Episode 45: Syphilis in Pregnancy
In this episode of The Uterine Sound podcast, hosts Carla, Mel, and Anne dive into the history and current relevance of syphilis in the management of pregnancies. The discussion highlights a concerning resurgence of syphilis in Australia, particularly among women of reproductive age and Indigenous communities, with significant increases in congenital syphilis cases. The hosts detail the national strategic response to address rising rates, including updated antenatal screening guidelines aimed at reducing infections and protecting maternal and infant health. Tune in for a fascinating blend of history, science, and all you need to know in the management of syphilis in pregnancy.
Episode 44: Uterine Sarcoma
Join Anne, Mel, and Carla in this episode of The Uterine Sound as they dive into the critical topic of uterine leiomyosarcoma—an aggressive and rare cancer that can often be mistaken for benign fibroids. They break down the differences between these conditions, risk factors like ethnicity, age, and tamoxifen use, and why accurate diagnosis is so challenging. Tune in to learn about the latest on imaging techniques, signs to look for, and the complexities of treatment options for women at risk of this elusive malignancy!
Episode 43: Fibroids
In this episode of The Uterine Sound, hosts Carla, Anne, and Mel dive deep into the world of uterine fibroids, a condition affecting up to 80% of women. While these benign tumors may seem simple, their effects on fertility, daily life, and overall health are far from straightforward. The team unpacks the biology behind fibroid development, explores the risks and symptoms, and breaks down the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment, including medical and surgical options. Whether you're a healthcare professional or just curious, this episode provides a comprehensive and engaging look at fibroids!
Episode 42: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Welcome back to The Uterine Sound podcast! In this episode, we explore the common condition heavy menstrual bleeding through Mikayla, a 35-year-old patient grappling with the issue.
Join Carla, Mel, and Anne as they unravel what defines normal vs. heavy bleeding and the historical methods for quantifying it. Discover the causes of HMB using the PALM-COEIN system, from structural issues like fibroids to non-structural problems such as hormonal imbalances.
They break down the spectrum of treatments, from non-hormonal options like tranexamic acid and NSAIDs to hormonal therapies including the Mirena IUD and oral contraceptives. Plus, get the lowdown on surgical options like endometrial ablation and hysterectomy for those who need them.
With Mikayla’s results largely normal, our hosts offer practical guidance on choosing the right management strategy based on individual needs and fertility goals. Don’t miss this fast-paced, informative episode packed with actionable insights into managing heavy menstrual bleeding!
Episode 41: Evidence with Anne - Gynaeoncology
In this electrifying episode of The Uterine Sound podcast, hosts Carla Pecoraro, Mel Acreman, and Anne Woolfield dive into groundbreaking gynaecology oncology research that could transform patient care.
First, we unravel the mysteries of the PLCO study—“Effect of Screening on Ovarian Cancer Mortality.” This 2011 JAMA blockbuster pits CA125 and transvaginal ultrasound against routine care in a high-stakes battle for ovarian cancer mortality. With over 78,000 women in the mix, the results are eye-opening: while screening increased cancer diagnoses, it didn’t cut mortality rates. Plus, the fallout from false positives led to serious complications. Tune in to find out why this study could reshape how we think about ovarian cancer screening.
Next, the podcast heats up with the LACE trial—“Effect of Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy vs Total Abdominal Hysterectomy on Disease-Free Survival.” Published in 2017, this study compares laparoscopic hysterectomy to the traditional abdominal approach in treating stage 1 endometrial cancer. Discover how TLH stacks up against TAH in terms of disease-free survival and why TLH's benefits might make it the new gold standard for quicker recoveries and less post-op pain.
Get ready for a dynamic episode packed with crucial insights from these landmark trials. Whether you're a clinician or just curious, this episode delivers cutting-edge information that’s essential for understanding and improving gynaecological cancer care. Don’t miss out—this is a must-listen for anyone invested in women's health!
Episode 40: Endometrial Cancer Part 2
This week on The Uterine Sound, we're diving deep into the world of endometrial cancer. Meet Pamela, a 64-year-old with post-menopausal bleeding and a concerning endometrial thickness of 15mm. After a hysteroscopy and curettage, Pamela’s results reveal endometrioid adenocarcinoma.
Join us as we walk through Pamela's journey, from delivering the diagnosis and outlining the next steps to discussing staging and management strategies. We'll cover:
Breaking the News: How to approach delivering a cancer diagnosis with compassion and clarity.
Staging & Investigations: What tests are crucial before referring to the Gynecology Oncology team.
Surgical Options: The preferred surgical approach for endometrial cancer and the evolving role of lymph node evaluation.
Adjuvant Therapy: Decisions on whether Pamela needs additional treatment based on her cancer’s risk classification.
Follow-Up & Recurrence: Strategies for monitoring and managing potential recurrences, including when to consider advanced treatments.
Tune in to explore the complexities of managing endometrial cancer and gain insights into how treatment plans are tailored to individual cases.
Episode 39: Endometrial Cancer Part 1
In this eye-opening episode of The Uterine Sound podcast, hosts Carla, Mel & Anne tackle the rising tide of endometrial cancer. With rates surging due to factors like obesity and an ageing population, this episode sheds light on why it’s more important than ever to understand and address these trends.
Discover essential strategies for prevention, from making lifestyle changes like improving diet and exercise to leveraging hormonal contraceptives. The hosts also unravel the complexities of endometrial cancer classification and tackle the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of screening.
Tune in for a comprehensive exploration of endometrial cancer, complete with actionable insights and the latest research updates. Don’t miss this crucial discussion that promises to keep you informed and empowered.
Episode 38: Endometrial hyperplasia
Join Anne, Mel, and Carla as they delve into the mysteries of endometrial hyperplasia. Meet Tiana, a 30-year-old grappling with irregular bleeding and an unexpected diagnosis post-polypectomy. Is it a benign polyp? Not quite—it's endometrial hyperplasia! But what does that mean?
In this episode, we uncover the nitty-gritty of endometrial hyperplasia, from its ominous precursor status to endometrial cancer to its surprising risk factors. Learn how unopposed estrogen, obesity, and even genetic conditions like Lynch Syndrome can tip the balance. Discover why menopausal hormone therapy and medications like tamoxifen might inadvertently set the stage for this condition.
Anne, Mel, and Carla break down the diagnostic journey, and cut through the old classification system's confusion and unveil the simplified guidelines of today.
But wait—what about treatment? From expectant management to the nuanced world of progesterone therapies and the pivotal role of the Mirena, they explore options tailored to each patient's needs. Should Tiana opt for fertility preservation? Discover the challenging decisions and implications when managing atypical hyperplasia, where the stakes are higher and fertility hangs in the balance.
Join us for this episode packed with clinical insights, debunking myths, and empowering women to navigate the complexities of endometrial health. Whether you're a clinician, patient, or simply curious, this podcast episode promises to demystify and enlighten. Tune in to The Uterine Sound for all things O&G!
Episode 37: Post-menopausal Bleeding
Join Anne, Mel, and Carla, your hosts of The Uterine Sound podcast, as they dive into one of the most common yet concerning issues in gynaecology: post-menopausal bleeding. Discover why 10% of post-menopausal women experience this alarming symptom, and learn about the various causes—from benign polyps and atrophy to the rare but serious endometrial cancer. Through an engaging case study of Barbara, a 55-year-old woman facing this issue, the hosts provide expert insights into diagnosis, risk factors, and treatment options. Don’t miss this informative episode packed with essential knowledge and practical advice for anyone navigating post-menopausal health concerns.
Episode 36: Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia
Join hosts Carla, Mel, and Anne on this episode of "The Uterine Sound" as they unravel the complexities of Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia (GTN). Discover the fascinating world of these rare tumours, from the aggressive choriocarcinoma to the mysterious invasive mole. Learn about the critical follow-up care involving bhCG testing and explore the groundbreaking treatments that boast nearly 100% cure rates. The hosts also delve into the unique challenges of rarer forms like placental site trophoblastic tumour and epithelioid trophoblastic tumour. Whether you're studying for your RANZCOG exams or just curious about the latest in gyneacologic oncology, this episode is packed with intriguing insights and vital information. Don't miss out!
Episode 35: Gestational Trophoblastic Disease
Join hosts Mel, Carla, and Anne on this week's episode of The Uterine Sound Podcast as they delve into the fascinating and complex world of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease. In this episode, the team takes a deep dive into the nuances of complete and partial molar pregnancies, providing listeners with a thorough understanding of these unique early pregnancy complications.
With a blend of expert insights and compelling patient stories, the hosts explore the intricacies of diagnosis, the latest advancements in treatment, and the emotional journey of those affected. From understanding the initial symptoms and diagnostic findings to navigating the management and follow-up care, Mel, Carla, and Anne leave no stone unturned.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student, or simply curious about reproductive health, this episode promises to be both informative and engaging. Tune in to gain a richer understanding of Gestational Trophoblastic Disease and its impact on patients' lives. Don't miss out on this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion!
Episode 34: Evidence with Anne - Early Pregnancy
Join hosts Carla, Mel, and Anne as they delve into groundbreaking RANZCOG landmark trials on early pregnancy in this must-listen episode of the Uterine Sound podcast. Discover how they turn complex, landmark studies into bite-sized, exam-ready insights.
In this episode, the hosts break down major trials exploring treatments for recurrent miscarriage, including the effectiveness of low molecular weight heparin and aspirin, and compare medical versus surgical management of miscarriage. Learn how these studies influence current practices and what the latest evidence means for clinical decisions in obstetrics and gynaecology.
Perfect for busy professionals, this episode transforms dense medical research into practical knowledge you can digest on the go. Stay informed and up-to-date with the latest in O&G by tuning in, and connect with us on Instagram @theuterinesound or visit our website theuterinesound.com.
Episode 33: Atypical Ectopic Pregnancy
This week’s episode delves into the fascinating realm of rare ectopic pregnancies. While ectopic pregnancies are relatively uncommon, we'll explore those intriguing cases that deviate from the typical fallopian tube implantation. From CS scar ectopic to cervical, ovarian, cornual, and abdominal pregnancies, we'll uncover the diagnostic challenges, management complexities, and intriguing aspects of these unusual occurrences.
Discover why non-tubal ectopics are both rare and perilous, with significantly higher risks compared to their tubal counterparts. With each type, we'll delve into its distinct characteristics, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies. Whether it's the intricacies of diagnosing a CS scar ectopic or the complexities of managing an abdominal pregnancy, we'll provide insights into the latest guidelines and clinical practices.
Join us as we navigate through the diagnostic intricacies of these rare ectopic pregnancies, highlighting ultrasound findings, management options, and the importance of timely intervention. Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking to enhance your understanding or a curious listener intrigued by medical mysteries, this episode promises to captivate and enlighten.
Episode 32: Ectopic Pregnancy
Join us on The Uterine Sound podcast as we delve into the high-stakes world of ectopic pregnancies! Anne, Mel, and Carla guide you through the complexities of this condition, from its various presentations to its management options. Discover the surprising prevalence of ectopic pregnancies and the crucial signs to watch for. Dive into the realm of treatment choices, from expectant management to surgical and medical interventions like methotrexate. But beware of the risks and side effects along the way! With expert insights and practical advice, this episode promises to be a captivating journey through a critical topic in O&G.
Episode 31: Bleeding in Early Pregnancy
Join Carla, Mel, and Anne on The Uterine Sound podcast as they navigate the complexities of early pregnancy bleeding. Whether you work in the Emergency Department, General Practice or an Early Pregnancy Clinic (or you're a curious listener), this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity in the fog of early pregnancy complications.
Episode 30: Recurrent Miscarriage
In this captivating episode of The Uterine Sound podcast, hosts Carla, Mel, and Anne delve into the complexities of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL). They uncover the defining factors and prevalence rates of RPL. With a thorough examination of potential causes—from chromosomal abnormalities to uterine anomalies and beyond—the hosts leave no stone unturned. Join them as they navigate through investigations, treatment options, and even the latest research trials, offering invaluable insights and hope to couples grappling with RPL. Whether it's unravelling genetic mysteries or discussing the role of lifestyle changes, this episode provides a comprehensive guide for understanding and addressing recurrent pregnancy loss. Tune in to The Uterine Sound podcast for a journey through the complexities and possibilities of RPL.
Episode 29: Miscarriage
Join Anne, Mel, and Carla on The Uterine Sound podcast as they delve into the heart of O&G, providing essential insights on early pregnancy loss. Unveil the mysteries behind miscarriages, debunking myths and exploring the latest research. From chromosomal abnormalities to maternal health factors, discover the multifaceted causes. With engaging discussions on management options - expectant, medical, and surgical - listeners gain a comprehensive understanding. Plus, unravel post-miscarriage care and find solace in bereavement support resources. Tune in for an enlightening journey into women's health.
Episode 28: Placental Abruption
Tune in to The Uterine Sound podcast for a thrilling exploration of placental abruption! Join hosts Carla, Mel, and Anne as they unravel the mysteries behind this dramatic obstetric emergency. From defining the condition to dissecting real-life cases, dive into the world of maternal and fetal risks, clinical findings, and management strategies. Learn about risk factors, investigations, and the pathophysiology driving this phenomenon. If you're a healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights into a critical aspect of pregnancy care. Don't miss out - listen now on your favourite podcast platform!
Episode 27: Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Join hosts Anne, Mel, and Carla on The Uterine Sound podcast as they delve into the intricacies of Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP), formerly known as Obstetric Cholestasis. Unraveling the complexities of this condition, they explore its genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, shedding light on risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and management strategies. From understanding the pathophysiology to discussing treatment options and monitoring protocols, this episode equips listeners with comprehensive insights into tackling ICP effectively. Tune in to learn about the latest research, clinical guidelines, and practical approaches to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes.
Episode 26: Placenta Accreta Spectrum
Dive deep into the intricate world of placenta accreta spectrum in this episode of The Uterine Sound Podcast. Join hosts Mel, Carla and Anne as they explore the nuances of this condition, from its different subtypes to its underlying mechanisms and risk factors. Discover how advancements in diagnostic techniques such as ultrasound and MRI are revolutionizing the way we identify and manage placenta accreta spectrum. From the gold standard of caesarean hysterectomy to conservative approaches for fertility preservation, we unravel the complexities and challenges surrounding this increasingly prevalent obstetric complication. Don't miss out on essential insights and expert advice from our hosts as they navigate through the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of placenta accreta spectrum. Tune in now to stay informed and empowered!