Recently there have been a number of hand foot and mouth (HFMD) cases within our community. Have a read of our recent post on HFMD so you're aware of what to look out for and what to do.

February is ovarian cancer awareness month.

There’s NO early detection or screening test for ovarian cancer. Unfortunately most symptoms of ovarian cancer are not specific and can also be caused by other, less serious conditions.

Some symptoms may include:
- Tummy bloating
- Tummy or pelvic (lower tummy) pain
- Feeling full after eating small amounts
- Needing to urinate frequently
- Lower back pain
- Changes in bowel habits
- Bleeding in between periods or after menopause
- Painful intercourse or bleeding after

Whilst the exact causes of most ovarian cancers is unknown, we know there are some factors which may increase a woman’s risk.

Some factors that may increase one’s risk:
- Increasing age is the biggest risk factor for developing ovarian cancer. It most commonly occurs in women who have been through menopause.
- Hereditary factors: inheriting the BRCA gene or a family history of ovarian, breast, colorectal or endometrial cancer
- Being overweight
- Tobacco smoking
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, endometriosis or previous breast cancer
- Not having had children

Some factors that may reduce one’s risk:
- Having children
- Use of the oral contraceptive pill

If you or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms above or are concerned about your individual risk of ovarian cancer, speak to your GP, who will determine if further tests are required for you.

See ovariancancer.net.au for symptom diary and other useful info

Can we prevent skin cancer? YES!

Skin cancer is the MOST common cancer diagnosed in Australia. Here in Australia we have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Not only is the sun’s ☀️ UV light a cause of skin cancer, it can also cause eye damage and premature ageing.

Can we prevent these? YES!

5 steps for the best protection from the sun include:
1. Wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible
2. Wear a hat – preferably broad brimmed
3. Wear sunscreen that is SPF30 (or above) that is broad spectrum and water resistant (apply it at least 20m before going in the sun and reapply regularly)
4. Seek shade
5. Wear sunglasses outside during daylight hours

Avoid being outside when UV is at its greatest (eg: In the middle of the day between 10am -2pm) and check the UV rating.

Most skin cancers can be successfully treated if found early, so it’s important to regularly check your skin for any changes or new spots and see your doctor as soon as possible if you notice anything unusual.

See cancer.org.au and www.sunsmart.com.au for more information on how to protect yourself. For any concerns, speak to your GP.

Hand foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection commonly affecting kids under 10. It commonly causes a rash or blisters in or around the mouth and on the hands and feet. They can appear as white blisters or red/brown spots. HFMD is easily spread to others by respiratory droplets or from contact with blister fluid and can remain in faeces for several weeks.

Symptoms of rash often appear 3-7 days after becoming infected and last for 7-10 days. Children may have fever, rash, feel tired and have reduced appetite due to painful mouth ulcers.

HFMD will get better on its own and does not require specific treatment. If the child is uncomfortable pain relief eg children's paracetamol can be used. Children may need small frequent sips of water to prevent dehydration.

To prevent the spread of HFMD: Keep the child home from childcare/school and avoid contact with other children until all the fluid in blisters have dried, ensure the affected child does not share cutlery, towels, bottles etc with others and always wash hands thoroughly after touching the child’s bodily fluids.

If your child is unwell, take them to their GP ASAP to be reviewed.

If your child is unwell with fever and a purple/red spotty rash that does NOT go away when pressed on – attend Emergency ASAP as this may be a sign of meningococcal disease.

For more info chat to your GP.

Clinic Opening Hours over the Holiday Period

Thursday 24th Dec (Christmas Eve) 0900-1400
Friday 25th Dec (Christmas Day) CLOSED
Saturday 26th Dec (Boxing Day) CLOSED
Sunday 27th Dec CLOSED
Monday 28th Dec CLOSED
Tuesday 29th Dec 0900-1400
Wednesday 30th Dec 0900-1400
Thursday 31st Dec (New Year's Eve) 0900-1400
Friday 1st Jan (New Year's day) CLOSED
Saturday 2nd Jan CLOSED
Sunday 3rd Jan CLOSED
Monday 4th Jan 0800-2000 (normal hours)

Thinking about having a baby?

Did you know that you should speak to your GP BEFORE you start trying for a baby? Having a discussion with your GP BEFORE you stop contraception and/or 3-6 months prior to trying is ideal.

Being as healthy as possible before you get pregnant increases the chance that things go well for both yourself and your baby. There are many things to be discussed with your doctor before you start trying, to identify any potential problems which may complicate pregnancy so that steps can be taken to manage them prior to pregnancy and ensure you are as healthy as possible to enable good outcomes.

These discussions may surround:
- Personal medical history, surgical history and family history
- Optimising current physical health, mental health and weight
- Reviewing medications, diet and lifestyle – Did you know some medications can cause birth defects?
- Seeing if you are up to date with immunisations and if you may require any to ensure you and your baby are kept safe
- Screening and treatment of any infectious diseases
- Supplements required prior to and during pregnancy eg folic acid and iodine (some women may require additional supplements so speak to your doctor first)
- Discussions about genetic screening

Always speak to your GP to get recommendations that are specific to you and your situation – Don’t rely on what friends or family have told you, as it may not be the most up to date information or may not be appropriate for your situation.