Dr Madeeha Hafeez- Women's Health GP

16/04/2026

While Parkinson's is widely known for motor symptoms such as tremor or poor balance, what happens beneath the surface can be just as significant.

Parkinson’s disease occurs when the brain stops producing enough dopamine - the chemical responsible for controlling movement, balance, automatic functions of the body and mood.

Many of its lesser-known symptoms are ones you simply can't see, including sleep disturbances like acting out dreams and sleep talking, persistent fatigue and a slowing of thoughts.

Around half of all people with Parkinson's also experience anxiety and depression. This can often include apathy, a loss of interest in people and activities caused by low dopamine.

Letting family and friends know these are recognised symptoms can make a real difference.

If you or someone you love needs support, call the Hospital Research Foundation - Parkinson’s info line on 1800 644 189 for counselling, information, and guidance.

A free 1:1 nursing service is also available to provide information of how to manage symptoms and connect with community supports.

16/04/2026

Even if you feel great, some health problems don’t show obvious symptoms. That’s why prenatal tests are so important!

Expect:
📸 Ultrasound – See your baby’s growth!
🩸 Blood & urine tests – Check for infections & anaemia
🔬 Blood pressure & glucose screening – Prevent complications
🤰🏾 Regular baby monitoring – Ensure a safe delivery

Every test is a step toward a healthy pregnancy. Work with your health worker to ensure you get the care you need, when you need it. 💕

30/03/2026

Symptoms associated with menopause can include:
🔥 Hot flushes & night sweats
🗓️ Changes in regularity & flow of menstrual cycle
🛌 Difficulty sleeping/insomnia
😥 Changes in mood, depression & anxiety

24/02/2026

February marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - an important opportunity for our Northern Health community to shine a light on a disease that continues to significantly impact women across Australia. 💚

Often described as the “silent killer,” ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect early because its symptoms are frequently subtle and non-specific. Persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort, changes in appetite, or feeling full quickly are symptoms that can easily be attributed to other conditions - which is why awareness and timely medical review are so important.

Bec van de Paverd, Acting Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer and Divisional Director, Medicine and Cancer Services at Northern Health, says there is growing recognition of the need to prioritise women’s health at a system level.

“Now more than ever, there is a renewed focus on elevating women’s health as a priority. Ovarian cancer highlights the importance of validating persistent symptoms and advocating for investigation when something doesn’t feel right. Awareness empowers women, families and clinicians alike.”

Read the full story here: https://bit.ly/40sVFtK

02/02/2026

Cervical screening is an essential tool in preventing cervical cancer – but many people are unsure if, or when, they need a test.

This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, RANZCOG and the RACGP have developed a guide to help you understand who needs screening, when to see a GP, and how often a Cervical Screening Test is recommended.

The Cervical Screening Test checks for human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. Detecting HPV early saves lives by helping prevent cancer before it develops. You can choose to have a healthcare provider collect the sample using a speculum and small brush, or you can self-collect the sample using a small swab. Both options are equally as accurate at detecting HPV.

💬 If you are experiencing symptoms you are concerned about, or are unsure what applies to you, speak with your GP.

29/01/2026

Impetigo, also known as school sores, is a common bacterial skin infection that causes sores which often start as blisters, then pop, weep and form crusts.

Unfortunately, the chances of them infiltrating your home are more likely than not, especially with going back to school.

School sores spread easily through skin-to-skin contact (hard to avoid with kids), especially when bacteria enter through broken or irritated skin - like scratches, bites, eczema or after illnesses such as chickenpox. They’re also very itchy, and scratching makes it easy for the infection to spread to others.

What’s important to know:
Children with impetigo must be kept home from school or childcare until treatment has started. Good hand washing and personal hygiene also help prevent spread.

Where to get help:
If you think your child has impetigo, your community pharmacist is a good place to start. They can assess the sores and give advice on next steps.

Chemist Care Now allows Victorians to receive some treatments at a local chemist, just like school sores, without needing to see a doctor to get a prescription first.

Give your chemist a call before you go to check what treatments are available for school sores, or if you need to book ahead.

For less complicated cases, treatment is now available at participating chemists through Chemist Care Now.

If the infection is more severe, or not suitable for treatment at the chemist, the pharmacist will refer you to a GP for care.

For more: https://go.vic.gov.au/3NxoUIU

07/01/2026

Severe to extreme heat is forecast in Victoria from today.

To keep you and others safe:

• Stay hydrated
• Keep cool
• Watch for signs of heat-related health problems
• Check in on those at risk

Know the risks, be prepared, and stay healthy.

For more information on how to stay safe during extreme heat, visit: https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/

07/01/2026

Heat exhaustion vs heat stroke – do you know the difference?

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and/or salt contained in sweat. It can be treated by cooling down the body’s temperature by resting in a cool place, taking a cool shower, or drinking water.

When left untreated, heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke, which is a life-threatening emergency. If you notice yourself or someone displaying symptoms, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

If you are experiencing heatstroke, here’s what to do while waiting for help to arrive.

If the person is unconscious:
• Lay them on their side in the recovery position and check they can breathe properly.
• Perform CPR if needed.

If the person is conscious:
• Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol.
• Move them to a cool area and keep them still.
• Give them small sips of fluid.
• Cool them down with cold water or cool packs.

To learn more, visit sahealth.sa.gov.au/healthyintheheat

07/01/2026

06/01/2026

Extreme heat can make you feel unwell and may lead to dangerous heat-related illnesses. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include dizziness, headaches, nausea, thirst, or vomiting.

To stay safe, drink plenty of water and avoid going outside during the hottest parts of the day. Check in on loved ones regularly, especially older adults and pregnant people. Keep cool indoors with a fan or air-conditioner.

Remember to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and, if you’re going outside, wear a hat, sunglasses and plenty of SPF 50+ sunscreen.

For more tips, visit sahealth.sa.gov.au/healthyintheheat

02/01/2026

With more pollen in the air, many people are noticing an increase in hay fever and asthma symptoms. This time of year also brings a higher risk of thunderstorm asthma, which can come on suddenly and be life-threatening. ⚠️

Knowing asthma first aid could save a life. Here’s what to do if you or someone else is having an asthma attack:

Asthma First Aid – 4 Key Steps (12yrs +).

Step 1: Sit yourself / the person upright

Step 2: Using a blue/grey reliever puffer (and a spacer, if you have one): shake the puffer, put 1 puff into the spacer, take 4 breaths. Repeat 4 times. Remember: Shake, 1 puff, 4 breaths.

Step 3: Wait 4 minutes. If breathing does not return to normal, take 4 more separate puffs of blue/grey reliever.

Step 4: If breathing still does not return to normal dial triple zero (000) for an ambulance. Take 4 separate puffs every 4 minutes until emergency assistance arrives.

Call 000 immediately if:
• Breathing becomes difficult
• Symptoms get worse quickly
• There is no reliever available

For more information visit: https://go.vic.gov.au/4aTP5D0

28/12/2025

There is no health without 💚

In 2026, let's make sure mental health is given the same priority as physical health by standing up against stigma and ensuring more people can access the support they need.