Gynaecology

• Abnormal periods
• Abnormal pap smears
• Contraception
• Infertility
• Menopause

Abnormal periods
There are a number of menstrual disorders affecting women throughout the reproductive years ranging from heavy periods (menorrhagia) to irregular (Oligomenorrhea) or absent periods (amenorrhea). Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea) can also cause significant disruption to daily life and all of these can be investigated and treated providing significant relief of symptoms.
What tests will I have?
Investigations include blood tests, ultrasound scans and a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy. 
How is this treated?
Possible treatments include the oral contraceptive pill or other hormone therapy, a Mirena® or endometrial ablation. Ultimately some women may benefit from a hysterectomy. We can discuss which treatment is best for you.

Abnormal pap smears
An abnormal pap smear can be a cause for significant anxiety and concern, however the investigation and management can provide significant reassurance, and prevent the development of cervical cancer if treated appropriately. Investigation and treatment of abnormal pap smears is done with colposcopy and a day surgery procedure called LLETZ or a Cone Biopsy.
What is Colposcopy?
The Colposcope provides a magnified view of the cervix and is the next step to investigate an abnormal pap smear. This examination takes a few minutes and identifies where the abnormal area is and allows the gynaecologist to determine where is the best place to take a small biopsy to determine how significant the abnormal area is.  A cervical biopsy is only small and causes only slight discomfort .
What is a LLETZ procedure?
A LLetz procedure (large loop excision of the transformation zone) is done as a day surgery at the Mater Private or Greenslopes Private Hospitals. You will have a light general anaesthetic and while you are asleep the abnormal area of the cervix is removed. The removed tissue is sent away for histological examination with the pathologist to ensure the entire area has been removed. Follow up pap smears are required after the procedure, before you return to your GP for ongoing routine smears
What is a Cone Biopsy?
Sometimes a larger area of the cervix needs to be taken to be certain all the abnormal cells have been removed. The amount of cervix that needs to be removed will be determined by the degree and extent of your cervical abnormality on biopsy and your age.

Contraception
There are a number of methods of contraception available. We can assist you to choose the best method for yourself and your partner. A Mirena can be inserted in the rooms at a time convenient to you.

Infertility
If you and your partner are experiencing difficulties falling pregnant, we can help to determine what the possible problem may be and the options open to you. These may include therapy with Clomid or referral for IVF.

Menopause
The change of life or menopause is an important milestone for women. This time of life can be associated with a number of problems .Some women experience significant symptoms and there is much that can be done to assist you to feel more comfortable, including hormone therapy and lifestyle management options.