Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Pregnancy care follows maternal health and the baby's development from early pregnancy to birth. Common concerns include anaemia, blood-pressure changes and changes in fetal growth.

A pregnancy is high risk when a maternal illness, pregnancy complication or concern about the baby calls for closer monitoring. The specific risk determines the follow-up and birth plan.

Gestational diabetes is raised blood glucose first diagnosed during pregnancy. It often causes no symptoms, but glucose control helps reduce risks to mother and baby.

Pregnancy-related hypertension can develop after 20 weeks. Pre-eclampsia involves additional organ problems; severe headache, visual changes or upper abdominal pain needs urgent assessment.

Abnormal uterine bleeding includes unusually heavy, prolonged or irregular periods and bleeding between periods. Causes include hormonal changes, fibroids and problems with the uterine lining.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the muscle of the uterus. Some cause heavy periods, pelvic pressure or fertility concerns, while others cause no symptoms.

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause painful periods, persistent pelvic pain and difficulty conceiving.

PMOS is a hormonal condition commonly involving irregular ovulation and signs of excess androgen, such as acne or increased facial hair. It can affect fertility and metabolic health.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs in or on an ovary. Many resolve naturally, but persistent or painful cysts need review; sudden severe pelvic pain needs urgent assessment.

Uterine and cervical disorders include polyps, changes in the uterine lining and cervical abnormalities. Unusual bleeding, discharge or abnormal screening results may prompt investigation.

Menstrual disorders include absent, infrequent, painful or unusually heavy periods. The bleeding pattern, age and hormonal health help distinguish possible causes.

The menopause transition may cause hot flushes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness and changes in periods. Any bleeding after menopause needs assessment.

Pelvic pain is discomfort in the lower abdomen that may involve reproductive organs, the bladder or the bowel. Its timing and associated symptoms help identify the source.

Vaginal and gynaecological infections may cause itching, unusual discharge or pelvic discomfort. Different infections require different treatment, and symptoms alone may not identify the cause.