At Willoughby Medical Practice, Dr Lei Cao provides comprehensive women’s health care, supporting women throughout every stage of life. This guide covers three important areas: menopause management, urinary incontinence and pelvic floor muscle training, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in pregnancy.
Managing Menopause: Lifestyle & Hormone Therapy
What Is Menopause?
Menopause is the point when you experience your final menstrual period. You are considered menopausal when 12 months have passed without any period or spotting.
Most women reach menopause naturally between 45 and 55, with the Australian average being 51–52 years.
Why Symptoms Happen
As you approach menopause, hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall unpredictably.
Some women experience no symptoms, while others notice physical and emotional changes.
Common Symptoms
Physical symptoms
- Hot flushes
- Vaginal dryness or painful intercourse
- Headaches
- Muscle and joint pain
Emotional symptoms
- Mood changes, low mood or irritability
- Fatigue
- Forgetfulness or brain fog
- Anxiety
How to Manage Menopause
There is no single approach that works for everyone. Dr Lei Cao can help tailor a personalised menopause management plan at Willoughby Medical Practice, which may include:
Lifestyle strategies
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet
- Sleep optimisation
- Reducing alcohol and caffeine
- Stress reduction
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)
MHT—formerly known as HRT—is the most effective treatment for many menopausal symptoms. It can significantly improve quality of life when used appropriately.
Speak with Dr Lei Cao to discuss your symptoms, risks, and suitable options.
Urinary Incontinence & Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT)
Urinary incontinence affects over 4 million Australians, with women experiencing it more commonly than men. At Willoughby Medical Practice, Dr Lei Cao provides guidance and referral pathways for pelvic floor assessment and therapy.
Why PFMT Is Recommended
Pelvic floor muscle training is first-line treatment for:
- Stress incontinence
- Urge incontinence
- Mixed incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
PFMT is most effective when:
- Individually tailored
- Regularly supervised
- Performed with correct technique
Incorrect technique can reduce or eliminate the benefits.
How PFMT Works
1. Pelvic Floor Muscle Assessment
A trained health professional evaluates strength, coordination and technique.
2. Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises
- Performed 1–3 times daily
- Each set: 8–12 contractions, each lasting 6–8 seconds
- Contractions should be near maximal
- Practised in lying, sitting and standing positions
- Gradually increase hold time, repetitions and reduce rest periods
3. Pelvic Floor Muscle Bracing – “The Knack”
This involves tightening the pelvic floor before coughing, lifting or sneezing to prevent leakage.
Training programs lasting 3 months or more, with weekly supervised sessions, are shown to be the most effective.
Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection in Pregnancy
CMV is the most common congenital infection, with around 1 in 200 babies affected in high-income countries. It can cause long-term neurodevelopmental issues, including:
- Hearing loss
- Epilepsy
- Learning difficulties
- Cerebral palsy
Many pregnant women are unaware of CMV or how to reduce risk.
The Role of the GP
Dr Lei Cao plays a key role in:
- Preconception counselling
- Antenatal education
- Advising on infection prevention
Early education is essential, especially because a first-trimester maternal CMV infection carries the highest risk to the fetus.
How to Reduce CMV Risk During Pregnancy
The Australian Government recommends that all pregnant women receive advice on hygiene measures, including:
- Avoiding contact with young children’s saliva or urine
- Washing hands after nappy changes, feeding, or wiping a child’s nose
- Not sharing utensils, food or drinks with toddlers
These precautions are simple, safe and effective.
Book a Women’s Health Appointment at Willoughby Medical Practice
Whether you are navigating menopause, experiencing urinary incontinence, or planning a pregnancy, Dr Lei Caoprovides compassionate, evidence-based care for women at every stage of life.
📅 Book an appointment today for personalised women’s health support.