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Women's health in Rutherford: what your GP can help with
From contraception and pregnancy to menopause and screening, here is how a women's health GP can support you at every stage of life.
Women's health needs change through every stage of life, and a GP is often the best place to start. At Rutherford Doctors, a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice serving Rutherford, Aberglasslyn, Telarah and the wider Maitland area, our female GPs include Dr Zahraa Alassaf, Dr Comfort Ogidi, Dr Maryia Badshah, Dr Sharon Liu and Dr Agga Nabukeera. Here is an overview of the women's health care your GP can help with.
Contraception and family planning
Your GP can talk you through contraception options and help you choose what suits your health and lifestyle. Options include the contraceptive pill, injections and long-acting reversible contraception (LARC), such as hormonal IUDs (for example Mirena) and contraceptive implants (for example Implanon). Dr Zahraa has a special interest in Mirena and Implanon insertion.
Planning a pregnancy
A pre-pregnancy check can cover folic acid, vaccinations, medicines, lifestyle and any existing health conditions, so you can start your pregnancy feeling prepared.
Pregnancy and postnatal care
Your GP can confirm your pregnancy, arrange early tests and help you plan your pregnancy care. After birth, GPs provide postnatal check-ups for you and your baby, including support with feeding, recovery and emotional wellbeing.
Periods and pelvic health
Heavy, painful or irregular periods are common reasons to see a GP. Your GP can look into the cause and talk through options to manage symptoms.
Menopause
Hot flushes, night sweats, sleep changes, mood changes and vaginal dryness are common around perimenopause and menopause. Your GP can talk through ways to manage symptoms, including lifestyle options and treatments, and look after your long-term heart and bone health.
Screening and preventive health
- Cervical screening every five years for women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74
- BreastScreen NSW free screening mammograms every two years for women aged 50 to 74, with women aged 40 and over also eligible
- Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes checks
- Bone health checks as you get older
- Skin checks
Mental health and wellbeing
Stress, anxiety, low mood and postnatal depression are common, and support is available. Your GP can listen, talk through options and, if appropriate, prepare a mental health treatment plan.
Booking with a female GP in Rutherford
Women's health consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. When you book online through HotDoc you can choose your GP, or call reception on (02) 4061 7981. For longer conversations, such as LARC insertion or menopause, ask for a longer appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a female GP?
Yes. Choose Dr Zahraa, Dr Comfort, Dr Maryia, Dr Sharon or Dr Agga when you book online, or ask reception.
Are Mirena and Implanon insertions bulk billed?
The consultation is bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients. The device itself is usually bought separately with a script, and some consumables may attract a fee. Reception will confirm costs first.
Do I need a referral for a mammogram?
No. BreastScreen NSW screening mammograms do not need a referral. Your GP can help if you have breast symptoms.
Sources: BreastScreen NSW; National Cervical Screening Program; Healthy Bones Australia.
This article is general health information written by the Rutherford Doctors team. It has not been written or reviewed by our GPs and is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
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