to reduce the level of stress hormones and improves the general condition of the body.
Control of the information flow. Minimizing negative news and “detoxing” from social media will help reduce anxiety.
Relaxation. Meditation, breathing practices, nature walks – all of these help reduce stress levels.
Support from loved ones. Communication with friends, family, or even a psychologist can significantly improve your emotional state.

Remember: stress is a natural reaction of the body, but if it becomes chronic, its consequences can be serious. Take care of your health and find time to relax! It is very important nowadays.

Decreased libido: doctors often say the reason is the war. Is it really so?

Decreased libido in times of war is an absolutely natural reaction of the body to prolonged stress. You shouldn’t beat yourself up for it or force intimacy through force.

In recent years, many doctors and psychologists have noticed that more and more people are complaining about a decrease in libido. The reason is constant stress, worry, anxiety, and, of course, war. When a person is in a stressful situation, the body begins to produce an increased amount of cortisol, a hormone that helps us “survive” in danger. However, if cortisol levels remain high for a long time, it negatively affects the balance of other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, which are responsible for sexual desire.

In addition to hormonal changes, constant tension and anxiety deplete the nervous system. In this state, the body simply does not “turn on” the pleasure mode – all energy is spent on maintaining basic vital functions.

The war is not just about the events around us, it is a deep psychological pressure. People experience the loss of loved ones, worry about the future, feel fear and uncertainty. In such a situation, the psyche switches to the “survival” mode, where sexual desire is not a priority. In addition, many are faced with feelings of guilt – how can you afford pleasure when there is so much pain around? This emotional background further suppresses libido.

What to do if the desire has disappeared?

Give yourself some time. It is important to understand that a temporary decrease in libido is a normal reaction to stress. Your body is adapting to new conditions, and putting pressure on yourself will only make the situation worse.
Maintain emotional contact with your partner. Frank conversations, hugs, and caring for each other will help you feel close again.
Take care of your body. Healthy sleep, physical activity, and a balanced diet improve the overall condition of the body and help restore hormonal balance.
Limit information noise. Constantly watching the news only increases anxiety. Try to control the amount of negative information in your life.
Consult a specialist. If you feel that stress or anxiety has become uncontrollable, you should talk to a psychologist or doctor. They will help you find individualized solutions.