Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the womb) is present outside of the uterus. In Australia the condition affects just over 11% of women and girls. Endometriosis can present in different ways for different people and may include period pain, pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, fatigue, bowel and bladder symptoms and infertility. It is not normal to experience these symptoms. Dr Collings’s has completed further training through an AGES Fellowship and has worked with the Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis Unit in Melbourne in providing care for women with endometriosis.

Adenomyosis is a condition where tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the womb) is present inside to muscle wall of the uterus. It is a different condition to endometriosis. Adenomyosis can present in different ways which may include painful periods, pelvic pain, heavy and/or irregular periods and pain with intercourse. Adenomyosis can be difficult to diagnose. Treatment is dependent on symptoms, fertility desires and the individual circumstances of the person.

Pelvic pain is pain in the lower abdomen that interferes with the physical, emotional or social quality of life. Pelvic pain affects 1 in 5 women over their lifetime. There are many different causes of pelvic pain including endometriosis, adenomyosis, bladder pain syndrome, muscular pain and bowel causes. Dr Collings was awarded a research grant to conduct further study into pelvic pain focusing on endometriosis and bladder pain and the impact laparoscopy (key hole surgery) has on these conditions. She has presented at conferences talking on the topic and is a member of the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia. She provides a wholistic approach to the diagnosis and care of pelvic pain.

Fibroids are common, benign (non-cancerous) growths in the muscle layer of the uterus and affect 40-80% of women by 50years of age. Fibroids can cause abnormal bleeding including heavy bleeding, pressure symptoms, and can impact on fertility, depending on their size and location. Management is dependent on the presence of symptoms and needs to be tailored to the individual. Options may include observation, medical options or surgery. Dr Collings has completed specialised training in the surgical management of fibroids via an AGES Fellowship, including their removal via key hole surgery and via hysteroscopy (via the vagina).

Ovarian cysts are swellings on or in the ovaries and are very common. There are many different types of ovarian cysts. In many cases they do not cause symptoms however in some people they can cause pain in the abdomen, pressure and bloating. Treatment of ovarian cysts depends on a number of different factors, in some circumstances the cyst may be monitored with blood tests and ultrasounds and in other circumstances, such as a cyst that is growing larger or not resolving, surgery to remove the cyst may be recommended.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects close to 1 in 7 women and girls. Symptoms can be varied between different individuals and may include irregular periods, no periods, acne, excessive hair growth and weight gain. PCOS is also one of the most common causes of infertility in women. Effective treatments are available and can reduce symptoms as well as reducing the long-term risks of PCOS such as diabetes. There are also effective management options if you have PCOS and infertility including ovulation induction medications.

Colposcopy is a procedure performed in the office where a microscope is used to look at the cells of the cervix, vagina and vulva. It is performed if you have had an abnormal cervical screening test (previously called pap smears). It involves inserting a speculum into the vagina then a liquid called acetic acid (vinegar) and sometimes Lugols solution (iodine) is applied. These liquids show up any abnormal cells. A biopsy of any abnormal cells may be required. A colposcopy generally takes ten to twenty minutes to complete. The results of this biopsy takes a week to return and Dr Collings will discuss the management depending on your results and circumstances.