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Though generally not life threatening, these chronic women's health conditions can have a huge impact on a woman's quality of life!
Chronic conditions usually:
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have complex and sometime unknown causes
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may affect individuals alone or with other diseases
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usually have a gradual onset
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compromise quality of life and create limitations and disability
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are long-term and persistent.
We do have on-site gynaecologists, and many women's health GPs who have special skills, qualifications and experience in these chronic gynaecological issues, understand what you're going through, and are ready to help you as soon as possible!
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Diagnosis & Management
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is NOT a disease - It is a syndrome. This means there are a collection of features, which when grouped together, give rise to a pattern which can effect a woman's overall health and wellbeing.
The main problems that PCOS can cause are menstrual irregularity, insulin resistance (or metabolic issues) and occasionally infertility.
Q.
I've heard that if I have PCOS I can't get pregnant!?
Not true. Women with PCOS still need to use contraception if getting pregnant is not desired.
The problem is that ovulation is more difficult to predict in women who have PCOS and therefore the “calender method” is not reliable.
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If I have cysts on my ovaries, does that mean I have PCOS?
Q.
No. Many women have cysts on their ovaries, as they are dynamic, active organs which are constantly getting ready to release an egg or recover from ovulation.
The diagnosis of PCOS is made according to the Rotterdam criteria. PCOS is multifactorial and requires sustained attention and support to address the mental health issues which can occur, as well as other issues such as weight loss and fertility management.
GPs are the perfect medical professional to manage PCOS. It is not necessarily a lifelong diagnosis.
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Endometriosis Diagnosis, Workup, Management and Counselling
Endometriosis is commonly underdiagnosed and badly managed in general practice.
The gold standard for clinching the diagnosis is to have a laparoscopy, however, there is much that can be achieved without a laparoscopy.
A good GP will be able to help with the debilitating symptoms which often come with endometriosis, on clinical suspicion alone.
We will need you to complete a diary which will help us work out whether endometriosis is the issue or something else.
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The good news is that endometriosis often responds well to hormone therapy, such as a pill or hormonal IUD.
We also have gynaecologists who can consult with you via telehealth and plan for a laparoscopy if necessary.
Debunking a few of the myths we hear about Endometriosis
To celebrate and support Endometriosis Awareness Month, Dr Emma Boulton debunks some of the most common myths we hear about endometriosis at Clinic 66 and Clinic 66 Online.
Our Specialised GPs are extremely concerned about some of the sexual and reproductive health misinformation that is being spread on the socials, and the internet in general.
Adenomyosis
If you're experiencing heavy painful periods month after month, you may have adenomyosis.
Adenomyosis is similar to endometriosis in that the cells lining the uterus get into the wrong spot, causing havoc!
Adenomyosis typically affects older women and apart from causing anaemia, it can make life miserable.
Treatment options include a hormonal IUD, uterine artery embolisation and hysterectomy.
We can help with making a diagnosis (easily achieved with a good ultrasound scan) and help you consider the risks and benefits of each treatment. We have specialists in our network who can consult with you via telehealth too.
Pre Menstrual Dysphoria Disorder (PMDD)
Are you debilitated by mood swings, anger, tearfulness and irritability which syncs with your period?
Pre Menstrual Dysphoria Disorder is a condition which affects some unlucky women. In its worst form, it can interfere with relationships, work and quality of life.
The good news is that help is available. A good women's health GP will be able to help.
Treatment options include contraception (by ironing out the peaks and troughs in hormone levels), medication to raise your serotonin levels and lifestyle adjustment.
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