As a skilled gynaecologist I will take care of your gynaecological concerns in a sensitive and respectful manner. I believe in clear open communication and encourage you to raise all concerns during our consultation. I understand that many gynaecological problems can cause pain, discomfort and impact on fertility. I will listen with warmth and empathy aiming to provide the most appropriate, evidence-based treatment options that meet your needs. There may be a variety of treatment options to be considered depending on your stage in life and future plans. I will listen to your individual needs and situation and give a sensitive and respectful assessment.
Routine cervical screening tests are an important preventative measure in women’s health preventing hundreds of cases of cervical cancer each year in Australia. I perform routine cervical screening tests (the new version of the old pap smear) as part of routine preventative screening or as part of your care for a gynaecological condition that you have been referred to see me for.
Abnormal cervical screening test results may require further investigation and management including colposcopy (a detailed examination of the cervix) to diagnose pre-cancerous changes called dysplasia that without treatment can lead to cervical cancer.I can perform colposcopy in my rooms and if treatment is required arrange for you to undergo the appropriate procedure.
The causes of abnormal menstrual bleeding are numerous and range from hormonal disturbances to uterine problems such as fibroids and polyps. Investigation usually involves a combination of clinical assessment, measurement of hormonal levels and ultrasound. Management may include hormonal therapies (contraceptive pill, Mirena), hysteroscopic surgery (removal of fibroids/polyps or endometrial ablation and laparoscopic/open surgery (removal of fibroids or hysterectomy).
Endometrial Ablation involves ablating or surgically destroying the lining of the womb usually with a device such as a Novasure endometrial ablation system which uses microwave energy to achieve this. It is an excellent treatment for women with heavy menstrual bleeding and is less invasive than a hysterectomy.
Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. The recommended procedure will depend on the size and position of the fibroid(s). If the fibroids are within the uterus then they can be removed by a type of keyhole surgery called a hysteroscopic myomectomy without the need for an incision on the abdomen and this usually means a quick recovery. Other fibroids may need either laparoscopy or open surgery.
Hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus. It can be necessary for a variety of reasons such as: management of severe endometriosis and to remove uterine fibroids when fertility is no longer desired; management of pre-cancerous or early cancer cells in the lining of the uterus; management of abnormal periods where other less invasive attempts at management have not worked. Hysterectomy can be performed vaginally, laparoscopically or at open surgery. The reason for the hysterectomy will dictate which type of surgery should be undertaken. A common misconception is that the ovaries must be removed at the time of a hysterectomy. Most of the time this is not necessary and for women before the age of menopause it is unusual to remove the ovaries as they are important for the maintenance of healthy hormone levels.