During Women’s Health Week, a pivotal moment for spotlighting women’s health issues, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, and Federal Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale MP, visited the Hunters Hill Medical Practice (HHMP) to underscore the importance of accessible and comprehensive women’s health services. Their visit highlights the ongoing commitment to improving healthcare for women, particularly through the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic, which benefits from funding provided by the Federal Department of Health.

Celebrating Women’s Health Week

Women’s Health Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the unique health challenges women face and promoting the importance of proactive health management. An emphasis on empowerment and supporting women has emerged. HHMP aims to provide comprehensive support systems to address various health issues, from general wellness to specific conditions like endometriosis. The week serves as a reminder of the importance of regular health check-ups, education, and community support in managing women’s health concerns.

Spotlight on Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain

An area of focus for Minister Kearney has been endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately one in seven Australian Women and one in ten women globally. Endometriosis is characterised by the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus outside the uterus, causing chronic pain and potentially leading to infertility. The Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic at HHMP aims to provide support, strategies and hope for women suffering from these debilitating conditions.

The clinic, supported by the Federal Department of Health, provides focused care that includes medical treatment, physiotherapy, dietitian advice, psychological support, and nursing care. This holistic approach aims to address the multifaceted nature of endometriosis and pelvic pain, offering patients a range of options tailored to their specific needs.

Meeting with HHMP Staff

During their visit, Minister Ged Kearney and MP Jerome Laxale had the opportunity to meet with the dedicated staff of HHMP. The visit began with a clinic tour and proceeded to meetings with the clinic’s team, including doctors, physiotherapists, psychologists, nurses, and management staff. The parliamentarians engaged in detailed discussions about the range of services offered at the clinic and the impact of federal funding on their ability to provide comprehensive care.

Dr Kylie Ozen and Dr Pooja Rastogi, both of whom see patients at the HHMP Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic, spoke about the challenges and successes of treating patients with endometriosis. They emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, which combines medical treatments with physical therapy and psychological support and dietary advice to improve overall patient outcomes. Dr Charbel Badr, Medical Director at HHMP discussed using the grant funding to integrate these services to ensures that the greatest number of patients receive them. This included innovative approaches such as online group sessions which helped the team deliver services to some patients who are 200+ kilometres away.

Monica Marcos from Ryde Road Physiotherapy, discussed the role of the physiotherapists at the clinic in helping patients manage pain and improve their quality of life through specialised exercises and techniques such as TENS. Amanda Patterson discussed the role of psychological support to help patients cope with their ongoing pain, manage the emotional toll of chronic pain and control the stress associated with their condition.

The nurses and management staff were also recognised for their essential roles in delivering care and maintaining the clinic’s operations. Their dedication ensures that patients receive continuous, high-quality care and that the clinic runs smoothly.

The Impact of Federal Funding

Federal funding has been instrumental in supporting the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic’s operations. This funding has enabled HHMP to expand its services, invest in state-of-the-art equipment, and enhance patient support systems. The funding has also allowed HHMP to send a team to The Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia‘s national seminar in Adelaide to keep up to date. Minister Kearney was very supportive of the teams work and discussed some options to help further support women’s health.  Mr Jerome Laxale congratulated the staff on the work they were doing and mentioned how proud he was to have of of the 22 national clinics in his electorate of Bennelong.

Looking Ahead

The visit to HHMP during Women’s Health Week serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need to address women’s health issues with compassion and dedication. By highlighting the work being done at the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic, Ged Kearney and Jerome Laxale MP have brought attention to a critical area of healthcare that requires continued support and investment.

As Women’s Health Week comes to a close, we would like to recognise the many women in our community and wish them the best of health. We would also like to recognise the many wonderful and committed health practitioners that work from HHMP and provide support to these women on a daily basis.

For more information about the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic at Hunters Hill Medical Practice, please see our endometriosis and pelvic pain specific page or complete our online questionnaire for one of our nurses to call you back. Otherwise please email us clinic@hhmp.com.au or call 9817 2080 . You can also reach out online to various women’s health initiatives, through their website or reach out to local health services. Let’s continue the conversation and support women’s health every week of the year.

Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain present complex challenges that require a multifaceted approach to treatment. The HHMP Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain clinic is part of the Commonwealth Government National Plan for Endometriosis where multiple Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics have been funded to bring such care to patients in their communities.

The HHMP team is dedicated to providing sensitive and up to date care for patients with endometriosis and pelvic pain. As a multidisciplinary practice, different clinicians collaborate as a team—comprising doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, psychologists, gynaecologists, endocrinologists and other relevant specialists. This multidisciplinary model allows us to address the diverse needs of our patients through a combination of medical, nursing, and allied health interventions to best suit their needs and medical conditions.

The Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia National Seminar

The Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia‘s national seminar is a premier event that brings together experts from various fields to share the latest research, advancements, and techniques in the management of pelvic pain and endometriosis. For our team from HHMP, attending this seminar was an opportunity to stay at the forefront of these evolving fields.

Attending the seminar also allowed the team to learn from the experience of others. We were able to meet and discuss the clinic workflow and refine these for the HHMP patients. As the HHMP Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic moves forward and continues to grow, the team remain dedicated to leveraging the insights gained to improve patient outcomes.

Patient Benefits

If you suspect you have endometriosis or pelvic pain and you would like to know how we can help, please see our endometriosis and pelvic pain specific page or complete our online questionnaire for one of our nurses to call you back. Otherwise please email us clinic@hhmp.com.au or call 9817 2080

A recent US study followed nearly half a million women for 12 years. 79,000 women had been diagnosed with endometriosis at an average age of 36, and 372,000 age-matched controls without endometriosis. It has revealed a significant connection between endometriosis and a heightened risk of ovarian cancer.

The worse the endometriosis the higher the risk

The findings, led by researchers from the University of Utah, indicate that women with endometriosis are over four times more likely to develop ovarian cancer compared to those without the condition. Notably, women with severe subtypes of endometriosis, such as deep infiltrating endometriosis and ovarian endometriomas, face an almost 10-fold increased risk.

Cause is multifactorial

The exact mechanisms linking endometriosis to ovarian cancer remain unclear, but is thought to be multifactorial. Researchers suggest a potential genetic predisposition and overlapping hormonal, immunological, and inflammatory markers

Next Steps

Given these findings, women with endometriosis, particularly those with severe subtypes, may benefit from counselling regarding their ovarian cancer risk. Additionally, for women who have completed childbearing or have alternative fertility options, more definitive surgical interventions might be worth considering.

This research underscores the importance of targeted screening and prevention strategies for women with endometriosis to better manage and mitigate their elevated risk of ovarian cancer.

If you suspect you have endometriosis or pelvic pain and you would like to know how we can help, please see our endometriosis and pelvic pain specific page or complete our online questionnaire for one of our nurses to call you back. Otherwise please email us clinic@hhmp.com.au or call 9817 2080

Resources:

The study: Endometriosis Typology and Ovarian Cancer Risk 

JAMA Editorial: New Insights into Endometriosis Subtypes and Ovarian Cancer Risk 

Endometriosis is a complex and challenging condition that affects countless women around the world. In Australia, 1 in 7 women live with endometriosis, many without even being aware, thinking painful periods and pelvic pain are “normal.”

While medical interventions play a crucial role in managing endometriosis, we must recognize the powerful influence that food choices can have on symptom severity.

Although there is no universal dietary pattern for the management of endometriosis, emerging studies show the intricate relationship between certain nutrients and symptom reduction, as well as improving overall well-being.

Here are three nutrients to get you started:

Anti-Inflammatory Foods:

Given that endometriosis demonstrates a state of chronic inflammation, anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the severity of pain symptoms. Having a diet rich in wholesome foods, including wholegrain carbohydrates, lean proteins, colorful vegetables, and fruit, will provide anti-inflammatory nutrients. On the other hand, minimizing pro-inflammatory nutrients such as saturated fats, alcohol, and simple sugars can help alleviate symptoms.

Fiber

Fiber can help remove excess estrogen from the body, which can reduce inflammation, support a healthy gut microbiota, maintain bowel regularity, and decrease endometriosis growth. Aiming for as many plant-based fiber-rich foods in your diet as possible will support your endometriosis management. Try simple habits like adding 2 cups of salad vegetables to all lunch and dinner meals.

Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to have a protective effect in managing endometriosis symptoms, particularly pelvic pain. Our bodies can’t produce omega-3 acids, so it is crucial to consume them through diet or supplemental form. Omega-3s decrease prostaglandins, which elevate abdominal fluid and contribute to the mechanism of pain in endometriosis. Are you eating salmon, sardines, chia seeds, or walnuts for the omega-3 benefits?

If you, or someone you know, is suffering from endometriosis, reach out and seek support from a dietitian. It could be beneficial to help reduce and manage symptoms.

The above post was created by Tatiana Bedikian, Dietitian from Body Fusion who is part of our endometriosis clinic team.

Endometriosis Clinic

If you suspect you have endometriosis or pelvic pain and you would like to know how we can help, please see our endometriosis and pelvic pain specific page or complete our online questionnaire for one of our nurses to call you back. Otherwise please email us clinic@hhmp.com.au or call 9817 2080

Wednesday 20th of March 2024, 6:30-8:30pm at Hunters Hill Medical Practice, 6 Ryde Road, Hunters Hill NSW

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. 1 in 7 women in Australia live with Endometriosis, many without even being aware: thinking painful periods and pelvic pain are “normal”. Endometriosis is also the leading cause of infertility unless addressed early.

The Hunters Hill Medical Practice Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic offers a comprehensive treatment approach to Endometriosis and pelvic pain with: GPs, physiotherapists, dieticians, gynaecologists, fertility specialists, psychologists and endocrinologists.

Education for staff and patients has always been highly valued at HHMP. This free education evening aims to support women and families living with Endometriosis.

Presenters:

Dr Pooja Rastogi, GP
Amanda Patterson, Clinical Psychologist
Tatiana Bedikian, Dietitian
Monica Marcos, Physiotherapist
Dr I-Ferne Tan, Fertility Specialist

We kindly ask for you to register for this free event.

Light supper provided.

To register please scan the QR code

In a significant stride towards enhancing endometriosis and pelvic pain care for local patients and staying at the forefront of medical advancements, three of our dedicated clinic doctors (Dr Badr, Dr Ozen, Dr Rastogi) and our women’s health physiotherapist (Monica) attended the 2023 Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia Conference held in Adelaide last weekend. This national event brought together professionals from around Australia and New Zealand, all focused on deepening their understanding of pelvic pain and endometriosis, with the ultimate goal of better supporting patients at our GP led pelvic pain and endometriosis clinic.

Exploring the Conference

The Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia Conference provided an invaluable opportunity for the team to delve into the latest research, treatments, and insights surrounding pelvic pain and endometriosis. These conditions affect millions of individuals worldwide, often leading to chronic discomfort and diminished quality of life. By attending this conference, our team demonstrated a strong commitment to staying informed about the most recent developments in the field, ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Endometriosis is a challenging condition to diagnose, and it may take several years before a woman receives a proper diagnosis. A gynaecologist may be involved and will perform a physical exam and take a detailed medical history to evaluate the symptoms. An ultrasound, MRI, hysteroscopy (uterine camera) or laparoscopy (Intra-abdominal camera) may also be used to visualize the endometrial tissue and diagnose the condition.

There is no cure for endometriosis, but several treatment options are available to manage the symptoms. Pain relief medication such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal therapy may be prescribed to manage the pain. Hormonal therapy such as oral contraceptives or GnRH agonists can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce endometrial growth.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the endometrial tissue growths. A hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus, may be recommended in cases where the patient does not wish to have children or has not responded to other treatments.

Hunters Hill Medical Practice Team

The GP team will be supported by specialists, Dr Cherynne Johansson (Gynaecologist and laproscopic and robotic surgeon),  Dr May Wong (Gastroenterologist), Dr Matt Kim (Gastroenterologist), Prof Matt Rickard (Colorectal Surgeon), Dr Henry Cheung (Colorectal Surgeon), Dr Thaw Dar Htet (endocrinologist) and Dr Jeff Ahn (endocrinologist). The allied health team working from Hunters Hill Medical Practice also has excellent skills to support this with physiotherapists, psychologists and dietitian. This is a comprehensive group of practitioners to have at your local general practice, that is able to address your endometriosis and pelvic pain at all levels, diagnosis, treatment, surgery, weight management, Bowel related issues etc.

Hunters Hill Medical Practice Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic

The Hunters Hill Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic is now seeing patients. To book in, please call 02 9817 2080 and leave a message with your details for our clinic nurse to contact you.