Episode 26: A WELL WOMAN SPECIAL, with Dr Olivia Gonzalez

KEY TOPICS: 2 births, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes, induction, weight, natural deliveries, anxiety, pandemic, autism parent, positivity, general practitioner

 

This special episode is in two parts, with General Practitioner Dr Olivia Gonzalez. In the first half she gives an overview of her professional background, and the services at the GHA Well Woman clinic where she's worked since 2020. Olivia explains how to book an appointment, what to expect on attendance, and gives great advice on discussing sensitive topics such as menopause, periods, fertility, contraception and postnatal care. She mentions some useful resources, outlined in the notes below.

 

In the second half, Olivia shares the two birth stories of her boys. She experienced a good first pregnancy and natural delivery, before settling into family life... just as the pandemic hit. Olivia speaks very openly about the challenges of managing anxiety and adjusting to her son's autism diagnosis.

 

Her second pregnancy followed a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with gestational diabetes, requiring dietary management. Deemed high risk, Olivia was encouraged to have a caesarean - but her son had other ideas! Immediately after both births Olivia felt physically well, and she speaks so fondly about the support from her husband and family. 

 

There's lots of sensible advice and positivity in this episode, with a real emphasis on self-kindness. I'm very grateful to Olivia for sharing her valuable professional experience and honest birth stories here. (Recorded May 2025).

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To contact the GHA Well Woman clinic, call 2000 7842 or use the egov.gi portal

The National Autistic Society Early Bird Parenting https://www.autism.org.uk

Local charity PossAbilities: https://possabilities-gib.com

NHS health advice: https://patient.info

Tommys pregnancy & baby charity: https://www.tommys.org

Find 'Born on the Rock: Gibraltar Birth Stories' on Facebook and Instagram for more

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