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Dr Dean Conrad

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Sydney, NSW
Dr Dean Conrad

Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Fertility, Pelvic Floor. Advanced Minimally Invasive Pelvic Surgery

22/02/2026

Ovarian Cancer: Understanding the Symptoms

Ovarian cancer is often described as a “silent disease”, but in reality the body usually does give warning signs. The challenge is that these symptoms can be subtle, vague, and easily mistaken for everyday digestive or hormonal changes.

What matters most is persistence. Symptoms that continue, worsen, or feel different from your normal should not be ignored.

19/02/2026

Today is International Urogynecology Awareness Day

Pelvic floor conditions are incredibly common, yet many women feel they have to live with symptoms in silence.

Urinary leakage, prolapse, difficulty with bowel emptying, pelvic discomfort, and changes after childbirth or menopause can have a major impact on quality of life. These issues are treatable, and support is available.

International Urogynecology Awareness Day shines a light on this important area of women’s health and the clinicians, physiotherapists, and researchers working to improve pelvic health, dignity, and wellbeing for women around the world.

Pelvic health matters at every stage of life. If something doesn’t feel right, you don’t have to put up with it and you’re not alone.

Today is about awareness, education, and helping women feel confident to seek care.

Let’s normalise talking about pelvic floor health.

17/02/2026

Trialling the new on Valentine’s Day with the DV5 team.

Robotic platforms have been one of the most transformative shifts in my surgical practice. The technology isn’t new, but it keeps evolving, and each iteration quietly changes what’s possible for patients.

Across Australia and NewZealand there are now more than 150 robotic surgical platforms in use, most centred around the daVinci ecosystem. The Xi remains the workhorse and has enabled a generation of surgeons to move away from open surgery and towards safer minimally invasive care. The DV5 builds on that legacy rather than replacing it.

Workflow, ergonomics and surgeon control continue to improve, with insufflation, imaging and video recording integrated at the console. Force feedback is another meaningful step, helping newer surgeons develop safe tissue handling more quickly.
But the real shift sits under the hood.
The DV5 processor is around 10,000 times more powerful than previous systems. To put that into perspective, there are more than 10,000 Xi platforms currently in use worldwide, meaning a single DV5 has the computational capacity to process more data than the entire global Xi fleet combined. That opens the door to continuous analytics, performance feedback and AI-supported safety features.

What this computing power enables over time is where things get exciting. It creates the foundation for future capabilities such as real-time anatomical recognition of ureters and vessels, intelligent force limits to reduce inadvertent tissue injury, and intraoperative decision support in complex cases. Not replacing judgement, but supporting it.

Importantly, capability is built into the platform. While fully remote surgery still raises ethical concerns around connectivity and governance, teleproctoring and real-time support during complex situations is a practical and immediate application. This has particular relevance in rural and regional settings, where access to emergency subspecialty input at the time of a complication may significantly influence patient safety.

The Australian Institute of Robotic Surgery (AIRS) is working to embed teleproctoring as a core component of national credentialling frameworks, extending support well beyond the traditional three to five in-person proctored cases. This provides surgeons with ongoing mentorship and guidance as they transition to independent practice, improving confidence, consistency and patient safety.

Congratulations to Device Technologies and Intuitive for continuing to bring these advances into Australian theatres.

I look forward to ongoing conversations with Ramsay Health Care about expanding patient access to the latest robotic platforms and the training ecosystems that sit around them.
Exciting times ahead for robotic surgery in Australia, and more importantly, for the patients we serve

16/02/2026

Happy Chinese New Year!

As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we celebrate a symbol of strength, vitality, perseverance and forward momentum. These are qualities that resonate deeply in health, medicine and everyday life.

In Chinese culture, the Horse represents energy, resilience and progress. It reminds us to keep moving forward, to care for our bodies and minds, and to prioritise wellbeing as we navigate busy lives.

This time of year is a reminder of how important it is to:
• Listen to our bodies
• Seek balance between work, rest and family
• Invest in preventive health and early care

Wishing everyone health, happiness and strength in the year ahead.

Gong Hei Fat Choy!

11/02/2026

Meet Olympia & Dimitri!

A very special welcome to Olympia and Dimitri, beautiful twins who have just joined their proud parents and big brother, Panos.

Olympia and Dimitri are fraternal twins, meaning they developed from two separate eggs. They are brother and sister, and while they share the same birthday, they are as unique as any siblings, each with their own personalities from the very beginning.

Fraternal twins are the most common type of twin pregnancy and can occur naturally, sometimes running in families or with the help of fertility treatments.

Twin pregnancies are also monitored more closely than singleton pregnancies. With two babies growing at the same time, there is a higher chance of preterm birth and differences in growth, so regular scans and antenatal care are important to support the health of both babies and mum.

It is always a privilege to be part of these moments and to watch families grow. Wishing Olympia, Dimitri, Panos, and their family all the very best as they begin life together as a family of five. 💙💗

09/02/2026

Lets talk about your Ovaries.

Your ovaries may be small, but they play a powerful role in your health, from hormone balance and fertility to long-term wellbeing.

During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a good time to pause and give them some attention.

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent” cancer because symptoms can be vague and easy to dismiss. Knowing what’s normal for your body and when something doesn’t feel right matters.

Don’t ignore persistent symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, feeling full quickly, or changes in bowel or bladder habits
• Attend regular check-ups and talk to your doctor about any ongoing concerns
• Know your family history — genetics can influence risk
• Advocate for yourself if symptoms persist or worsen

There is no single screening test for ovarian cancer, which makes awareness, education, and early assessment so important.

If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.
Early conversations can make a real difference.

06/02/2026

Myth: Do all Ovarian cysts become ovarian cancer?

Fact: No
The vast majority of ovarian cysts are benign and do NOT turn into cancer.
Ovarian cysts are very common—especially during reproductive years—and most are related to normal ovulation (functional cysts). These usually resolve on their own without treatment.

Being told you have an ovarian cyst can be scary—especially when the word cancer comes to mind. But here’s the truth: most ovarian cysts are common, harmless, and not linked to ovarian cancer. Let’s bust one of the biggest myths.

01/02/2026

February marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in Australia, a time to raise awareness, advocate for increased research, and support women affected by this devastating disease.

At first glance, the numbers may sound small. Nearly 2,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Australia each year, making it only the ninth most common cancer in women.

But here is the reality.

Despite its lower incidence, ovarian cancer has the poorest survival rate of any female cancer and is responsible for a disproportionately high number of cancer related deaths. More than 70 percent of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment options are limited.

Often called the “silent killer”, symptoms such as abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating, changes in bowel habits, and fatigue are frequently subtle, vague, and easy to dismiss.

There is currently no effective screening test, making early detection incredibly challenging.

This month, let’s help spread awareness, because recognising symptoms earlier can save lives.

26/01/2026

Vasectomy is an increasingly popular option for couples seeking a permanent and highly effective approach to family planning. As an obstetrician and gynaecologist, I often discuss this procedure with patients, focusing on what it involves, its benefits, and addressing common questions or concerns.

For couples who feel their family is complete, vasectomy can be a safe, reliable, and convenient option that allows shared decision-making around contraception.

If you are exploring long-term family planning, vasectomy is worth discussing with your partner and healthcare provider. Together, we can consider the options and choose an approach that best supports your health, lifestyle, and future goals.

21/01/2026

Let's talk about the difference between a Pap Smear vs HPV Test.

What is the Difference? — and Why does It Matter?

Pap Smear (Cytology)
A Pap smear looks for abnormal cells on the cervix.
It detects changes after they have already occurred.

HPV Test (Primary Screening)
The HPV test looks for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) — the virus that causes over 99% of cervical cancers.
It detects risk before abnormal cells or cancer develop.

Why is the HPV Test Is Better?
- Finds risk earlier
- More accurate than Pap smears
- Longer screening interval (every 5 years if normal)
- Prevents cervical cancer before it starts

This is why Australia now uses HPV testing as the primary cervical screening test. The HPV test saves more lives.

Who Needs Cervical Screening?
- People with a cervix
- Aged 25–74 years
- Even if you feel well and even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine

The Take-Home Message

Cervical screening isn’t about finding cancer, it’s about preventing it. If you’re overdue, unsure, or anxious about screening, speak with your GP or gynaecologist. Options like self-collection HPV testing are now available, early detection saves lives.

19/01/2026

Did you know Australia leads the world in cervical cancer prevention?
HPV vaccination is the superhero in this fight, guarding against the strains responsible for over 99% of cervical cancers.

Fun fact: The HPV vaccine was crafted by brilliant minds at the University of Queensland!

Since the National HPV Vaccination Program's launch in 2007, we've seen a significant drop in HPV-related infections, thanks to vaccinating both boys and girls. The ripple effect? A decline in cervical cancer cases.

The success led to a positive shift in the National Cervical Screening Program. Now, HPV screening is recommended every 5 years (instead of every 2 years), making it more convenient for women aged 25 to 74 to stay proactive in preventing cervical cancer.

For those who do not feel comfortable seeing a doctor for their cervical screening test, do not worry! There are now self collection swabs available.

Let's keep the momentum going!

Spread awareness, champion vaccinations, and see your GP to check if your Cervical Screening Test is up to date.

Let’s envision a future free from cervical cancer.

16/01/2026

Myth:
A hysterectomy cures endometriosis.

Fact:
A hysterectomy can cure adenomyosis, but it does not cure endometriosis.

Here’s why this matters.

Adenomyosis is disease within the muscle of the uterus.
Removing the uterus removes the disease. That is why hysterectomy can be curative for adenomyosis.
Endometriosis, by definition, is tissue growing outside the uterus.
It can involve the pelvis, ovaries, bowel, bladder, ligaments, and other structures. Removing the uterus does not remove these implants.

Why symptoms can persist or return after hysterectomy:
- Endometriosis lesions outside the uterus may remain
- Ovaries continue to produce hormones that can stimulate endometriosis
- Some disease is microscopic and not always visible at surgery
- Even after o***y removal, deep endometriosis may continue to cause symptoms

There is evidence that endometriosis tissue can produce its own hormones, which explains why symptoms can persist after menopause

What actually helps:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Complete excision of endometriosis by an experienced surgeon
- Individualised postoperative care, which may include pelvic floor physiotherapy, pain management, and hormonal strategies when appropriate

Bottom line
A hysterectomy is not a cure for endometriosis.
It may significantly improve symptoms for some women, especially if adenomyosis is also present, but endometriosis requires its own targeted treatment.

If you are still experiencing symptoms after surgery, you are not imagining it. You deserve answers, validation, and a plan that truly addresses the underlying disease.

Address

Sydney, NSW
2228

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	8am - 5:30pm
Thursday	8am - 5:30pm
Friday	8am - 1pm

Website

http://anaria.com.au/dr-conrad.php

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Nurturing Women’s Wellbeing

Dr Dean Conrad is an obstetrician and gynaecologist from Sydney’s Sutherland Shire with over ten years experience in women’s health. After graduating from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), he completed his specialist training at St George and Royal Women’s Hospitals. He then went on to complete a two year Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society (AGES) fellowship in minimally invasive surgery with Sydney Women’s Endosurgery Centre (SWEC).

Dean is a staff specialist at The Sutherland Hospital, with admitting rights at Kareena, St George and Hurstville Private hospitals. He is also a conjoint lecturer with the University of New South Wales. He has a specific interest in minimally invasive advanced pelvic surgery and specialises in the treatment of fertility and pelvic floor dysfunction, including non-mesh treatments for urinary incontinence and prolapse. His passion for education has taken him across the country as a teacher and surgical mentor, advancing the knowledge and awareness of endometriosis and pelvic floor disorders.