Female canoeist suffered ruptured uterus after race; doctor rescued in time
A female canoeist suffered from a ruptured uterus after a race and was rescued in time, highlighting the dangers that female athletes often face. The incident took place at the Fuyang Water Sports Center where the athlete, known as Yi Shumin (alias), participated in a canoe competition.
7 October 2023
Zhejiang Provincial First People's Hospital Gynecologist Zhu Hongli expressed deep concern about the challenges faced by female athletes, noting that intense physical activity, like pregnancy and sports, can lead to ruptured ovaries in certain cases. Urinary retention is another rare cause of such complications.
Dr. Zhu explained that follicles, which are hollow shells filled with connective tissue and veins, play a crucial role in the reproductive process. These structures release eggs during ovulation, and afterward, they grow into yellow tissues called follicles, assisting in pregnancy through the corpus luteum.
However, if an egg doesn't get released, the follicle may break, causing severe pain and internal bleeding within the abdominal cavity, a condition known as luteal rupture. This complication is often without foreshadowing and can be fatal in case of delay in treatment.
The incident has sparked heated discussions on social media platforms like Weibo, with users expressing concern and sharing advice. Many netizens have used the opportunity to remind women to take care of their health during menstruation, advising them to avoid vigorous exercise, pay attention to self-protection, arrange sexual life rationally, adjust diet, reduce abdominal pressure behavior, and manage primary diseases actively.
Some users have also shared their own experiences and recommended seeking immediate medical help in case of stomach pain. They emphasized that it is crucial to recognize the symptoms of luteal rupture on time to avoid severe complications such as heavy bleeding, surgery, and even death risks, especially for unmarried and childless women who may not associate stomach discomfort with such serious issues.
However, some netizens have expressed worry about the potential over-scaring of female athletes, stating that excessive caution can hamper their performance on the field. They encourage female athletes to maintain a healthy balance between physical training and self-care, advising them to avoid intense exercise during menstruation whenever possible.
In light of this incident, it is evident that while female athletes face numerous challenges, they can overcome them with proper care and awareness. The public should understand the risks associated with luteal rupture, and women must prioritize their health, especially during menstruation. By doing so, we can help ensure a safer environment for all female athletes and promote their overall well-being.
