Complex Women’s Health Concerns

March 26, 2026

Supporting Women Through Chronic, Complex, and Poorly Understood Conditions

Women's health encompasses far more than routine check-ups, contraception and cervical screening. For many women, living with complex women's health conditions means years of dismissed symptoms, incomplete diagnoses, and a feeling that their concerns aren't being taken seriously.

The reality is that women's bodies are still significantly under-researched compared to men's, and conditions that disproportionately affect women - such as endometriosis, lichen sclerosus, and PMDD, have historically been minimised, misattributed to stress or anxiety, or simply left unexplored. A woman in Australia waits an average of seven to ten years to receive a diagnosis of endometriosis. Many women with PMDD are told their symptoms are "just PMS." Lichen sclerosus is routinely misdiagnosed for years.

But awareness is growing, and so too is the expectation that women's health concerns, however complex or sensitive, deserve thorough investigation and genuine answers. From vulval and vaginal conditions to hormonal disorders, pelvic pain, perinatal mental health, and the often-overlooked challenges of menopause after cancer, the breadth of what falls under "women's health" is vast.

Here we outline some of the more complex women's health concerns - what they are, why they matter, and how an experienced GP can help.

Our women's health clinic spans all stages of life, from pre-teen to post-menopausal and every age in between. 

Vulval, Vaginal and Bladder Health

Many women experience symptoms affecting the vulva, vagina or bladder that they find difficult or embarrassing to raise, including itching, burning, pain, discharge, dryness, or urinary symptoms. These concerns are common, they are valid, and they are very much something a GP can help with.

Conditions in this area include vulvodynia (chronic vulval pain), vaginal atrophy (particularly common after menopause or cancer treatment), recurrent thrush, bacterial vaginosis, and recurrent urinary tract infections. A careful assessment and accurate diagnosis makes an enormous difference to treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Learn more about vulval health. 

Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulval and perianal area. It can cause significant discomfort including intense itching, pain, skin thinning, and changes in skin architecture, and is frequently misdiagnosed or left untreated for years. With appropriate management, including topical treatments and ongoing monitoring, many women experience significant relief and a reduction in long-term complications.

Menopause After Cancer

Women who have been through cancer treatment, or who have been advised they have contraindications to conventional hormone replacement therapy, often find themselves navigating menopause with very little support. Chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical treatments can trigger sudden or early menopause, bringing with it significant symptoms that profoundly affect quality of life.

The question of whether hormone therapy is safe after cancer is complex and nuanced, and the answer is not always a simple no. For many women, there are options worth exploring - whether that is certain forms of HRT where evidence supports their use, non-hormonal medications to manage hot flushes and mood, vaginal oestrogen for localised symptoms, or lifestyle and complementary strategies. Treatment recommendations can be made that are aligned with your individual cancer history.

Learn more about our Menopause Clinic 

PMS and PMDD

Most women experience some degree of premenstrual symptoms, but for some, the days or weeks before their period bring debilitating mood changes, anxiety, depression, rage, or physical symptoms that significantly disrupt their relationships, work, and daily life. This is often due to a recognised medical condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).

PMDD is distinct from general PMS and requires specific assessment and management. Treatment options include targeted nutritional and lifestyle strategies, hormonal approaches to stabilise the cycle, and in some cases, antidepressant medication used cyclically or continuously. Many women find that having their experience validated and properly treated is transformative.

Learn more about our Menstrual Disorders Clinic

Postnatal Depression and Perinatal Mental Health

The period following childbirth can be one of the most emotionally vulnerable times in a woman's life. Postnatal depression affects approximately one in five Australian mothers, and it often goes unrecognised, partly because new mothers are under enormous pressure to appear to be coping, and partly because the symptoms can be subtle and develop gradually.

Postnatal depression is not a reflection of your love for your baby or your ability as a mother. It is a medical condition with effective treatments. GP’s can provide a safe and non-judgmental space to talk honestly about how you are feeling, and support you with a range of options from counselling and psychological support to medication where needed. Care can also be provided during pregnancy for women with a history of perinatal mental health concerns.

More on our postnatal services here. 

Endometriosis and PCOS: Managing Complex Hormonal Conditions with Confidence

Endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are two of the most common and most undertreated conditions in women's health. Both can profoundly impact fertility, pain levels, hormonal balance, weight, mood, and long-term health.

Endometriosis affects approximately one in nine Australian women and takes an average of seven to ten years to diagnose. PCOS affects up to one in five women and has implications well beyond reproductive health, including increased risks of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

GP’s can help with thorough investigation, clear explanation of your diagnosis, discussion of management options (medical, surgical, and lifestyle-based) and ongoing support to help you live well despite these conditions. You do not need to simply "put up with" the symptoms.

Chronic Pelvic Pain

Chronic pelvic pain - defined as persistent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis lasting six months or more - is one of the most complex and frequently under-investigated presentations in women's health. It may be related to endometriosis, adenomyosis, pelvic floor dysfunction, bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis, bowel conditions, nerve pain, or a combination of several factors.

Because its causes are often multifactorial, chronic pelvic pain requires a thorough, systematic approach. GP’s can start with a detailed assessment and where appropriate, coordinate care with gynaecologists, pelvic floor physiotherapists, pain specialists, and other allied health professionals. Pain that has been dismissed or unexplained for years can, in many cases, be significantly improved with the right support.

Fitting and Removing Contraceptive Devices (Coils)

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) including both hormonal (Mirena, Kyleena) and copper (non-hormonal) options are highly effective forms of long-acting reversible contraception. They can also be used therapeutically to manage heavy periods and endometriosis symptoms.

Many GP’s are experienced in both the fitting and removal of intrauterine devices, and some GP’s have unique expertise in complex IUD removals where the device has become difficult to locate or remove. Complex removals may be required if strings are not visible, if the device has shifted position, or if previous removal attempts have been unsuccessful elsewhere.

IUD procedures can feel daunting, and caring GP’s take time to ensure you are well-informed, comfortable, and supported throughout. Pain management options can be discussed prior to the procedure.

Book an Appointment

If you have been living with complex women’s health symptoms that haven't been properly addressed, or if you simply want a thorough and compassionate review of your women's health, we invite you to make an appointment at Robina Town Medical Centre.

Dr Colinette Margerison is consulting from our Robina Town Centre practice in June 2026 and has additional training and unique expertise in complex women’s health concerns like those outlined in this article. She visits our practice 2-3 times each year.

We also have a number of female GP’s with unique expertise in women’s health:

Robina Town Centre Practice:

Easy T Centre practice:

We are here to help. Phone our friendly Reception team for more information.

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