Episode 43: Fibroids
Gynaecology Melissa Acreman Gynaecology Melissa Acreman

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!

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Episode 42: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Gynaecology Melissa Acreman Gynaecology Melissa Acreman

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!

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Episode 40: Endometrial Cancer Part 2
Gynaeoncology, Gynaecology Melissa Acreman Gynaeoncology, Gynaecology Melissa Acreman

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.

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Episode 38: Endometrial hyperplasia
Gynaecology Melissa Acreman Gynaecology Melissa Acreman

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!

 

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Episode 37: Post-menopausal Bleeding
Gynaecology Melissa Acreman Gynaecology Melissa Acreman

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.

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