Welcome to your dose of health and wellness information. Here, we'll dive into practical tips, evidence-based advice and the latest developments in different fields of medicine.

Mass General Brigham has had the privilege of caring for thousands of Bermudian patients in Boston over the years, spanning a wide variety of conditions and complexities.

Women’s healthcare is evolving rapidly, from minimally invasive surgery and personalised menopause care to advances in endometriosis research. This month, Nawal Nour, discusses key developments in women’s health and what she expects to see next.

What areas of women’s healthcare have seen the biggest advances in recent years?

We have seen advancements in post-partum mental healthcare for the fourth trimester, prenatal screening that includes genetics with counselling, gynaecological surgery that is minimally invasive for diseases such as endometriosis and fibroids and maternal monitoring at home. We have also seen AI and digital innovations that enable our patients to be followed remotely with data transmitted to the right providers.

What can surgeons do today through small incisions that would once have required much more invasive surgery?

This is an exciting time: we can now do hysterectomies, large fibroids and cancers through a dime-sized opening instead of a major incision, either laparoscopically or with a robot.

What developments could lead to a major breakthrough in the next five to ten years?

We're really making significant discoveries when it comes to endometriosis. We're focusing on non-invasive testing and expanding genetic maps. We're also exploring repurposing drugs for symptom management.

Are there newer treatments for menopause symptoms that women should know about?

We are redefining hormone therapy and expanding the range of non-hormonal treatments available for women experiencing menopause symptoms, including newer localised therapies that can effectively target specific concerns while minimising systemic effects. One of the most important developments in recent years has been a better understanding of the benefits, risks and appropriate use of hormone therapy based on an individual woman’s age, health profile and stage of menopause.

The good news is that many effective treatments already exist but were historically underutilised or not offered to women who could have benefited from them. Newer non-hormonal medications are providing additional options for women who cannot or prefer not to use hormones.

If you would like to request an appointment or learn more about care at Mass General Brigham, contact our international patient services team at patientcare@mgb.org or visit MassGeneralBrigham.org/Bermuda. If part of your care planning includes insurance, we recommend speaking with your insurance company before requesting an appointment.

Dr Nawal Nour is chair of obstetrics and gynaecology at Mass General Brigham.