Women's Health

Cervical screening: From 1st December 2017 Australian guidelines now recommend five yearly cervical screening testing from the age of 25 years to 70-74 years. Regular screening enables early detection and treatment of cervical abnormalities to prevent progression to cervical cancer. Abnormal vaginal bleeding patterns such as intermenstrual bleeding or postcoital bleeding should be discussed with your GP as this may indicate cervical abnormalities.

Click here for link to WA Cervical Cancer Prevention Program.

Breast screening: The current recommendations are for two yearly mammograms from the age of 50 years or from 40 years for women with a strong family history of breast cancer. Routine screening is done by Breastscreen WA. Women are encouraged to be 'breast aware' and to self-examine regularly so that any changes can be detected and discussed with your doctor. It is also important to report symptoms such as nipple rash and bloody discharge to your GP as these may require further investigation.

Click here for link to Breastscreen WA

What is Menopause?

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

Menopause is the final menstrual period. Usually you only know you have had a final menstrual period if you have had no period for 12 months.

Menopause

Bladder incontinence

Bladder incontinence, also called bladder weakness, is common. Different types of incontinence, what is normal, the causes, symptoms and how incontinence is diagnosed are discussed.

Click here for link to Bladder incontinence

Fertility and pregnancy

Fertility is your ability to produce a child. Infertility is when you have had 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse and you have not become pregnant. Fertility can be affected by many things and there are also ways to increase your chances of becoming pregnant. Not being able to conceive can be distressing but talking with your doctor, counsellor or psychologist can help you to understand your options and decide what to do next.

Click here for link to Fertility and pregnancy

Polycystic ovarian syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 12-18% of women of reproductive age and up to 21% in some high-risk groups, such as Indigenous women. In these pages you will learn all about the signs and symptoms of PCOS, how it is diagnosed and what treatments are available to help. There is information on PCOS and irregular periods, acne, excess hair, hair loss, depression, anxiety, sex and relationships and other health problems associated with PCOS such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Read about the personal stories of women with PCOS and what helped them to deal with PCOS.

Click here for link to Polycystic ovarian syndrome

Contraception

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. The way each method works including the pros and cons is discussed.

Click here for link to Contraception

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that affects a woman's reproductive organs. It happens when the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it. Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and the options to manage and treat endometriosis including lifestyle, pain relief medications, hormone therapy and different types of surgery are all discussed. Often women have questions about the effect of endometriosis on their bladder and bowel, fertility, emotional health and relationships. Knowing where to go for advice and support is important, and reading and listening to the personal stories of women who have endometriosis is helpful too, particularly the importance of not giving up hope.

Click here for link to Endometriosis

Long acting reversible contraception

Implanon: This is a contraceptive implant inserted in the arm under local anaesthetic. It is a highly effective contraceptive and lasts for up to three years. It is an ideal method for young women leading busy lifestyles requiring a safe and effective contraception.

Implanon

Mirena IUS: This is an intra-uterine device that is a highly effective form of contraception with minimal hormonal side effects. It lasts for up to five years and like Implanon has the advantages of being a 'fit and forget' method of contraception.

Intra Uterine Contraceptive Device

We have female practitioners at Ocean Reef Medical Centre who are experienced in both Implanon and Mirena insertions. Please ask at reception for details.