Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare for a gynaecologist appointment?
First and foremost, please bring a referral from your GP, along with any previous test results, relevant medical history, and a list of your current medications. Keeping a record of your cycle details and symptoms, as well as noting down any questions in advance, will help you make the most of your consultation.
Can Endometriosis be cured?
There is no permanent cure, but symptoms can be well managed with hormone treatments, pain management, surgery, and lifestyle support. Medicare provides rebates for many consultations and procedures, and some surgical treatments may also be covered by private health insurance.
If I have a hysterectomy, will I go through menopause?
If only your uterus is removed, your ovaries will continue to produce hormones until natural menopause, but periods will stop. If your ovaries are also removed, you will enter menopause immediately. Your doctor will discuss hormone therapy options if needed.
When should I consult a fertility specialist?
See a specialist if you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months (6 months if over 35), or sooner if you have irregular cycles, endometriosis, PCOS, or a history of pelvic surgery. Medicare rebates are available for fertility consultations, and some investigations may also be partly covered.
Are there any lifestyle changes that improve my periods?
Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, reducing alcohol, quitting smoking, managing stress, and improving sleep can support menstrual health. These changes may also improve fertility outcomes
What supplements should I start in the preconception period?
In Australia, folic acid (400–500 mcg daily) and iodine (150 mcg daily) are strongly recommended before and during early pregnancy. Depending on your needs, vitamin D or iron may also be advised. Many of these supplements are available over the counter at pharmacies.
How do I calculate my fertility window?
Your fertile window spans the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. For a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs around day 14. Ovulation predictor kits are readily available in Australian pharmacies and can improve accuracy in timing.
Can Lichen Sclerosus be cured?
It cannot be cured, but potent topical steroid creams are highly effective in controlling symptoms and preventing progression. Regular follow-up is important to monitor skin changes and lower cancer risk. Treatments are generally PBS-subsidised in Australia.
Should I consider freezing my eggs?
Egg freezing may be suitable if you want to delay childbearing or face medical treatments that affect fertility. Success rates are higher when eggs are frozen before 35. In Australia, Medicare rebates currently apply to fertility preservation for medical reasons (e.g. before chemotherapy), but not for elective social egg freezing. Private health insurance rarely covers egg freezing but may cover hospital-related costs if procedures are required.
What should I discuss with an adenomyosis specialist if I am planning a pregnancy?
Let your specialist know about your pregnancy plans before starting treatment, as reproductive goals can influence which management options are considered. Your assessment may take into account your age, fertility history, extent of adenomyosis, other gynaecological conditions and previous treatments. This information can help guide a personalised approach that considers both symptom management and future pregnancy planning.
When should I consider seeing a fertility specialist?
The appropriate time to seek fertility advice depends on factors such as age, how long you have been trying to conceive, menstrual regularity and known reproductive health conditions. Earlier assessment may be appropriate if you have irregular or absent periods, endometriosis, known tubal concerns, male fertility factors or other conditions that may affect fertility. A fertility specialist in Melbourne can assess your individual circumstances and advise whether further investigation or treatment should be considered.
What happens if an IVF cycle does not result in pregnancy?
If an IVF cycle does not result in pregnancy, your specialist can review the treatment cycle, including ovarian response, fertilisation and embryo development, and discuss whether any changes or further investigations may be appropriate. Depending on your circumstances, options may include another IVF cycle, a frozen embryo transfer if suitable embryos are available, an alternative fertility treatment, or further assessment before deciding on the next step.
What if I cannot or prefer not to use hormone therapy?
Hormone therapy is not the only option for managing menopausal symptoms. Depending on the symptoms involved, non-hormonal approaches may include lifestyle changes, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, selected prescription medicines, vaginal moisturisers or lubricants, and other supportive measures. Your specialist can discuss which options may be appropriate for you.
What should I discuss with my specialist before Fibroid removal if I want to become pregnant?
If future pregnancy is important to you, let your specialist know before treatment decisions are made. Your assessment may consider the location of the fibroids, whether they affect the uterine cavity, your fertility history, ovarian reserve where relevant and any previous pregnancy concerns. This helps ensure that treatment planning takes your reproductive goals into account.
Can pelvic pain always be explained by an ovarian cyst?
Not necessarily. Pelvic pain associated with an ovarian cyst can resemble symptoms caused by endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic floor conditions or other gynaecological problems. A thorough assessment helps determine whether the cyst is likely to be responsible for the pain or whether another cause should be investigated.
If an ovarian cyst is monitored, how is follow-up usually planned?
Follow-up depends on the type of cyst, its size, your symptoms and your stage of life. In some cases, repeat ultrasound may be recommended to check whether the cyst has resolved, remained stable or changed over time. Further management is then based on those findings.
What does recurrent pregnancy loss treatment involve if a cause is Recognized?
Recurrent pregnancy loss treatment is based on the underlying factor identified during assessment. Management may involve treatment of certain medical or hormonal conditions, further assessment or management of uterine abnormalities, preconception planning, or closer monitoring during a future pregnancy. Treatment is individualised rather than using one approach for every patient.
When may fertility assessment be appropriate after recurrent miscarriage?
Fertility assessment may be considered when recurrent miscarriage occurs alongside difficulty conceiving, concerns about ovarian reserve, age-related fertility changes, male fertility factors or previous fertility treatment. The aim is to consider both the ability to conceive and factors relevant to maintaining a future pregnancy.
What happens if miscarriage investigations do not identify a cause?
Miscarriage investigations Melbourne can be completed without identifying a clear explanation for recurrent pregnancy loss. This does not mean that further care is unnecessary. Your specialist can review the findings, discuss any remaining considerations and develop an individualised plan for preconception care and monitoring in a future pregnancy.
When should I contact my doctor after a colposcopy?
You should seek medical advice if you develop heavy bleeding, severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, or an unpleasant-smelling discharge after the procedure. These symptoms are uncommon, but they should be assessed promptly if they occur.