Women’s health needs are diverse and evolve throughout life, from adolescence through reproductive years to menopause and beyond. At Rutherford Doctors, we provide comprehensive, confidential, and compassionate healthcare tailored specifically to women. We understand the importance of having a trusted medical professional you can talk to openly about sensitive issues. Our dedicated team, including experienced Women’s Health GP Rutherford doctors, offers a full spectrum of services in a supportive and respectful environment.
We are committed to preventative care, early detection, and effective management of women’s health conditions. Partnering with a regular Women’s Health GP Rutherford ensures you receive continuous, personalised care focused on your unique needs and well-being at every stage of life.
The Central Role of Your GP in Women’s Health
Your General Practitioner (GP) is ideally positioned to manage your overall health, including aspects specific to women. A Women’s Health GP Rutherford at our clinic provides holistic care, considering your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. They serve as your primary point of contact for:
- Preventative Screening: Cervical screening, breast checks, cardiovascular risk assessments.
- Reproductive and Sexual Health: Contraception, family planning, STI screening, pregnancy care, menopause management.
- Management of Gynaecological Issues: Period problems, pelvic pain, PCOS, endometriosis investigation.
- Mental Health Support: Addressing anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health concerns.
- Chronic Disease Management: Osteoporosis prevention, diabetes care, weight management.
- Lifestyle Advice: Nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation.
- Referrals: Connecting you with gynaecologists, obstetricians, or other specialists when needed.
Building a long-term relationship with your Women’s Health GP Rutherford fosters trust and ensures continuity of care tailored to your life journey.
Cervical Screening Test (Previously Pap Smear)
Regular cervical screening is a vital preventative measure against cervical cancer. Australia’s National Cervical Screening Program has transitioned from 2-yearly Pap smears to a 5-yearly Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test for women aged 25 to 74. HPV is a common infection that causes most cervical cancers. The new test detects HPV presence, allowing for earlier identification and management of risks.
What to Expect: The procedure itself feels similar to the previous Pap smear. Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford or practice nurse will gently insert a speculum into the vagina and use a small brush to collect cells from the cervix. The sample is sent to a lab to test for HPV. If HPV is detected, further tests on the same sample (liquid-based cytology) or follow-up investigations may be required.
It’s crucial to attend screening even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, as the vaccine doesn’t cover all HPV types that can cause cancer. Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford can advise on your screening schedule and discuss any concerns you may have.
Breast Health Awareness and Checks
While routine screening mammograms are typically recommended for women aged 50-74 (available free through BreastScreen Australia), being breast aware at all ages is important. This means knowing the normal look and feel of your breasts and seeing your doctor promptly if you notice any changes, such as:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
- Changes in breast size or shape.
- Nipple discharge or changes (e.g., inversion).
- Skin changes (dimpling, puckering, redness, rash).
- Persistent breast pain.
Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford can perform clinical breast examinations, teach you breast awareness techniques, and provide referrals for mammograms or further investigations if needed.
Contraception and Family Planning
Choosing the right contraception is a personal decision based on your health, lifestyle, and family planning goals. Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford provides confidential counselling on all available options, helping you make an informed choice. Methods available include:
- Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): Highly effective methods requiring infrequent action.
- Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Hormonal (Mirena®, Kyleena®) or Copper IUDs inserted into the uterus, lasting 5+ years.
- Contraceptive Implant (Implanon NXT®): A small rod inserted under the skin of the arm, lasting up to 3 years.
- Hormonal Methods:
- Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (‘The Pill’): Taken daily.
- Progestogen-Only Pill (Mini-Pill): Taken daily.
- Vaginal Ring (NuvaRing®): Inserted monthly.
- Contraceptive Injection (Depo-Provera®): Given every 12 weeks.
- Barrier Methods: Condoms (male and female), diaphragms.
- Permanent Methods: Tubal ligation (female sterilisation), vasectomy (male sterilisation) – requires referral.
- Emergency Contraception: Available if regular contraception fails or wasn’t used.
We also offer pre-conception counselling for women planning a pregnancy, discussing healthy lifestyle choices, folic acid supplementation, and relevant screening tests. Discuss your needs with a Women’s Health GP Rutherford to find the best fit.
Pregnancy Care: Shared Care and Postnatal Support
Congratulations if you are planning or expecting a baby! Many of our GPs offer GP Obstetric Shared Care, allowing you to share your pregnancy care between your trusted Women’s Health GP Rutherford and the hospital or obstetrician. This provides continuity of care close to home.
Our pregnancy care services include:
- Confirmation of pregnancy and initial advice.
- Early pregnancy screening tests (blood tests, dating scans).
- Ongoing antenatal check-ups as part of a shared care arrangement.
- Management of common pregnancy-related issues.
- Postnatal checks for mother and baby (typically around 6 weeks postpartum).
- Breastfeeding support and advice.
- Screening and support for postnatal depression and anxiety.
Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford is a key support throughout your pregnancy journey and the transition to parenthood.
Managing Menstrual Issues
Problematic periods can significantly impact quality of life. If you experience heavy bleeding, painful periods, irregular cycles, or other menstrual concerns, consult your Women’s Health GP Rutherford. We can investigate potential causes, such as:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal condition causing irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth.
- Endometriosis: Where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and sometimes infertility.
- Fibroids: Non-cancerous growths in the uterus.
- Thyroid Disorders: Can affect menstrual regularity.
Management options may include lifestyle changes, hormonal treatments (like the pill or hormonal IUDs), pain relief medication, or referral to a gynaecologist for further assessment or procedures. Don’t suffer in silence; seek help from your Women’s Health GP Rutherford.
Menopause Management: Navigating the Change
Menopause, the natural cessation of periods, typically occurs between 45 and 55. The transition (perimenopause) can bring various symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels. Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford can help you manage symptoms like:
- Hot flushes and night sweats.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Mood changes, anxiety, or irritability.
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
- Changes in libido.
- Urinary changes.
We offer personalised advice on lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, stress management) and discuss treatment options, including:
- Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT / HRT): Effectively manages moderate to severe symptoms. Your GP will discuss the benefits and risks based on your individual health profile.
- Non-Hormonal Treatments: For specific symptoms like vaginal dryness or mood changes.
- Bone Health: Menopause increases osteoporosis risk. We provide screening (bone density scans) and advice on calcium, vitamin D, and preventative measures.
A dedicated Women’s Health GP Rutherford can guide you through this transition with supportive care.
Sexual Health Services
We provide confidential screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Regular STI checks are recommended for sexually active individuals, especially when changing partners. We also offer a safe space to discuss concerns related to:
- Libido (sex drive).
- Painful intercourse (dyspareunia).
- Contraception needs.
- General sexual well-being.
Your privacy and comfort are paramount when discussing these sensitive issues with your Women’s Health GP Rutherford.
Mental Health and Well-being
Women’s mental health can be influenced by hormonal changes, life events, and societal pressures. We provide support for:
- Anxiety and Depression.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
- Perinatal mental health (anxiety or depression during pregnancy or postnatally).
- Stress management.
- Body image concerns.
Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford can offer counselling, develop Mental Health Care Plans (allowing subsidised access to psychologists), prescribe medication if appropriate, and connect you with other support services.
Preventative Health Checks for Women
Beyond cervical and breast screening, preventative care includes:
- Heart Health Checks: Assessing cardiovascular risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
- Weight Management: Advice and support for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Bone Density Screening: Assessing osteoporosis risk, particularly post-menopause.
- Immunisations: Ensuring you are up-to-date with vaccines like HPV, influenza, and whooping cough (especially important during pregnancy).
- Skin Checks: Regular checks for skin cancer.
Discuss your preventative health needs with your Women’s Health GP Rutherford.
Why Choose Rutherford Doctors for Women’s Health?
We are committed to providing exceptional women’s healthcare:
- Experienced GPs: Doctors (including female GPs, please inquire about availability if preferred) with a special interest and expertise in women’s health.
- Comprehensive Care: A wide range of services addressing needs across the lifespan.
- Confidential & Respectful Environment: We ensure your privacy and comfort.
- Holistic Approach: Considering your physical, mental, and social well-being.
- Continuity of Care: Building a trusting relationship with your dedicated Women’s Health GP Rutherford.
- Local Convenience: Accessible healthcare in the Rutherford community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Women’s Health
- Q: Do I need a referral to see a GP for women’s health issues?
- A: No, a referral is not needed to consult with one of our GPs for any women’s health concerns.
- Q: Can I request a female doctor?
- A: Yes, we have female GPs available. Please mention your preference when booking your appointment.
- Q: How often should I have a Cervical Screening Test?
- A: For most women aged 25-74, screening is recommended every 5 years if your results are normal. Your Women’s Health GP Rutherford will advise based on your history.
- Q: Are consultations confidential?
- A: Absolutely. All consultations and your medical records are strictly confidential.
Take Charge of Your Health
Prioritise your well-being by scheduling regular check-ups and addressing any health concerns promptly. The dedicated team at Rutherford Doctors is here to support you with expert women’s healthcare.
Contact us today to book an appointment with a Women’s Health GP Rutherford:
- Call Us: (02) 4061 7981
- Visit Us: E5-7, 1 Hillview Street, Rutherford, NSW 2320
- Book Online Now
