Women’s Health – Geelong
- Breast checks
- Cervical screening test (which has replaced Pap smear)
- Cosmetic medicine
- Pre-pregnancy planning
- Pregnancy testing and advice
- Chronic disease management
- Contraception advice (including device insertion and removal)
- Family planning
- Fertility advice
- Contraceptive implant
- Mirena intrauterine implant
- Pregnancy care
- General care – regular health checkups
- Gynaecological treatments
- Immunisations
- Incontinence
- Iron deficiency
- Menopause management
- Menstrual disorders
- Mental health
- Sexual health screening
- Skin cancer checks
- Weight management
At our Geelong clinic, many of our GPs have a strong interest in women’s health across every stage of life. Women’s physical and emotional health needs can change with age, fertility, lifestyle and family responsibilities — which is why personalised, holistic care is so important.
Our GPs take the time to understand your individual circumstances and provide guidance that supports your overall wellbeing. We also have female GPs in Geelong and St Albans Clinic for those who prefer a female doctor.
We offer a range of women’s health services aimed at supporting preventive care, reproductive health, and general wellbeing. Several of our GPs have additional training in antenatal shared care, providing support throughout pregnancy in collaboration with local hospitals.
For women’s health assessments, advice or ongoing care, you can contact our Geelong clinic or book an appointment online.
Book an appointment with us today!
Nothing is more important to us than your health and comfort. We strive to provide quality and care to every member of the community.
Breast Cancer Screening Geelong
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women, so staying proactive with breast health is important. Regular self-checks can help you become familiar with what’s normal for you and make it easier to notice any changes such as lumps, thickened areas, discomfort, nipple changes or discharge.
At our Geelong clinic, your GP can perform a breast examination as part of a routine check-up and discuss any personal or family history that may influence your risk. Where appropriate, your GP can also arrange imaging referrals — such as mammography or ultrasound — to support a thorough assessment.
If you have noticed any changes or would like a breast health review, please contact our Geelong clinic or book an appointment online.
Pregnancy Care – Geelong
If you’re planning a pregnancy or believe you may be pregnant, your GP at our Geelong clinic can support you from the very beginning. Early GP visits help monitor your overall health and confirm your pregnancy. Your GP can also organise standard tests such as blood work and recommended ultrasounds.
Many people experience symptoms like nausea, tiredness or general discomfort in the early stages of pregnancy. Your GP can discuss safe options to help manage these symptoms. After birth, continuing regular check-ups is important for both your physical and emotional well-being, as well as your baby’s health.
What is Antenatal Care ?
Antenatal care involves routine health checks during pregnancy. Your GP provides care in the early stages — usually until around 15 weeks — before your pregnancy is transferred to a hospital team, such as midwives or obstetricians, for ongoing management. This approach allows you to maintain continuity of care with a GP who may already know you well and who can continue supporting you after your baby is born.
Who is suitable for antenatal care?
GP-led antenatal care is generally suitable for people with a low-risk pregnancy.
If any risk factors are identified — based on your medical history, current health, or conditions that arise during pregnancy — the hospital may become involved earlier. Your GP will discuss this with you and coordinate referrals as needed.
What appointments does antenatal care involve?
When pregnancy is first confirmed, your GP will typically arrange:
- Initial blood tests
- Early pregnancy scans
- Routine health checks
Around 15 weeks, you’ll be referred to the hospital of your choice, where you will see a midwife or obstetrician for continued pregnancy care.
Which Assure Health Clinics offers pregnancy care?
Antenatal care is available at our Assure Health Geelong clinic & Assure Health St Albans clinic .
Please contact our reception team or book online.
Contraceptive Implant Geelong
A contraceptive implant is a long-acting and reliable birth control option available at our Geelong clinic. The device is placed just under the skin of the upper arm using a small amount of local anaesthetic. It can also be removed easily whenever you choose, making it fully reversible. The implant releases a low, steady dose of etonogestrel and provides contraceptive protection for up to three years.
How does the contraceptive implant work?
The implant helps prevent pregnancy by:
- Stopping the release of an egg from the ovaries
- Changing cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the uterus
What are the common side effects from the contraceptive implant?
People using a contraceptive implant may experience:
- Irregular bleeding
- Lighter, absent, or infrequent periods
- Occasionally heavier bleeding
- Other possible effects may include headaches, acne, breast tenderness or mood changes.
What is the contraceptive implant insertion process?
The implant is often inserted within the first three days of the menstrual cycle, but it can be placed at other times if pregnancy is excluded.
What do I need to do on the day of insertion?
A pregnancy test is usually performed during your visit to ensure it’s safe to proceed.
What is the aftercare following contraceptive implant insertion?
- After inserting the device, the insertion point is closed with steri-strips and waterproof dressings. There is no stitching required.
- Wounds normally heal within two days, and bruising is to be expected, but bandages are applied to speed up the healing process.
- You will receive aftercare instructions and a device card with the date of insertion – but don’t worry, we understand forgetfulness might be a problem for you, so we also send you a reminder in three years when the device is due to be changed.
How easy is it to remove the contraceptive implant?
Surgical removal is very similar to implant insertion. We use a local anaesthetic to numb the area, just like a dentist would. The contraceptive implant is removed through a small incision made at the insertion site. The wound is simply dressed with steri-strips and normally heals in two to three days without stitches.
How often does a contraceptive implant need to be replaced?
Three years is the recommended lifespan for a contraceptive implant. However, you can remove the contraceptive implant at any time after insertion.
What are the side effects of a contraceptive implant?
It is estimated that 20% of patients stop having their period while the contraceptive implant is in place. The effects are not harmful to your health. According to the National Prescribing Service (NPS), the most common side effects after implant insertion are:
- Acne
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness and pain
- Weight gain
- Irregular bleeding
- Emotional lability
- Libido decreased
It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding right after the contraceptive implant insertion for up to six months. Typically, this is in the form of spotting over an extended period of time and will subside within six months. You can use the pill on top of the contraceptive implant to help manage bleeding issues. Usually, this works very well and is safe.
What is the cost of contraceptive implant insertion at Assure Health? Is it bulk billed?
The cost of fitting the contraceptive implant at Assure Health Clinics is in keeping with our usual fee structure at the clinics. It is possible for eligible patients to bulk bill; however, the contraceptive implant device can vary in price from the pharmacy.
Is contraceptive implant removal bulk-billed at Assure Health Clinics?
Removing the Contraceptive implant is, again, in keeping with our usual fee structure at Assure Health. Click here to see the fee schedule at each Assure Health Clinic.
Does a contraceptive implant cause weight gain?
Contraceptive implant studies show a weight gain of 1.5% following implant placement, but interestingly, this trend is the same for patients with an IUD inserted into the womb. Therefore, weight gain after a contraceptive implant is only partially caused by the contraceptive implant device. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are always recommended.
Which Assure Health Clinics offer contraceptive implant services?
Contraception implant fittings and removals can be arranged at our Assure Health Clinic
Assure Health Geelong Clinic
📞 (03) 9828 7557
Book Appointment Online
Assure Health St Albans Clinic
📞 (03) 9002 1018
Book Appointment Online
Intrauterine Device
The intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective, long-acting contraceptive option for individuals seeking reliable birth control without affecting daily routine, sexual activity, or future fertility. Our women’s health GPs at Assure Health Geelong and Assure Health St Albans can provide advice, assessment, and IUD fittings/removals in a supportive clinical environment.
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device placed inside the uterus to provide long-term contraception. The hormonal IUD slowly releases progesterone, helping prevent pregnancy while remaining fully reversible upon removal.
How does the intrauterine device work?
IUDs prevent pregnancy through two main actions:
- Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg
- Thinning the uterine lining and reducing the likelihood of implantation
IUDs are more than 99% effective and can be removed at any time by a trained clinician.
Which patients are not candidates for intrauterine devices?
Your GP will assess your medical history to determine suitability. An IUD may not be recommended if you have:
- A history of breast, cervical, or uterine cancer
- Active liver disease
- Uterine abnormalities that make insertion difficult
How much does an intrauterine device cost at Assure Health?
Click here to see the intrauterine device fitting/removal fees at Assure Health Clinics. To fit the device, you will need to pick up the intrauterine device from the pharmacy before your appointment.
How is the intrauterine device inserted?
IUD insertion is performed by specially trained women’s health GPs in a dedicated clinical room. The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes.
During your appointment, your GP will:
- Explain the procedure and what to expect
- Apply local anaesthetic spray to minimise discomfort
- Insert the IUD safely and precisely
You may be advised to take mild pain relief beforehand to ease post-procedure cramping.
Which Assure Health Clinics offer intrauterine device insertion and removal?
Intrauterine device insertion and removal are available at the following Assure Health clinics:
Please contact our reception team or book online.
Assure Health Geelong Clinic
📞 (03) 9828 7557
Book Appointment Online
Assure Health St Albans Clinic
📞 (03) 9002 1018
Book Appointment Online
Cervical Screening Geelong
Cervical screening: Why is it important?
Regular cervical screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer — a cancer that is highly treatable when detected early. Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 are encouraged to keep up with routine screening.
How does a cervical screening test (CST) differ from a PAP test?
Australia introduced the Cervical Screening Test (CST) in December 2017, replacing the old Pap smear. The CST is:
- More accurate
- Able to detect HPV (Human Papillomavirus) — the main cause of cervical cancer
- Required less often — every five years instead of every two, if results are normal
Pap smears only looked for changes in cervical cells, while the CST identifies HPV before it causes abnormal cell changes.
When should I have a Cervical Screening Test?
Most people aged 25–74 should have a CST every 5 years. Please speak with your doctor via telehealth or in person to confirm when your next test is due. You may need more frequent screening if you have certain risk factors — your doctor will guide you.
Seek medical advice immediately if you notice symptoms such as:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Persistent discharge
- Pain during intercourse
Early assessment ensures early care.
How much is cervical screening?
Please contact our reception team or book online.
Assure Health Geelong Clinic
📞 (03) 9828 7557
Book Appointment Online
Assure Health St Albans Clinic
📞 (03) 9002 1018
Book Appointment Online