Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?

I initially studied medicine in Russia, in the historic and very picturesque city of Novgorod, which is around 185 kms south of St Petersburg. I completed my medical degree, there as well as a specialist qualification in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2007. After this, I moved to Australia and gained accreditation from the Australian Medical Council.

After a break where I started a family, I spent a couple of years as a lecturer to International Medical Graduates, then commenced working in medicine in Melbourne at the start of 2012. At the start of 2017 I moved to Canberra for my Australian obstetrics and gynaecology training. I returned to Melbourne in 2021, and completed my training at the Royal Women’s Hospital, and Northern Hospital. In addition to my private work, I currently work almost full-time at the Northern Hospital (in Epping), in both obstetrics and gynaecology. I am also a clinical teaching fellow with the University of Melbourne medical school.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself, on a personal level?

I was born and raised in Russia, and spent all of my school/university years there and, as such, I am fluent in Russian. I now consider Australia my second home, as I’ve been here for over 17 years; I became a proud Australian citizen in 2012. I am married to an Australian husband (who I met in Prague), and we have two wonderful children who are growing up way too fast! The fifth member of our family is our beautiful chocolate-brown border collie who I believe can do everything apart from reading!

I love to travel with my family, which we do whenever we can get away. Apart from holidays, we try to do regular day trips around our wonderful state of Victoria. When in Melbourne, I love most activities with my family: from simple but very long walks with our dog to attending the theatre, candle light concerts, seeing a movie, playing charades and multitude of old fashioned board games. A slightly off beat hobby is driving my family nuts by attempting “character building” escape rooms: we have completed these across Australia, and even overseas!

What areas of women’s health do you specialise in / what areas are you particularly passionate about?

I like all areas of women health, but I feel menstrual disorders, contraception, pre-pregnancy counselling, and abnormal cervical screening test requiring colposcopy are my favourites.

What made you decide to become part of the Maven Centre team?

It was a privilege and a great compliment to be invited to join the Maven Centre. I love the concept of single place where all types of gynaecological presentations can be seen and sorted as a one-stop shop.

All the clinicians here have similar values and work ethic, and can contribute to every patient’s care as well as encourage learning and thriving amongst us.

Can you discuss a particularly rewarding or memorable experience you’ve had working with a patient? What did you learn from that experience?

I don’t think I can pick a single interaction. Most days when I arrive home my son will ask: “Did you save someone today?” Let’s face it, most days the answer will be “no”, but I like to think that I can make a difference every day. I am strong believer that being kind, considerate, understanding, willing to help, and being humble for being given the opportunity to help someone goes a long way, and is rewarding for both patients and clinician alike.

What can patients expect when they come to see you?

I will certainly take time and ask multiple questions around the patient’s issue/concern. When I teach medical students, I tell them that a good doctor keeps more combinations in their head than a chess player. History and examination are an important part of every consultation and they can’t be rushed, as they are the key for diagnosis.

I am a strong believer that gynaecology is not black and white: there is often more than one way to manage a condition, and it is important that patients are aware of all options so they can make an informed decision, which is right for them.

How do you work to empower women to take charge of their own health and wellbeing?

By being open, busting the myths, discussing taboo topics, encouraging questions and making people comfortable talking about women’s health.