Women's Health

Engaging with women’s health services offers numerous short- and long-term benefits, both preventive and curative. These include:

• Early Detection and Prevention: Regular screenings and check-ups help detect issues like cervical cancer, breast cancer, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at early, more treatable stages.
• Better Reproductive Health: Support in planning for pregnancy, managing fertility, and navigating contraception options allows for greater reproductive autonomy and reduced unplanned pregnancies.
  
• Hormonal Balance and Symptom Relief: Professional guidance helps women manage symptoms associated with menstruation, PCOS, menopause, and other hormonal disorders more effectively.
• Improved Mental Health: Recognising the links between hormonal health and mood, women’s health services often provide support for anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges, especially during pregnancy and menopause.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Treating chronic pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities, urinary incontinence, or sexual dysfunction can significantly improve daily comfort and relationships.
• Guidance Through Life Stages: Women’s health practitioners help guide patients through life transitions such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause, and ageing with education, support, and tailored care.
• Better Chronic Disease Management: Women often experience chronic conditions differently than men. Women’s health services tailor treatment plans to address these differences, improving outcomes for diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.
• Empowerment Through Education: Women learn more about their bodies, cycles, symptoms, and options, enabling informed decision-making and greater confidence in managing their health.
• Culturally and Gender-Sensitive Care: Many clinics offer care that respects personal, cultural, and gender diversity, reducing stigma and increasing healthcare access for all women.

Pregnancy Planning & Antenatal Care

Preparing for pregnancy and receiving regular antenatal care are essential steps for a healthy pregnancy and a positive birth experience. This care focuses on the health of both the mother and the developing baby, starting before conception and continuing until delivery.

Pre-pregnancy (Planning) Care

Before becoming pregnant, it is beneficial to schedule a dedicated consultation with your doctor to discuss your health, lifestyle, and any existing medical conditions. Key points include:

• Health assessment: Review of medical history, current medications, vaccinations, and screening for conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or genetic disorders.
• Folic acid and supplements: Advice on folic acid, iodine, and other vitamins to lower the risk of birth defects.
• Lifestyle guidance: Support to stop smoking, limit alcohol, manage weight, and start gentle exercise.
• Fertility planning: Understanding the menstrual cycle, identifying the most fertile days, and discussing any fertility concerns.

Early Pregnancy Care

Once pregnancy is confirmed, early antenatal visits help establish a care plan tailored to individual needs. Early steps include:

• Initial blood tests and ultrasound: To confirm the pregnancy, check blood type, and screen for infections or other conditions.
• Estimated due date and pregnancy schedule: Planning regular check-ups and discussing recommended screening tests.
• Management of morning sickness and early pregnancy symptoms: Practical tips for diet and rest.

Ongoing Antenatal Care

Regular antenatal visits are crucial for monitoring both the mother and the baby. Typical elements are:

• Routine checks: Monitoring blood pressure, weight, and urine to detect complications such as pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes.
• Growth and well-being of the baby: Regular abdominal measurements and ultrasounds as required.
• Screening tests: Blood tests, glucose tolerance tests, and other screenings at recommended stages.
• Vaccinations: Advice on influenza, whooping cough (pertussis), and other recommended vaccines during pregnancy.

Healthy Lifestyle and Emotional Support

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and attention to mental health are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Doctors or midwives can provide:

• Nutrition guidance: Ensuring adequate protein, iron, calcium, and vitamins.
• Exercise advice: Maintain safe activity levels and incorporate pelvic floor exercises.
• Mental health support: Screening for anxiety or depression and providing referrals when needed.

Birth Preparation and Planning

Antenatal care also includes discussions about labour, pain relief options, and hospital or birthing centre choices. Topics often covered:

• Birth plan: Preferences for labour, pain management, and support persons.
• Education sessions: Classes on childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care.

Benefits of Pregnancy Planning & Antenatal Care

Starting pregnancy planning early and attending scheduled antenatal visits can help:

• Detect and manage health issues promptly.
• Reduce risks for complications such as preterm birth or low birth weight.
• Support a smoother labour and recovery.

By combining careful preparation before conception with regular antenatal care, women can optimise their own health and give their baby the best possible start in life.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common but often underdiagnosed condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. These growths may appear on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic lining, and sometimes beyond. Each month, this tissue reacts to hormonal changes by thickening and breaking down, but it cannot leave the body. This can cause pain, inflammation, and scar tissue.

Causes and Risk Factors of Endometriosis

The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk:

• Family history: Having a mother, sister, or daughter with endometriosis.
• Early or heavy periods: Starting menstruation at a young age or having longer, heavier cycles.
• Delayed pregnancy or never having given birth.
• Hormonal influences: Higher oestrogen levels can promote the growth of endometrial tissue.
• Immune system factors: An altered immune response may fail to remove misplaced tissue.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Endometriosis symptoms can vary, and sometimes there are none. Common signs include:

• Pelvic pain: Often worse before and during periods.
• Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea): Cramping and lower back pain.
• Pain during or after sex.
• Pain with bowel movements or urination, particularly during menstruation.
• Heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods.
• Difficulty becoming pregnant (infertility).
• Fatigue, bloating, or nausea, especially during periods.

Diagnosis of Endometriosis

Diagnosing endometriosis often involves several steps:

• Medical history and pelvic examination to assess symptoms.
• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, to look for ovarian cysts (endometriomas).
• Laparoscopy, a minor surgical procedure where a small camera is inserted into the abdomen, is the only way to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease.

Treatment of Endometriosis

Treatment is tailored to the severity of symptoms, age, and plans for pregnancy. Options may include:

• Pain relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and inflammation.
• Hormonal treatments:
• Combined oral contraceptive pill
• Progestogen-only pill or injection
• Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena)
• Hormone therapies that suppress oestrogen, such as GnRH analogues
• Surgery:
• Laparoscopic excision or ablation to remove endometrial lesions and scar tissue
• Hysterectomy in severe, treatment-resistant cases (less common)
• Fertility support: Assisted reproductive technologies, such as IVF, may be recommended when endometriosis affects fertility.

Lifestyle and Supportive Care for Endometriosis

• Healthy diet and exercise: Reducing inflammation and supporting overall well-being.
• Stress management: Relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or counselling to cope with chronic pain.
• Support groups: Connecting with others for practical and emotional support.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent pelvic pain that affects daily life.
• Difficulty becoming pregnant.
• Period pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief.

Importance of Early Care for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition, but with early diagnosis and tailored management, many women achieve relief from symptoms and improve their fertility. Regular check-ups and ongoing care help reduce complications and support a better quality of life.

Birth Control

What is Birth Control?

Birth control, or contraception, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. Several types of birth control are available, each with its benefits and risks.

There are many different methods of contraception to avoid pregnancy, including the oral contraceptive pill (OCP), the mini-pill, a condom, an intrauterine device (IUD) such as Mirena, an Implanon rod, the natural family planning method and more permanent measures such as tubal ligation and vasectomy for men.

Some of these methods are confined to women and others to men, while some are reversible and some are permanent.

Who is Suitable for Birth Control?

Most individuals who are sexually active and wish to prevent pregnancy are suitable for birth control. However, certain types of birth control may be more appropriate for specific individuals depending on their health status and lifestyle.

For example, women who smoke or have a history of blood clots may not be suitable for hormonal birth control methods, as these methods can increase the risk of blood clots. Women with previous surgeries or certain medical conditions may not be suitable for specific barrier methods, such as diaphragms or cervical caps.

Individuals unsure about their suitability for birth control or who wish to learn more about the different types of available birth control should consult a healthcare provider. They will consider the individual's overall health, lifestyle, and personal preferences to recommend the best birth control option for them.

Benefits of Birth Control

There are many benefits of birth control, including the following:

• Preventing pregnancy: The most apparent benefit of birth control is that it can help prevent unintended pregnancies. This can help individuals plan for and achieve their family size and timing.
• Regulating menstrual cycles: Birth control can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and heavy or painful periods.
• Treating certain medical conditions: Birth control can treat certain conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and acne.
• Improving overall physical health: Birth control can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as ovarian and endometrial cancer, and improve bone density.
• Improving mental health: Birth control can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and also improve overall emotional well-being.
• Reducing the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Some types of birth control, such as condoms, can also help reduce the risk of certain STIs.

Birth control methods are for women and men and can be used by couples in a partnership. Birth control methods can also be used for other purposes besides preventing pregnancy, such as reducing the risk of certain types of cancer, managing menstrual symptoms, and reducing the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections.

Hormonal Methods

These methods use hormones to prevent pregnancy. Examples include:

• The birth control pill is taken orally and contains hormones that prevent ovulation.
• The small patch releases hormones through the skin and is worn on the abdomen, upper arm, or buttocks.
• The ring is a small, flexible ring inserted into the vagina and releases hormones.

Abstinence

Abstinence means not having sexual intercourse. It is the only birth control method that is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Barrier Methods

These methods physically block the sperm from reaching the egg. Examples include:

• Condoms are a barrier method placed on the penis or inserted into the vagina before intercourse.
• Diaphragms are a barrier method inserted into the vagina before intercourse and cover the cervix.
• Cervical caps are a barrier method inserted into the vagina before intercourse and cover the cervix.

Long-acting Methods

These methods are designed to be effective for extended periods and typically do not require daily attention. Examples include:

• The hormonal IUD is a small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider and releases hormones.
• The copper IUD is a small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider and does not release hormones.
• The contraceptive implant is a small rod inserted under the upper arm's skin by a healthcare provider and releases hormones.

Natural Methods

These methods rely on observing the woman's fertility signs to avoid intercourse during fertile days. Examples include:

• The rhythm method is a method that involves tracking the menstrual cycle and avoiding intercourse during fertile days.
• The basal body temperature method is a method that involves tracking a woman's basal body temperature to determine when she is fertile.

Permanent Methods

These methods are intended to be permanent and are not easily reversible. Examples include:

• Tubal ligation (for women) is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent fertilisation.
• Vasectomy (for men) is a surgical procedure that involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching the semen.

Consult with your doctor to determine which method of birth control is most appropriate for you, taking into account factors such as your overall health, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Birth Control Effectiveness

The effectiveness of birth control methods can vary depending on the chosen plan and how consistently and correctly it is used.

Hormonal methods, such as the birth control pill, patch, ring, and injection, are highly effective when used as directed. The effectiveness of these methods can be reduced if doses are missed or administered incorrectly.

Barrier methods, such as condoms and diaphragms, are also highly effective when used consistently and correctly. However, their effectiveness can be reduced if they break or slip off during intercourse.

Long-acting methods, such as IUDs and implants, are highly effective and do not require daily attention.

Natural methods, such as the rhythm method, fertility awareness, and withdrawal, are less effective and may result in unintended pregnancies.

Permanent methods, such as tubal ligation and vasectomy, are highly effective but are permanent and not easily reversible.

Birth Control Risks and Side Effects

All types of birth control carry some risks and potential side effects. Discuss the risks and benefits of different methods before choosing a birth control method with your doctor.

Common risks and side effects of hormonal birth control methods include:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Irregular bleeding
• Weight gain
• Depression
• Blood clots
• Increased risk of certain types of cancers
• Risk of hormonal imbalances
• Risk of interactions with other medications

Barrier methods, such as condoms, may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

Long-acting methods like IUDs may cause pain or discomfort during insertion and removal.

Natural methods, such as the rhythm method, may not be as effective as other methods and may result in unintended pregnancies.

Permanent methods, such as tubal ligation or vasectomy, are permanent and not easily reversible.

What if Birth Control is Delayed?


If birth control is delayed, it can increase the risk of unintended pregnancy. Birth control methods work best when used consistently and correctly.

If a person misses a dose of hormonal birth control (such as the pill), they should take the missed dose as soon as possible and use a backup method of birth control, such as condoms, for the next seven days.

If a person misses multiple doses or forgets to start a new pack of hormonal birth control, they should contact their healthcare provider for advice on how to proceed.

If a barrier method (such as a condom) is not used during intercourse, or if it breaks or slips off, emergency contraception (such as the morning-after pill) may be used to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

Mirena Coil Insertion

The Mirena coil is a type of long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC). It is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. The Mirena coil releases a low dose of progestin hormone to prevent pregnancy for up to five years. It can also be used to:

• Manage heavy menstrual bleeding
• Reduce period pain
• Support hormone therapy during perimenopause

The procedure takes just a few minutes in the clinic and does not require surgery or hospitalisation. Most women experience minimal downtime and can return to their normal activities the same day. Your doctor will explain what to expect before, during, and after the insertion, and arrange a follow-up to ensure the device is properly positioned.

Menopause Counselling

What is Menopause?

‘Menopause’ comes from the Greek words ‘menos’, meaning month and ‘pause’, meaning to cease. Menopause means the monthly period stops.

Menopause is the natural biological process in which a woman's ovaries stop producing eggs, her hormone levels decrease, and she can no longer become pregnant. It typically occurs between 45 and 55 years old, but can happen earlier or later. Menopause is marked by the end of menstruation, confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months.

During the transition to menopause, which can begin several years before the actual menopause, many women experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and sleep problems. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from woman to woman.

Hormonal changes during menopause can also increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

After menopause, a woman's risk of developing specific diseases increases. She needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have regular check-ups with her doctor.

What is Menopause Counselling?

Menopause counselling is a therapy that helps women navigate the physical and emotional changes that occur during menopause. Menopause is a natural cessation.

Who is suitable for Menopause Counselling?

Women experiencing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes, may benefit from menopause counselling.

Benefits of Menopause Counselling

• It helps women understand and manage the physical and emotional changes of menopause.
• Provides women with tools to manage symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes
• It helps women cope with the emotional changes and feelings of loss that can occur during menopause.

Types of Menopause Counselling

• Cognitive behavioural therapy
• Support groups
• Mindfulness-based therapy
• Psychoeducation

What Happens in Menopause Counselling?

• Research different types of counselling and find a therapist who specialises in menopause.
• Attend regular counselling sessions and work with your therapist to manage your symptoms and address your emotional concerns.
• Continue to attend counselling sessions as needed and take steps to maintain your emotional and physical well-being during the menopausal transition.

Why Consider Menopause Counselling?

Menopause can be a difficult transition for many women, and counselling can help women understand and manage the physical and emotional changes during this time. It can also help women cope with feelings of loss and emotional changes during menopause.

Cervical Screening

What is Cervical Screening?

Cervical screening is a medical test that checks for signs of the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which can cause abnormal changes to the cervical cells. It is a preventative health check rather than a test for cancer. If HPV is found, further tests are done to check for any changes to the cervical cells that might need treatment before they become cancerous.

This test was previously known as the Pap smear, but since 2017, Australia has used the HPV test as part of the National Cervical Screening Program. It is more accurate and detects risk earlier.

Who Should Have Cervical Screening?

Cervical screening is recommended for:

• Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years: Even if you feel well or have had the HPV vaccine, regular screening is still important.
• Those who have ever been sexually active: HPV can be transmitted through any sexual contact, not just intercourse.
• People, regardless of sexual orientation: HPV can be transmitted between women and men, as well as among women and men.

If you are under 25 and experience unusual bleeding, pain, or discharge, it is still important to speak with your doctor.

Benefits of Cervical Screening

• Early Detection of HPV: The test can identify the virus before it causes cell changes, reducing the risk of cervical cancer.
• Prevention of Cervical Cancer: Detecting abnormal cells early allows for treatment before cancer develops.
• Improved Health Outcomes: Regular screening has significantly reduced cervical cancer rates in Australia.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your results can relieve anxiety and give you control over your health.

How Often Do You Need a Cervical Screening Test?

Under the current guidelines:

• If your HPV test is negative, you only need to repeat the test every five years.
  
• If HPV is detected, follow-up tests or more frequent screening may be required, depending on the type of HPV and whether any abnormal cells are found.

If you have previously had abnormal Pap smear results or if you are immunocompromised, your doctor may recommend a different screening schedule.

What Happens During a Cervical Screening Test?

• Step 1: Appointment: You’ll need to book a visit with your GP, nurse, or women’s health clinic.
• Step 2: Positioning: You’ll be asked to lie on an examination table, usually with your knees bent and feet apart.
• Step 3: Sample Collection: A small device called a speculum is gently inserted into the vagina to allow the healthcare provider to view the cervix. A soft brush or spatula is used to collect cells from the cervix.
• Step 4: Sending for Testing: The sample is sent to a pathology lab for HPV testing.

The test usually takes only a few minutes and should not be painful; however, some individuals may experience minor discomfort or pressure.

What to Expect After the Test?

• No Downtime: You can return to normal activities immediately.
• Mild Spotting: Some individuals may experience light spotting after the test, which is a normal occurrence.
• Results: Results are usually available within a few weeks and will be sent to your doctor.
• Negative result: No HPV detected; next test in five years.
• Positive result: HPV detected; follow-up tests or referral to a specialist may be needed.

Understanding Cervical Screening Results

• HPV not detected: Very low risk of cervical cancer. Re-test in 5 years.
• HPV detected (non-16/18 types): You may need another test in 12 months to see if the virus clears naturally.
• HPV 16 or 18 detected: These are high-risk strains linked to most cervical cancers. You may be referred for a colposcopy (a closer examination of the cervix).

Colposcopy and Biopsy

If high-risk HPV or abnormal cells are found, you may be referred for a colposcopy, a procedure using a microscope to examine the cervix more closely. A biopsy may be taken to check the cells in more detail. This helps doctors decide if treatment is needed.

What if Cervical Screening is Delayed or Missed?

Delaying or missing your cervical screening increases the risk of:

• Missing early signs of HPV infection or abnormal cells.
• Developing cervical cancer without early warning.
• Needing more invasive treatment later.

It’s important to schedule your test as soon as you are due or overdue, even if you feel healthy or have no symptoms.

Is the Test Still Needed After Menopause or Hysterectomy?

• After Menopause: Yes, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• After Hysterectomy: It depends. If your cervix was removed and the surgery was not for cancer-related issues, you may no longer need screening. However, discuss with your doctor to confirm.

Sexual Health Checks

Sexual health checks are an important part of routine healthcare. They help detect and prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), support fertility, and promote overall well-being. These checks are confidential and recommended for anyone sexually active, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.

Importance of  Sexual Health Checks 

Regular testing helps to:

• Detect STIs early: Many infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or HIV, can be present without symptoms.
• Prevent complications: Untreated STIs may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, chronic pelvic pain, or complications in pregnancy.
• Protect partners: Early detection allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of passing infections to others.
• Promote peace of mind: Knowing your status can reduce anxiety and encourage open communication with partners.

When to Get Sexual Health Checks?

You should consider a sexual health check if:

• You are starting a new relationship.
• You or your partner have had unprotected sex.
• You or your partner have multiple partners.
• You notice symptoms such as unusual discharge, pain, sores, or itching.
• You simply want routine screening as part of regular health care.

Most sexually active people benefit from a check at least once a year. More frequent testing may be recommended for those at higher risk.

What a Sexual Health Check Involves

A sexual health check is straightforward and private. It usually includes:

• Confidential consultation: A discussion about your sexual history, symptoms, and any concerns.
• Physical examination: Only if symptoms or specific conditions require it.
• Tests: May include urine samples, swabs from the cervix, vagina, penis, or throat, and blood tests for infections such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.
• Counselling and education: Advice on safer sex, vaccinations (e.g., HPV, hepatitis B), and partner notification if needed.

Treatment and Follow-Up

If a test shows an infection:

• Medication: Most bacterial STIs can be cured with antibiotics.
• Monitoring: Some viral infections, like herpes or HIV, can be managed effectively with ongoing care.
• Partner treatment: Your partner may also need testing or treatment to prevent reinfection.

Prevention Tips

• Use condoms: Correct and consistent use significantly lowers the risk of many STIs.
• Vaccinations: HPV and hepatitis B vaccines can prevent certain infections.
• Regular screening: Even without symptoms, routine checks keep you and your partners safe.

Confidentiality and Support

Sexual health services are confidential. In Australia, results are not shared with employers or insurers. Clinics also provide respectful care for people of all backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations.

By making sexual health checks part of your regular healthcare routine, you can maintain reproductive health, protect your partners, and enjoy greater confidence in your sexual well-being.