Gynaecology
You deserve the best when it comes to gynaecology and women’s health.
Looking for a top private gynaecologist in Melbourne? You’ve come to the right place. Our specialist gynaecologist, Dr Claire Francis, is a leader in the field.
Specialist gynaecology services
We provide a full range of women’s health services in Melbourne, including laparoscopy surgery. At MOGS, you can rest assured you’ll always be treated by an experienced female gynaecologist – either Dr Claire herself or one of our trusted consultant gynaecologists.
Pelvic pain, endometriosis and adenomyosis
Persistent pelvic pain PPP (chronic pelvic pain) is common. It is estimated that about one in five women in Australia will experience this sort of pain. There are many different causes of PPP. These include:
- Period pain,
- Endometriosis
- Adenomyosis.
Dr Claire Francis is skilled and experienced at investigating and treating these conditions. She will listen to your symptoms, understand the impact of these on your life and take a detailed medical history.
She will then arrange some investigations and discuss treatment options with you
For more information on PPP, endometriosis and adenomyosis follow this link https://www.pelvicpain.org.au/
Heavy or abnormal periods (heavy menstrual bleeding HMB)
Heavy or abnormal periods can be associated with discomfort and / or pain and often adversely impact one’s quality and enjoyment of life.
It is important to see medical advice if you suffer from heavy or abnormal periods and not to leave it as something that you think you have to put up with or will do later.
The possible causes of heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding are many and varied. When you make the appointment to see Dr Claire Francis, she will discuss with you any symptoms, bleeding and pain patterns, your medical history and any other symptoms you notice as occurring at the same time. It is important to keep a detailed record and bring this along with you.
The causes can include fibroids, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, cancers, blood clotting and other disorders and a range of other possibilities.
The treatment options will depend on what is the cause of the heavy or abnormal bleeding and could include surgery (ie a myomectomy which is where fibroids are removed, or a hysterectomy (see below) and others.
Laparoscopy
A laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) is an operation used to look inside your pelvis. A thin telescope is inserted through a tiny cut in your belly button to help us examine and operate inside your pelvis without making large cuts. Laparoscopy is mostly performed as a day procedure under general anaesthetic.
Laparoscopy gives patients a number of advantages over open surgery (laparotomy or larger cut):
- Faster recovery
- Less pain
- Smaller scars
- Less risk of DVT and infection
Dr Claire Francis is an experienced laparoscopic surgeon. She completed her fellowship years performing laparoscopic surgery in the UK and in Adelaide. Conditions treated by laparoscopy include period pain, endometriosis, fibroids, heavy periods and adenomyosis.
https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Laparoscopy-pamphlet.pdf
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a procedure where a woman’s uterus is removed – sometimes also with the ovaries. It is a commonly performed operation (some 32,000 procedures each year in Australia). A hysterectomy does not trigger menopause unless the ovaries are removed at the same time.
Women may choose to have a hysterectomy to treat many benign conditions including heavy periods, pelvic pain, fibroids and prolapse.
There are different ways to do a hysterectomy, Dr Claire Francis mostly undertakes laparoscopic hysterectomies.
https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Hysterectomy-pamphlet.pdf
Hysteroscopy, curette and endometrial ablation
A hysteroscopy is a day procedure mostly performed under general anaesthetic. It is used to investigate and treat abnormal periods. It may be performed to treat endometrial polyps, fibroids, heavy periods or after miscarriage.
An endometrial ablation may be performed at the same time as a hysteroscopy. It involves burning the lining of the uterus to treat heavy periods.
https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Hysteroscopy-pamphlet.pdf
Insertion of IUD/Mirena
Is a common procedure performed at our clinic for women requiring contraception and / or as a treatment for a range of gynaecological conditions. An intrauterine device is a small device that is inserted into the uterus (womb). There are 2 types in Australia:
The Copper IUD – is a small plastic and copper T-shaped device, which constantly releases a very small amount of copper into the uterus from its stem. The release of the copper prevents the sperm from fertilising the egg. It is designed to stay in place for up to 10 years and is a non-hormonal option for contraception. Women may experience heavier periods with a copper IUD.
The Progesterone IUD (Mirena/Kyleena) is a small plastic T-shaped device, which slowly releases progesterone into your uterus from its stem. The Mirena is designed to stay in place for 5 years.
https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/contraception/intra-uterine-device-iud
At an IUD Consultation:
IUDs are not suitable for everyone and medical advice should always be sought to determine which is the best contraception for you.
You will have a discussion about the IUD procedure, risks and side effects and have your questions answered. It is common to perform a pregnancy test and STI screening on the day. The procedure usually takes about 30 minutes.
Similar to a Cervical Screening Test, a speculum will gently, be inserted into the vagina so the cervix can be seen, and the IUD is then inserted into the uterus. You will be given time after the procedure to rest and make sure you feel fine to continue on with your day.
Following the Insertion of an IUD:
- Organise a lift home after your IUD insertion, in case you feel too uncomfortable to drive.
- Avoid sexual intercourse, tampons, swimming and baths for 48 hours to reduce the risk of infection.
- You may need a heat pack or simple pain relief to alleviate period like cramps in the first few days after insertion.
- Contact us if you have any concerns regarding side effects following insertion of an IUD.
- Keep a record of your insertion date, as it shouldn’t stay in longer than recommended.
Side Effects with a Mirena:
- With initial insertion, some patients have period like cramping which takes a few days to settle.
- Spotting or frequent bleeding is common in the first few months following insertion. By 6 months, 95% of users will have light bleeding or no bleeding at all.
- Women can experience, headaches, mood changes, tender breasts and other symptoms which need time to settle. It has not been shown to cause weight gain, but may increase hunger.
Contraception
Contraception can be a complex issue to navigate and its important you get the type that works for you and your needs. It is a highly personal decision. Depending on the type, contraception can be used to mitigate the risk of pregnancy but can also help moderate hormones which in turn can help relieve a range of health and menstrual symptoms. We will discuss your contraceptive history including previous side effects, medical illnesses and personal preference which may affect your choice of contraceptive and your needs looking forward whether you need permanent or temporary contraception.
Dr Claire Francis is also able to provide sterilisation/tubal ligation. It is a day procedure performed via laparoscopy under general anaesthetic.
https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/resources/contraception-fact-sheet
Cervical and endometrial polyps
Cervical and endometrial polyps are growths on the cervix and in the lining of the uterus. They are common and mostly benign. They can cause:
- Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse.
- Vaginal bleeding in between periods.
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause.
- Vaginal discharge of a white or yellow mucus
- Heavy periods
Diagnosis is made during examination and ultrasound. Most polyps are removed surgically and generally do not grow back. Some cervical polyps can be removed in the clinic. Others are removed during a hysteroscopy under general anaesthetic.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition of unknown cause. It is associated with problems such as irregular (usually less frequent) menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, obesity, infertility, depression and anxiety and the possible development of diabetes. Each woman will experience PCOS differently. Treatment for PCOS depends on the problems it is causing for each individual.
Dr Claire Francis will explain all treatment options to you as well as the long term risks for some women with PCOS. Dr Claire Francis will discuss with you how to best manage and prevent these complications.
Menopause
Menopause describes the time when you have not had a period for at least a year – As with most gynaecological conditions, it affects everyone differently. The average age most women in Australia go into menopause is 51 – some go into it much earlier and others later.
Symptoms may include
- Irregular periods
- Hot flushes, night sweats, feeling hot
- Vaginal changes such as dryness pain during sex
- Joint or muscle aches and pains
- Mood swings, such as low mood / depression, poor concentration, anxiety or irritability
- Poor or reduced libido
- Sleep disturbance
- Variations in appetite / slower metabolism
- Thinning hair
- Weight gain
- Skin changes a feeling of dry, crawling or itchy skin.
- Irritable bladder.
Whilst menopause is a normal physiologicaI experience, we recommend that you make an appointment to see Dr Claire Francis if your symptoms are interfering with your life, wellbeing, relationships and outlook in a way that is not sustainable, or you are younger than 40 years old.
There are ta variety of treatments we will discuss to relieve or mitigate the symptoms of menopause including lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and sleep therapies, medications, MHT and psychological support.
Fibroids
Fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths of the muscle of the uterus
We do not yet know exactly what causes fibroids but it is likely that genetic and hormonal factors influence their growth.
Many fibroids do not cause symptoms and may not require treatment.
Where symptoms are present, they will vary depending on the size, location and your overall health. Fibroids may be associated with heavy or prolonged periods, bleeding between periods, abdominal discomfort and/or fullness, pelvic pain, lower back pain, bladder symptoms, such as frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder, and bowel symptoms, such as constipation or excessive straining with bowel movements.
Fibroids can affect women who are trying to conceive. They may contribute to
- Infertility
- Miscarriage
- Complications during pregnancy
- Pain during intercourse
Treatment depends on the symptoms you are experiencing. Not all women with fibroids will need treatment. Sometimes it will just involve regular and careful monitoring.
Treatment options for fibroids include surgical and radiological procedures. Dr Claire Francis will go through all your treatment options in depth and help you make the right choice for you.
Fibroids and pregnancy:
Many women are diagnosed with fibroids in pregnancy and, for the most part, they do not cause any problems. However, pregnancy hormones can trigger fibroids to grow which may cause pain. The location of the fibroid may affect how the baby can be born. It may also make it more likely that the baby will not be head first or increase the risk of pre-term labour. The mode of delivery will depend on the size and location of the fibroids. Vaginal birth or having a caesarean is something we will talk about during your pregnancy. Fibroids will also increase the risk of an abnormal attachment of the placenta and a postpartum haemorrhage.
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/fibroids
Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are common growths of the ovaries. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant and can form in women of all ages. Most ovarian cysts will not be cancerous but they all need a confirmed diagnosis and regular monitoring or treatment as they can persist, grow, and cause pain and they can burst or rupture
Diagnosis is generally made with ultrasound. This will help us work out what type of ovarian cyst you have. Some cysts resolve on their own, but others require surgical (mostly laparoscopic) treatment
Dr Claire Francis
Dr Claire Francis is an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist located at the Epworth Freemasons Hospital in East Melbourne. She also works from St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne.
Dr Claire studied at Monash University in Melbourne and has also practised as a doctor in the United Kingdom and Papua New Guinea. She is an experienced gynaecologist with a special interest in laparoscopic surgery, and the management and treatment of pelvic pain and menstrual disorders.
Care philosophy
Dr Claire Francis understands that for many women, seeing a gynaecologist can be their first interaction with doctors specialising in women’s health and the hospital system. The journey can sometimes be daunting, but Dr Claire takes care to ensure lines of communication are always open. She ensures that women are given the time to raise all their questions, concerns and wishes for their gynaecological care. She believes there is no one size fits all to treatment options. She will take time to listen and to individualise your care to achieve the best results.
Why work with Claire
Claire is one of Melbourne’s best gynaecologists. She’s had many years of experience in in caring for women and their families in tertiary minimally invasive surgery, general gynaecology and obstetrics. She can provide you with skilled, safe and effective care in a collaborative, considered and compassionate environment. She has a strong respect for patient choice. She provides up to date medical information and guidance to assist women in making informed decisions about their own health. Dr Claire understands that many women prefer to see a female gynaecologist, so in the unlikely event she’s unable to see you, she’ll arrange for you to see one of MOGS’ trusted female gynaecologist consultants.