Dr Dean Conrad

Dr Dean Conrad Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Fertility, Pelvic Floor. Advanced Minimally Invasive Pelvic Surgery

Had the pleasure of hosting Dr Matt Smith from Brisbane as an observer recently, where we tackled a complex case of seve...
12/04/2026

Had the pleasure of hosting Dr Matt Smith from Brisbane as an observer recently, where we tackled a complex case of severe endometriosis with hysterectomy using the Hugo RAS platform.

A real highlight was using the new ICG fluorescence technology with the Rubina system, the first gynaecology case in Australia to do so. The platform allows a colour overlay while still operating in standard view, along with intensity mapping that varies depending on ICG uptake. In complex endometriosis, this provided a valuable way to keep the ureter clearly visualised and protected. There is also exciting potential for its role in endometriosis resection moving forward.

We also had some great discussions around AI in healthcare. Matt is a founder of CHARLI, a platform focused on supporting women and clinics through the fertility journey. It is an interesting space, particularly as we look at how AI can improve access, streamline care, and support decision-making.

Looking forward to hearing more about CHARLI and other AI applications at the upcoming AGES Focus Meeting in Sydney this October, with the theme “Rise of the Machines”. It should be a great opportunity to explore both the potential and the challenges of robotics and AI in healthcare.

Thanks to Alex Baffsky for the support on the case. An exciting milestone and a glimpse into where things are heading.

Early signs of adenomyosis: what to look out forAdenomyosis is something I’m seeing more and more in practice, and for m...
08/04/2026

Early signs of adenomyosis: what to look out for

Adenomyosis is something I’m seeing more and more in practice, and for many women, the symptoms have often been there for years before a diagnosis is made.

It’s often brushed off as “just bad periods”, but there are some early signs worth paying attention to:

• Heavy periods
Bleeding that is heavier than usual, lasts longer, or includes clotting, especially if it’s getting worse over time or has changed after pregnancy.

• Pelvic pain
Ongoing or worsening pain, particularly around your period. This can sometimes extend to the lower back or thighs.

• A feeling of pressure or bloating
Some women describe a sense of heaviness or fullness in the pelvis, often related to an enlarged or inflamed uterus.

• Changes in your cycle
Spotting between periods or changes in timing, flow, or duration.

• Pain with s*x
Discomfort during or after in*******se is common, but often not talked about.

• Urinary symptoms
A need to pass urine more frequently or urgently in some cases.

These symptoms are common, but that doesn’t mean they’re normal.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth having it checked. Early diagnosis can make a real difference to how we manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

You don’t have to just put up with it.

Just back from a fantastic few days in Auckland at the AGES conference.It’s always a great reminder of how much is happe...
07/04/2026

Just back from a fantastic few days in Auckland at the AGES conference.

It’s always a great reminder of how much is happening behind the scenes in women’s health. From advances in minimally invasive and robotic surgery to improving how we train and support doctors, everything ultimately comes back to providing better care for our patients.

This year was particularly special as it was the first AGES meeting held in New Zealand, bringing colleagues together from across the Tasman. A real highlight was connecting, sharing ideas, and learning from each other, and having open discussions about how we continue to improve what we do day to day.

I was also fortunate to be involved in the meeting as an invited speaker and session chair, which was a great opportunity to contribute and be part of the discussion.

It was also a proud moment seeing our SMIGS fellow Dr Sireen Jaber graduate, and being part of conversations around the future of surgery and surgical education.

And of course, the conference wrapped up with a gala evening raising funds for Te Whare Taonga, supporting vulnerable women and families in the community.

Grateful to be part of a field that is constantly evolving and always focused on improving care for women.

Wishing all my wonderful patients a very happy and peaceful Easter.This season is a reminder of new beginnings, hope, an...
04/04/2026

Wishing all my wonderful patients a very happy and peaceful Easter.

This season is a reminder of new beginnings, hope, and renewal—something I feel privileged to witness every day in my line of work.

Thank you for trusting me to be part of your journey, whether it’s through pregnancy, women’s health, or life’s many transitions.

I hope you enjoy a restful long weekend with your loved ones, and take a moment to care for yourself as well

April is Caesarean Awareness Month.A caesarean section is one of the most common operations performed worldwide, and a s...
02/04/2026

April is Caesarean Awareness Month.

A caesarean section is one of the most common operations performed worldwide, and a significant part of many families’ birth stories. Sometimes it’s planned, sometimes it’s unexpected, but it is always a big moment.

In my practice, I see the full spectrum. Women who feel reassured by a planned caesarean, and others who arrive there after a long and difficult labour. It’s not just a procedure. It’s a physical recovery, an emotional experience, and something that can shape how women feel about their birth for years to come.

What matters most is that women feel informed, supported, and safe, whatever path their birth takes.

There is no single “right” way to give birth. The goal is a healthy mum, a healthy baby, and a positive experience where women feel heard and cared for.

April is Adenomyosis Awareness Month.Adenomyosis occurs when the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle wall. It can...
31/03/2026

April is Adenomyosis Awareness Month.

Adenomyosis occurs when the lining of the uterus grows into the muscle wall. It can lead to heavy bleeding, significant pain, and a real impact on quality of life.

It’s a condition I’m seeing more and more, and one we’re continuing to better understand. For many women, it’s been there for years, often labelled as “just bad periods”. Something they’re told to push through, normalise, or ignore.

But it’s not normal. And it’s not something anyone should have to live with in silence.

The challenge is that adenomyosis is still frequently under-recognised and can take years to diagnose. That’s starting to change, with better imaging, growing awareness, and more open conversations around women’s health.

Importantly, there are options. Management can range from lifestyle measures and medications through to more advanced surgical treatments, depending on symptoms and individual goals.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth asking the question. You don’t have to just put up with it.

Raising awareness is a small step, but for many women, it’s the first step towards being heard.

Today is National Doctors’ Day.One of the things I’ve realised over time is that what stays with you isn’t just the medi...
29/03/2026

Today is National Doctors’ Day.

One of the things I’ve realised over time is that what stays with you isn’t just the medicine, it’s the people. The mentors who shaped how you think, the colleagues who make tough days manageable, and the patients who trust you at some of the most vulnerable times in their lives.

I feel incredibly lucky to work with the team at Anaria. The colleagues I work with every day who support each other, not just in caring for our patients, but also when the days are busy or tough, and in making sure we all get time with our families when it matters.

A special thanks to Dr Andrew Zuschmann Dr Amani Harris and Dr Nancy Peters. It’s a privilege to work alongside you.

We recently had a meet and greet with our patients, which was a great reminder of how important it is to have a team that genuinely cares for both patients and each other.

We don’t always stop to acknowledge it, but those moments are what define the job.

To all my colleagues and friends in medicine, thank you for what you do.

Happy National Doctors’ Day.

This week my wife Debbie and I, with the help of our assistant Leo, put together an organised pack of donations for the ...
25/03/2026

This week my wife Debbie and I, with the help of our assistant Leo, put together an organised pack of donations for the Dandelion Support Network, a grassroots not-for-profit that supports children and families in need.

The Dandelion Support Network accepts, sorts and safety checks donated children’s clothing and nursery items for families experiencing hardship. They work closely with hospitals and community support agencies to provide these essential items to families. The organisation receives no government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of the community and its supporters.

One small thing that helps their volunteers enormously is bagging donations before drop off. For example, clothing can be bagged and labelled by size or age group. This makes it much easier for the team to sort items efficiently and get them to families who need them.

All donated goods are processed using high quality safety and hygiene standards so they can be safely enjoyed by their new owners. Once the items are prepared, they are packed with care and distributed to families through hospitals and community agencies.

Since December 2011 they have helped more than 30,000 children and 20,000 families, and now work with over 300 hospitals and community service agencies to support families across the community.

They are based in the Sutherland Shire and I would highly recommend supporting them if you have items to donate. There are many families who will benefit from even small acts of generosity.

Their vision is simple and powerful. Every baby and child should have access to the essential nursery items needed for safety, wellbeing and development.

Please visit their website for more information.
https://dandelionsupport.org.au

Meet baby Kai Our newest little   has arrived — and with him comes a powerful story about resilience, hope, and the jour...
19/03/2026

Meet baby Kai

Our newest little has arrived — and with him comes a powerful story about resilience, hope, and the journey many women face with endometriosis.

This story shares a glimpse into the connection between endometriosis, fertility challenges, and caesarean scar defects — and how, even through complex journeys, beautiful outcomes are possible.

Let’s raise awareness, support women navigating these conditions, and celebrate the strength behind every story.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month.Fertility concerns can feel overwhelming, especially when living with endometrios...
15/03/2026

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Fertility concerns can feel overwhelming, especially when living with endometriosis. The key is early discussion, realistic expectations, and a personalised plan.

If you are navigating endometriosis and thinking about pregnancy, support and guidance can make a real difference.

Meet baby Evie, who I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming into the world. She joins her big sister Poppie and her bea...
11/03/2026

Meet baby Evie, who I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming into the world. She joins her big sister Poppie and her beautiful family, and it was so lovely to see them all again.

Evie arrived in a breech position, which means she was bottom or feet first rather than head first.

Did you know?
Around 3 to 4 percent of babies are breech at term. Many babies are breech earlier in pregnancy and turn on their own before birth. Some babies remain breech due to uterine shape, placenta position, fluid levels, or simply their own preference

In some cases, babies can be turned before birth with a procedure called external cephalic version (ECV)
Breech babies can sometimes be born vaginally in carefully selected situations, but planned caesarean birth is often recommended for safety. Every breech baby and every pregnancy is different, and the right plan is always an individual one.

So lovely to have a visit from baby Evie and her gorgeous family. Thank you for coming in to say hello and for the delicious cookies. Very much appreciated.

Does   run in families?Yes.I frequently see patients with endometriosis who have a strong family history.Research shows:...
09/03/2026

Does run in families?

Yes.

I frequently see patients with endometriosis who have a strong family history.

Research shows:
• A fivefold increased risk if a sister is affected
• Around double the risk if a cousin is affected
• Evidence that fathers can pass on genetic susceptibility to their daughters

There is no single gene that causes endometriosis. However, increasing evidence suggests that it has a strong genetic component and often runs in families.

Often the story goes like this:

A mother had heavy, painful periods.
She may have had a hysterectomy years ago for “unknown reasons.”
She was told it was normal.

Now her daughter is told the same thing.

And the cycle continues.

Unfortunately, this contributes to delayed diagnosis. When severe period pain is normalised across generations, endometriosis can remain undiagnosed for years.

The reality is that both mother and daughter may have endometriosis.

I always ask about family history. If you have significant period pain, pelvic pain, or fertility challenges, talk to your relatives. You may find shared symptoms.

Pain is often normalised.
That does not mean it is normal.

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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.