LECZENIE RAN 2024; 21 (4)

Chronic wounds represent a significant health issue affecting a broad spectrum of patients, particularly in the fields of gynecology and obstetrics. In these specialties, chronic wounds encompass a wide range of tissue damage, including postoperative wounds, postpartum injuries, infections of the genital tract, and pathological changes in the tissues of the perineum, cervix, and vagina. Chronic wounds in this context require particular attention due to their impact on women’s reproductive health and their daily lives.

One of the most common causes of chronic wounds in gynecology is complications related to childbirth, particularly in women who have undergone a cesarean section or experienced perineal trauma during vaginal delivery. In such cases, a chronic wound may develop from a poorly healing surgical incision, leading to infections, sepsis, and, in some cases, the need for additional surgical procedures. In women who have undergone cesarean delivery, scars often pose a challenge to healing and, over time, may increase the risk of further complications in subsequent pregnancies [1].

Another significant concern is chronic wounds resulting from genital tract infections, which can lead to persistent inflammatory conditions of the vagina, cervix, or vulva. Diseases such as vaginitis, gonorrhea, or viral hepatitis can contribute to the formation of chronic wounds that require prolonged treatment and ongoing health monitoring. Improper healing of wounds following infections may lead to disturbances in reproductive system function, negatively affecting fertility and sexual health [2].

In postmenopausal women, chronic wounds may arise from weakened connective tissue and hormonal changes that affect the skin’s quality and regenerative capacity. The thinning of connective tissue, reduced collagen production, and decreased skin elasticity predispose women to the development of wounds that heal more slowly and are more problematic [3].

These various examples demonstrate the diverse causes of chronic wounds in gynecology and obstetrics. Effective treatment of such wounds requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes both preventive measures and appropriate surgical and pharmacological interventions. Modern wound therapies, such as negative pressure wound therapy, hydrogel dressings, and the use of biomaterials to support healing, are essential components of this treatment process. Additionally, educating patients on intimate hygiene, infection prevention, and postnatal health monitoring is crucial to reduce the risk of developing chronic wounds [4, 5].

Chronic wounds in gynecology and obstetrics present a serious challenge from both diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives. Successful management of these wounds necessitates an advanced approach and close collaboration among specialists to ensure full recovery and improvement of the patients’ quality of life. With the increasing number of women experiencing issues related to chronic wounds, ongoing advancements in treatment methods and patient monitoring are critical to minimizing their negative impact on reproductive health and overall well-being [1, 4].