Our latest episode in the podcast series, presented by NGEN members, dives into a topic that isn’t often discussed—pediatric and adolescent gynecology.
This episode features a fascinating conversation between Dr Jemma Johns, a Consultant Gynecologist with expertise in managing early pregnancy problems and gynecological ultrasound, and Dr Maya Al-Memar, a Consultant Gynecologist specialising in complex benign gynecology, and acute diagnostic services.
The discussion covers how Dr Johns first ventured into pediatric and adolescent gynecology, with Dr Al-Memar leading the questions. They explore the skill set needed to work in an area that’s often outside the typical medical comfort zone. A key takeaway from their conversation is the rewarding aspect of working in this field and interacting with young girls, where their gynecological expertise can change and influence the experience of symptoms and management for their young patients.
This episode is truly illuminating as it dives deeper into the unique challenges present when caring for young girls, highlighting how consultations and approaches differ from those for adult patients. The duo discusses the important nuances in caring for adolescent patients, offering insights into how to adapt care for this specialised group.
Special considerations arise when using ultrasound imaging in pediatric and adolescent gynecology. One of the biggest challenges is deciding whether to perform an ultrasound at all, as not every patient requires imaging. Clinicians must ask thoughtful and sensitive questions to determine whether the scan is necessary and ensure the patient feels comfortable with the process. Often, the value of scanning lies in providing reassurance when everything appears normal, which can provide immense relief to both patients and their families.
The episode ends on a final piece of advice when caring for young patients: take the time to assess the situation carefully, as emergencies are rare. Collaborate with colleagues, consult when needed, and remember that this field offers a rewarding and impactful experience. Ultimately, it's a privilege to positively shape young people's lives and their understanding of women's health.
Find the podcast episode on Apple or Spotify here:
This Podcast episode features:
Maya Al-Memar is a Consultant Gynaecologist at Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, with specialist clinical interests in complex benign gynaecology, acute diagnostic services including early pregnancy and acute gynaecology, rapid access for suspected gynaecological cancer, and paediatric & adolescent gynaecology. She completed her training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in North-West London including specialty training at Queen Charlotte’s and Chelsea Hospital, and St Mary’s Hospital. Having worked in the largest gynaecology & reproductive medicine service in London at Imperial, she has experience in managing complex patients. Her focus is to provide the best possible care for women using high quality diagnostics ultrasound skills to streamline care. She graduated from Imperial College School of Medicine with first class honours in 2007, where she also completed her PhD and is now an honorary clinical lecturer. She is widely published in peer-reviewed journals. She currently has on-going research projects in the fields of early pregnancy, miscarriage, ovarian cysts and use of ultrasound to improve diagnosis of ovarian masses.
Country: UK
Field: Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Specialties: Early pregnancy and gynaecology imaging, adnexal masses, paediatric and adolescent gynaecology
Languages: English, Arabic