A placental abruption occurs in pregnant women when the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus before the baby has been born. Also known as abruptio placenta, this is an emergency that can threaten the life of both mother and baby.…

Miscarriage is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before it has reached 20 weeks’ gestation. If a loss of pregnancy occurs after 20 weeks, it is known as a stillbirth. Miscarriages often occur without any obvious cause. When a pregnancy ends prematurely, it can be very distressing; however, counselling and support are available.…

Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is the infection of a woman’s reproductive organs and surrounding pelvic tissues. It occurs most commonly when a sexually-transmitted infection spreads beyond the vagina to internal pelvic organs. This can lead to long-term complications if not recognised and treated early.…

Stones can form in the kidney and move into other parts of the urinary tract. Large kidney stones can get stuck causing extreme pain, blood in the urine and/or kidney failure. Often, ultrasound waves can be used to break up kidney stones.…

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.…

Constipation is a common condition, in which bowel movements are not regular and stools become difficult to pass. There are many causes. Treatments include drinking more fluids, a diet high in fibre, more physical activity and, when needed, medications.…