Dudley Gynaecology

31/03/2026

Here’s a friendly reminder of our hours over the Easter period. While we are open for Good Friday and Easter Saturday, our clinic will be closed on Easter Monday.

Our Easter Schedule:
• Good Friday (April 3rd): Clinic Open (for scheduled appointments)
• Easter Saturday (April 4th): Clinic Open (for scheduled appointments)
• Easter Monday (April 6th): Closed
• Tuesday (April 7th): Fully re-open from 9:00am

If you need to contact us over the long weekend, we are still accepting phone calls, referrals and bookings.

To contact us:
• Call: 021 024 51019
• Email: admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz

From the Dudley Gynaecology team, we wish you a happy and relaxing Easter!

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

24/03/2026

At Dudley Gynaecology, we see these "shared flares" frequently. Understanding why they overlap is the first step toward better pain management.

Why do they travel together?

The connection usually comes down to three main drivers:

• Estrogen fluctuations are a major trigger. Changes in your levels can worsen endometriosis lesions and spark a migraine at the same point in your cycle.

• Both conditions involve systemic inflammation. When your body is in an inflammatory state due to endo, it can lower your threshold for migraine triggers.

• Chronic pain can lead to Central Sensitisation, where your nervous system becomes hypersensitive. Essentially, your body’s pain signals get "turned up," making you more reactive to both pelvic and neurological pain.

Because they share triggers, treating them as a "package deal" is often more effective than treating them in isolation. By addressing the underlying inflammation and hormonal triggers, we can help reduce your overall pain burden.

You don't have to navigate these complex symptoms alone. Our team at Dudley Gynaecology is here to look at the whole picture and help you regain control of your cycle. If you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

19/03/2026

In older women, menopause is typically assumed if menstruation has ceased for 12 months or more. This generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. A common indicator is the presence of hot flushes, which affect upwards of 80% of women during this transition.

Surgical menopause specifically refers to the removal of both ovaries in women who have not yet undergone natural menopause. This procedure almost always occurs in conjunction with a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). It is important to note that women who have their ovaries removed after natural menopause will not experience surgical menopause or feel any difference.

There are many physical and emotional symptoms associated with this transition:
• Physical: Hot flushes, night sweats, extreme fatigue, headaches, cold hands/feet, easy bruising, and nose bleeds.
• Emotional/Cognitive: Anxiety, irritability, depression, insomnia, tearfulness, decreased libido, and decreased concentration.
• Other Signs: Dry skin, hair, and nails; rheumatic pains; increased bladder infections; loss of bone density; and varicose veins.

At Dudley Gynaecology, we work with you to create a personalised long-term health plan. Options for management include:
• Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT/HRT): This can be helpful if there are no conflicting medical concerns. Treatment usually lasts until the average age of natural menopause (51 years).
• Antidepressants: Certain SNRIs (e.g., Venlafaxine) and SSRIs (e.g., Sertraline, Citalopram) have been shown to help manage symptoms and thermo-regulation.
• Alternative Therapies: While scientific evidence is limited, some women find relief through Vitamin E, Black cohosh (use with caution due to liver concerns), or phytoestrogen supplements.

If you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

11/03/2026

Many women experience blood clots during their period, but it can be difficult to know when they are just a normal part of your cycle and when they might be a sign of something more.

At Dudley Gynaecology, we believe in empowering you with the facts about your reproductive health. While small clots (smaller than a 50c coin) are often just a result of blood pooling, larger clots or persistent heavy bleeding can sometimes signal underlying conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

If your period is impacting your quality of life, we're here to help.

Book an appointment online:

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

07/03/2026

Today is International Women’s Day, a global celebration of achievement and a reminder of the importance of women’s health.

We're proud to support women through every stage of life with personalised, specialist care. Investing in your health is the greatest gift you can give yourself.

Happy International Women's Day from the team at Dudley Gynaecology.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

01/03/2026

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month. This month, we are raising awareness for the 1 in 10 women in New Zealand living with this condition.

Endometriosis (kōpū whakatupu pūtautau) is often called an "invisible disease". It isn't because it can’t be seen, but because it is so frequently missed or misunderstood. Many patients spend years being misdiagnosed before finally getting the right answers.

Common Misdiagnoses Include:
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Endo can mimic GI issues, but the root cause is often pelvic inflammation rather than digestion.
• Appendicitis: Lesions near the appendix can cause similar localized pain, sometimes leading to unnecessary surgery while the underlying disease remains.
• Ovarian Cysts: When cysts aren't present on a scan, patients are often told “everything looks fine,” even though debilitating pain persists.

At Dudley Gynaecology, we believe the right diagnosis is the first essential step toward relief. Whether you are experiencing chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or fertility struggles, your symptoms deserve to be taken seriously.

If you’ve been told “it’s just IBS” or “nothing’s wrong,” but you still feel pain, it’s time to look deeper. Let’s break the silence and empower ourselves with the right information.

For more information, visit the Endometriosis New Zealand website here: www.nzendo.org.nz

If you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

18/02/2026

Pelvic pain and women’s health issues can impact every stage of life, from reproductive years through menopause. At Dudley Gynaecology, we believe that understanding the statistics and symptoms is the first step toward effective care.

Common Conditions & Impact:
• Adenomyosis: Can affect 20-35% of people with a uterus, often causing chronic abdominal-pelvic pain and infertility.
• Fibroids: Affects 70% of Caucasian women and up to 80% of women of African American ancestry.
• Endometriosis: A widespread issue affecting 1 in 9 individuals.
• Postpartum: Between 6% - 11% of women experience chronic abdominal-pelvic pain following childbirth.
• Menopause: 57% of post-menopausal women experience symptoms like painful in*******se or urinary issues.

You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. If you are experiencing these symptoms and would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

10/02/2026

If you’ve been feeling like your body has a mind of its own lately, you aren’t imagining it. Menopause is a whole-body transition that affects everything from your internal thermostat to your mental clarity.

Swipe through to see how some of the common symptoms can feel:
• Joint & Muscle Aches - Many women describe feeling "stiff" or as if their joints have aged overnight.
• Brain Fog - Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness or a feeling of being "fuzzy."
• Mood Swings - Increased irritability, anxiety, or low mood. Some women describe a loss of confidence or feeling "not like themselves."
• Sleep Disturbances - Insomnia or waking up at 3:00 AM and being unable to fall back to sleep (often exacerbated by night sweats).
• Electric Shock Sensations - Sharp, tingly feelings under the skin or in the head.
• Heart Palpitations - A racing or fluttering heart sensation that can occur alongside hot flashes.

The important thing to remember? Menopause looks different for everyone. While these are common experiences, they are by no means the only symptoms. With over 30 possible symptoms—ranging from mood shifts to skin changes—your journey is unique to you. Whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or life-altering, they are real and they deserve attention.

At Dudley Gynaecology, we believe no one should have to "just tough it out." Support and evidence-based care can make a world of difference in navigating this transition.

You don't have to navigate this alone. If you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

www.dudleygynaecology.co.nz

02/02/2026

This February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in New Zealand.

Ovarian Cancer is the name commonly used for cancer that develops in the o***y, fallopian tube or peritoneum (lining of the abdomen). In New Zealand, one woman is diagnosed every day, and approximately 1 in 70 will be affected in their lifetime.

Common symptoms include:
• Abdominal/pelvic pain or discomfort
• Increased abdominal size/bloating
• Bowel habit changes
• Eating less and feeling fuller
• Needing to urinate more often or urgently
• Fatigue

You know your body best. If you notice any new or unusual changes that persist for more than two weeks, please book an appointment to get it checked out. Early detection makes a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

For more information, visit the Ovarian Cancer Foundation NZ website here: www.ovariancancerfoundation.org.nz

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.

30/01/2026

Menopause linked to loss of grey matter in the brain, poorer mental health and sleep disturbance

Menopause is linked to reductions in grey matter volume in key brain regions as well as increased levels of anxiety and depression and difficulties with sleep, according to new research from the University of Cambridge.

The study, published today in Psychological Medicine, found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) does not appear to mitigate these effects, though it can slow the decline in reaction times.

Data of 125 000 women from the UK Biobank was analysed, highlighting an increase in anxiety and depression in menopausal women. The study raises awareness of possible mental health symptoms exacerbated by menopause and this may help menopausal women be more transparent about cognitive challenges impacting their day to day lives.

HRT appears to put the brakes on slower reaction times linked with aging and menopause. Although a reduction in grey matter was noted in menopausal women, irrespective of whether they used HRT or not, the relevance of this finding remains to be seen. Further research is needed in this area.

Although there may be changes in grey matter volume in women with Alzheimer’s disease, this study is making no claims regarding a change in risk of Alzheimer’s disease with HRT, in line with four previously published randomised controlled trials.

The authors focus on the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including good sleep hygiene, to optimise mid-life health.

Further information about this study is available on the University of Cambridge website.

28/01/2026

Preparing for your endometriosis laparoscopy soon?

We know that the lead-up to surgery can feel overwhelming, and knowing what to actually bring with you shouldn't add to the stress.

To help you prepare, here is a practical hospital bag checklist. These aren't just standard recommendations, these items come directly from the helpful suggestions of the wonderful Endometriosis New Zealand community. They are the things that those who have already had this operation found most valuable during their hospital stay.

Swipe through to see the community's top picks for essentials, personal care, comfort items and entertainment.

Make sure to screenshot or save this post so you have it handy when it’s time to pack! You've got this. 🧡

21/01/2026

Is it "just" a period, or is it something more?

Pelvic pain and period pain share similarities, but understanding their differences is key to identifying the root cause. While many experience discomfort during their cycle, knowing when pain signals an underlying issue is vital for your long-term health.

Understanding Period Pain
Period pain (dysmenorrhea) typically follows a predictable pattern:
• Cyclical: It usually appears just before or during menstruation.
• Duration: It generally lasts for only a few days.
• Management: It often improves with rest or medication.
• Cause: The primary cause is uterine contractions.

Identifying Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain is often more complex and may require specialist evaluation:
• Timing: It can occur at any time in the cycle, not just during your period.
• Triggers: It may worsen with sitting, s*x, or physical activity.
• Duration: It is often chronic, lasting six months or longer.
• Root Causes: It may signal conditions like Endometriosis, Interstitial Cystitis (IC), or Pelvic Floor Dysfunction.

If your pain extends beyond your period or interferes with your daily life, you don't have to "just live with it." Our team is here to provide a deeper evaluation and help you find a path toward relief.

If you would like to arrange an appointment with Dr Narena Dudley, please call 021 024 51019 or email admin@dudleygynaecology.co.nz.

Dudley Gynaecology offers individualised patient-centered care for women in all stages of their life.