RCOG

TOG Editors Jennifer Davies, Deborah Bruce and Natalie Medley discuss the evidence base underpinning the WHO's cervical cancer elimination strategy and highlight novel approaches to the prevention, detection and treatment of cervical disease.

What does it take to build an internationally recognised surgical career? Is there a single route to success, or do the best opportunities come from embracing the unexpected? In this episode, we are joined by Professor Jan Deprest, a world-leading surgeon whose career spans fetal surgery, urogynaecology, research, innovation and surgical education across both Belgium and the UK. Together, we discuss how to develop a fulfilling surgical career, the importance of mentorship, research and international collaboration, and why innovation begins with asking the right questions. We also explore how different healthcare systems approach surgical training, the growing role of simulation and competency-based progression, and what UK trainees can learn from training models across Europe. Whether you're considering an academic career, interested in advanced surgery, or simply looking for inspiration on how to shape your own career, this episode offers practical advice and insights from one of the pioneers of modern surgical innovation.

What happens when learners and educators come together to rethink how we teach surgery? In this episode, RCOG Surgical Skills Fellows Naomi Harvey and Hannah Pierce are joined by Paul Mills, Rachel O'Donnell and Kyle Fleischer to reflect on the inaugural RCOG Surgical Train the Trainers pilot. Hear first-hand what made the course different, why investing in surgical educators has never been more important, and how this new national programme aims to strengthen surgical training across the UK. Through practical teaching strategies, shared experiences and reflections from both learners and educators, discover why participants believe developing excellent trainers is fundamental to developing the next generation of surgeons. Whether you're an educator, trainee or educational leader, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the RCOG Surgical Skills Project's newest national initiatives.

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi turn the tables and put the RCOG's Vice President for Education and Academia, Melanie Tipples, and Executive Director for Education, Carly Edwards, in the hot seat to answer the difficult questions they are asked time and time again by trainees. Together, they demystify who is responsible for key aspects of training — including curricula, study budgets, simulation, hysterectomy training, course costs and workforce planning — offering an honest insight into how decisions are made and what the future of surgical education could look like.

Are the challenges facing surgical trainees unique to O&G, or is the grass really greener in general surgery? In this episode, Hannah and Naomi are joined by Mr Raiyyan Aftab, Immediate Past President of the Association of Surgeons in Training (ASiT) and a General Surgical Trainee in Plastic Surgery, to explore the shared realities of surgical training across the UK. Together, they discuss the findings of the ASiT State of Training report, the increasing pressures of service provision, reduced operative exposure, and the balance between training and service delivery. The conversation explores whether the challenges identified through the RCOG Surgical Skills Project are unique to O&G or shared across the wider surgical community, and how organisations such as ASiT and the RCOG can work together to improve surgical education and support the next generation of surgeons. This episode is essential listening for trainees, trainers, education leads, and anyone with an interest in the future of surgical training.

In this practical and thought-provoking episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Mr James Tibbott, Mr Artur Zanellato, and Mr Srinivas Chintapallata to explore new approaches to surgical education and the future of training. Together, they discuss the value of collaboration between gynaecology and general surgery, the growing challenges facing surgical education, and how training can evolve to better prepare the next generation of surgeons. The conversation highlights the importance of teaching not only technical skills, but also decision-making, operative judgement, problem-solving, and confidence in theatre. This episode is essential listening for O&G professionals, trainees, trainers, and education leads interested in innovative ways to improve surgical learning and support the future workforce.

In this honest and empowering episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Ms Nuha Yassin to explore one of the most common yet least openly discussed challenges in medicine: imposter syndrome. A Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at University Hospitals Birmingham and Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Birmingham, Dr Yassin shares her personal experiences of self-doubt throughout training and leadership, and how she learned to navigate those feelings while building a pioneering career in robotic and minimally invasive surgery. This episode is essential listening for O&G professionals, trainees, and anyone who has ever questioned whether they are 'good enough' — offering reassurance, perspective, and practical tools to thrive in surgery with confidence.

In this energising and insightful episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Tracy-Louise Appleyard OBE — the podcast’s first OBE recipient — to explore how military medicine can transform the way we lead, train and make decisions in healthcare. A Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at North Bristol NHS Trust and Defence Consultant Adviser in Obstetrics and Gynaecology for the Royal Army Medical Services, Dr Appleyard brings decades of experience from both the NHS and military environments. She shares how service life shaped her ability to make clear decisions under pressure, understand consequence, and lead teams through uncertainty. The conversation explores why decisiveness matters, how human factors can make healthcare safer, and what it takes to create psychologically safe teams in high-pressure environments. Dr Appleyard also shares memorable lessons on protecting your “life units”, setting boundaries, and recognising when stress is about perception rather than reality.

In this inspiring episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Amy Keightley to discuss how innovation, leadership, and ambition can transform surgical opportunities beyond tertiary centres. Working at Great Western Hospital, Dr Keightley shares her journey into gynaecological oncology, her experience in a unit-led gynae-oncology role, and how she established a CMR robotic surgery service within a district general hospital. She explores the challenges of introducing advanced technology in a non-tertiary setting and why access to complex surgery should not be limited by geography.

In this reflective and energising episode of Knot to be Missed: the RCOG Surgical Skills Podcast, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Simon Frazer, paediatrician and founder of Doctors Training, to explore what makes training meaningful, sustainable and human. Simon shares his journey from clinical paediatrics into medical education, including the importance of finding the 'extra thing' that brings joy and longevity to a medical career. The conversation explores how doctors can move beyond tick-box supervision towards real mentoring, why trainers need time and support to train well, and how simple conversations — often over coffee — can transform feedback, confidence and progression. Together, they discuss the pressures facing trainees and trainers, the need to invest in educators, how to handle difficult conversations constructively, and why professional sustainability starts with boundaries, reflection and self-care.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Sarah Maling to explore how innovative thinking can unlock new surgical training opportunities. Dr Maling shares how she helped create access to high-volume surgical training outside traditional NHS settings, ensuring trainees could continue to gain hands-on operative experience safely and effectively. Her work offers valuable lessons for all specialties facing reduced theatre exposure and increasing pressure on training opportunities. Together, they discuss what happens when clinical demand shifts away from traditional training environments, and how educators can respond with practical, collaborative solutions that protect both patient care and trainee development.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey speak with Dr Rebecca McKay, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist and the associate dean for abortion training, about the future of surgical abortion training in the UK. They explore how abortion care has evolved, what this means for current and future trainees, and the dual need for emergency skills and a elective sustainable consultant workforce. Dr McKay shares her vision for improving access to training—particularly in collaboration with the independent sector—and outlines practical solutions to current barriers. An insightful listen for anyone interested in shaping inclusive, competent, and future-ready abortion care services.

Every surgeon remembers their first truly unwell patient — the adrenaline, the uncertainty, the weight of getting it right. Miss Christine Ang joins us to talk about how CCrISP and emergency simulation give trainees the closest thing to experience before the real crisis hits. Christine shares what she’s learned from directing the course, the barriers trainees face in the current system, and why simulation isn’t a 'nice extra' — it’s essential preparation for the realities of modern practice. Whether you’re early in training or decades into your career, this episode will change the way you think about emergency care.

O&G staff are commonly exposed to psychologically traumatic events at work. In some cases, these experiences can trigger post-traumatic stress symptoms. Pauline explains the key set of symptoms that characterise post-traumatic stress and the impact these symptoms can have on organisations, staff and the patients in their care. Laura Goodfellow offers a detailed overview of the Good Practice Paper, which provides a framework for the prevention, identification and treatment of PTSS symptoms. She discusses how this supports employers to minimise the impact of traumatic events on staff, and ultimately to improve patient care. Laura Goodfellow and Pauline worked alongside colleagues Andrew Weeks, Kaylee Shean and Helen Spiby to co-author the RCOG Good Practice Paper on the prevention and treatment of work-related post-traumatic stress symptoms in the maternity and gynaecology workforce. In this episode, they speak to Laura Hipple about post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in the O&G workforce and delve into the content of the paper. We'd like to give a content warning for this episode, which discusses themes of work-related trauma and post-traumatic stress symptoms throughout. If this topic is triggering for you, you may wish to listen to one of our other podcasts instead.

In this episode, Laura Hipple and Kirsty Dundas discuss the value of peer support in our specialty. Kirsty shares insight into the peer support initiative in place at NHS Lothian in Scotland, which is offered to staff affected by adverse events in obstetrics and gynaecology. Kirsty explains what peer support is and what it isn’t, provides an overview of how it was set up in NHS Lothian, and reflects on why peer support initiatives are invaluable to supporting staff. We'd like to give a content warning for this episode, as it touches on the themes of trauma and adverse events. If these topics are triggering for you, you may wish to listen to one of our other podcasts.

he RCOG is committed to working towards racial equity in the UK, through listening to our membership, raising awareness and sharing examples of good practice that can overcome differential attainment and workplace discrimination. In this episode, Laura Hipple and Farah Siddiqui celebrate the launch of the RCOG’s Race equity in the workforce resource. Farah summarises the College’s work in this area over the last three years that led to the development of an eLearning package, including gaining member insights from across the UK. This free resource, hosted on RCOG Learning, is designed to empower every member of staff, at every level, to be a part of meaningful change, not just in conversation, but also through action. Farah explains what is included in the six modules and highlights how everyone can play their part in cultivating psychologically safe environments that benefit both staff and patients.

In this episode, Susie Crowe talks to co-founder of Psych Safety, Tom Geraghty, about what psychological safety is and why it is important in healthcare. Susie and Tom discuss how we can cultivate psychologically safe teams in obstetrics and gynaecology by modelling psychological safety, encouraging all members of the team to ask questions, flattening the hierarchy and providing people with the space and time to reflect, communicate and contribute in their own individual way.

The RCOG Surgical Skills Project is only possible thanks to the extraordinary support of Hologic®, a global leader in women’s health innovation. In this episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Ailsa Ormerod, whose clinical background and education expertise give her a powerful lens on what women’s healthcare needs next. We explore how Hologic’s mission aligns with improving surgical training, why their investment in education is so impactful, and how their portfolio is shaping modern clinical practice. Ailsa also reflects on her experiences in the UK and Australia, offering valuable insights into the differences in training and the opportunities ahead. If you want to understand the real-world impact of industry–college collaboration, and why Hologic’s role is so central to the future of O&G surgery, this episode delivers both clarity and inspiration.

In this episode, Ganga Verma speaks to Katharine Backhouse and Ellie Carlisle about their involvement in establishing wellbeing initiatives in Wessex. They outline the rationale for setting up trainee open discussion groups and running a wellbeing-themed teaching day, to equip doctors with the tools they need to care for themselves and empower them to prioritise their own wellbeing. Katharine and Ellie share insight into the benefits these have had on the workforce, reflect on the challenges as well as the successes, and provide tips for other deaneries who may be considering introducing similar initiatives in their regions.

Incivility and poor workplace behaviours can hinder psychological safety and impact team morale, effective communication, and overall team performance. These permissive environments can lead to defensive practice, high stress, burnout, and sickness.  In this episode, Laura Hipple, Ganga Verma, and Susie Crowe discuss the importance of promoting positive workplace behaviours in our specialty, for both staff and patient safety, and explain the impact that poor workplace behaviours can have on the workforce. Ganga and Susie share more about their role as RCOG Workplace Behaviour Advisors and offer insight into the breadth of the RCOG’s ‘Supporting our Doctors’ portfolio, including signposting to key resources that can support you throughout your career.

In this special episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Mr Fevzi Shakir, Consultant Gynaecologist and Chair of the Local Organising Committee for the BSGE Annual Scientific Meeting 2026, to explore his journey into advanced endoscopic surgery, the principles that shape high-quality surgical training, and the future direction of skills development in obstetrics and gynaecology. The conversation reflects on the impact of the RCOG Surgical Skills Project, the role of national organisations in supporting trainees and educators, and what makes ASMs such an important opportunity for trainees to develop their surgical skills, highlighting how networking, community, and informal learning play a vital role alongside technical excellence. With insights for trainees, trainers, and early-career consultants alike, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and opportunities for further surgical skill development.

Surgical training has long relied on observation, opportunity, and the occasional raised eyebrow. In this episode, we explore a novel approach: an interactive, AI-enabled simulation that allows trainees to talk through decisions, explore anatomy in 3D, and receive immediate feedback — all outside the operating theatre. We’re joined by Dr Sophie Bracke, an Obstetrics and Gynaecology registrar with a passion for leadership, innovation, and education, to discuss the development of this project and what it could mean for confidence, competence, and the future of surgical training.

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi sit down with Dr Veronica Lerner, Director of Simulation at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York and one of the leading voices in surgical education. Veronica shares her journey into minimally invasive surgery, how her experiences shaped her passion for simulation, and what the UK can learn from the US approach to validated training systems like FLS and EMIGS. She gives a fresh, transatlantic insight into the future of simulation, how it can transform training quality, and why structured, high-fidelity practice is essential for the next generation of surgeons. A must-listen for anyone interested in where O&G surgical training is heading!

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi speak with Hans Nagar, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist at Belfast City Hospital, and Courtney McMullan, Subspecialty Trainee in Gynaecological Oncology, to explore the growing role of dual (buddy) operating in modern surgical practice. Drawing on their recently published paper on buddy operating in gynae-oncology, Hans and Courtney discuss how working as paired surgeons can improve patient outcomes, enhance safety, and strengthen the learning environment for both trainees and consultants. They reflect on its impact on operative performance, professional development, reducing burnout, and fostering a more open and collaborative theatre culture. Listen to hear how buddy operating is shaping the future of surgical training and team-based practice.

A key recommendation in the workforce of the future focus is review of complex obstetric operating and training. In this episode, the Surgical Skills Fellows are joined by Dr Alison Wright, Mr Albaro Jose Nieto Calvache and Dr Kat Barton to discuss the challenges in this area of O&G operating. ​ They discuss the introduction of a standardized protocol to enhance safety during challenging caesarean sections, focusing on reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. Key surgical strategies include improved pelvic access in cases of adhesions, safer bladder mobilization, and targeted control of postpartum hemorrhage through detailed anatomical guidance. They emphasise early risk identification, team preparedness, simulation-based training, and continuous surgical outcome evaluation to foster a culture of safety and excellence in obstetric care.

This episode comes with a twist: Professor Ranee Thakar steps in as guest-host to interview Surgical Skills Fellows Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey. Together they explore the highs, hurdles, and heartfelt moments of the RCOG Surgical Skills Project — from early-phase challenges to nationwide insights and what lies ahead in Phase 3. Expect thoughtful reflections, honest conversations, and just enough humour to keep the stitches neat.

In this episode, hosts Naomi and Hannah speak with Alan Horgan, consultant colorectal surgeon and surgical educator at Newcastle Hospitals. Alan shares his experience leading the UK’s first structured robotic surgery training programme, developed in partnership with the Royal College of Surgeons and Intuitive Surgical. The discussion explores the future of robotic education, the importance of multidisciplinary team training, and how O&G can adopt similar models to prepare for the next generation of surgical innovation. Listen for insights on how to build skills in robotics, access training opportunities, and sustain learning throughout their careers.

In this episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Professor Malcolm Munro, Clinical Professor of O&G at UCLA and a global leader in minimally invasive gynaecologic surgery. Together, they delve into the development and impact of the EMIGS platform—a validated surgical training and assessment program now required for board certification in the U.S. Professor Munro shares insights from the landmark validation study, discusses how simulation can accelerate skill acquisition, and reflects on the evolving role of structured training in improving surgical outcomes. A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of competency-based surgical education.

How do you teach the teachers? In this episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey chat with Mr Tom Ind about what makes a great surgical trainer. From feedback tips and adult learning theory to simulation and psychological safety, they uncover the secrets to training the next generation of surgeons. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your skills, this conversation is full of practical takeaways.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Yvonne Neubauer, Deputy Medical Director at MSI Reproductive Choices, to explore the evolving landscape of surgical abortion training in the independent sector. They discuss the impact of shifting service provision on training opportunities, address common misconceptions about access to training outside the NHS, and highlight successful initiatives bridging that gap—like the Bristol-based programme. Whether you're early in your career or considering how abortion care might fit into your consultant role, this is an essential listen on ensuring future O&G professionals are confident and prepared to deliver compassionate, safe abortion care.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Dr Ganga Verma, consultant obstetrician and RCOG workplace behaviour co-advisor, to delve into the critical role of civility and psychological safety in surgical training. Together, they unpack what incivility looks like in the theatre environment, how it impacts learning and team dynamics, and what steps individuals and institutions can take to foster supportive, high-performing surgical teams. Whether you're a trainer, trainee, or team leader, this is a must-listen conversation on creating a safer, more respectful culture in O&G.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey sit down with Mr Elliot Street—award-winning clinician and CEO of Inovus Medical—to explore the power of innovation in transforming surgical training. From the early gaps he experienced as a trainee to leading a medtech company that's reshaping how surgeons learn, Elliot shares insights on simulation, the role of AI in personalised skill development, and the global impact of scalable, accessible training tools.

In this episode, hosts Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Miss Nahid Gul, a leading consultant in gynaecological pelvic laparoscopic and robotic surgery. Together, they explore Miss Gul’s inspiring career journey—from her early days in obstetrics and gynaecology to her pioneering work in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. With insights into training, mentorship, and the evolving future of surgical practice in the UK, this conversation offers a compelling look at innovation, leadership, and the transformative potential of technology in women's health.

In this episode, Hannah Pierce and Naomi Harvey are joined by Miss Karolina Afors - Consultant Minimally Invasive Surgeon, BSGE Council Member, and Chief Mentor for the GESEA Programme - to explore the growing role of simulation in surgical training. They dive into the principles and impact of the GESEA certification, discuss findings from recent research on laparoscopic skill development, and reflect on the future of minimally invasive gynaecology. With practical insights into how simulation complements real-life surgery and what trainees need to thrive, this episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone passionate about advancing surgical education in O&G.

Long gynaecology waiting lists, workforce shortages and the increasing complexity of surgeries have limited residents' exposure to surgical skills practice and training. We need to reprioritise surgical training through earlier focus on endoscopic training. by increasing adaptability in training and through investment in innovative technologies that support residents in accessing training opportunities. Simulation training has become a vital tool for surgical skills acquisition, providing a safe, controlled environment where doctors can practice procedures without risking patient safety. We will examine how we can embed simulation training into the RCOG curriculum and will establish a Simulation Working Group to ensure equal access to training. In this episode, Hannah and Naomi discuss the third focus of the Surgical Skills project - Re-prioritising surgical training - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

BTA birth story - Jacqueline P2 by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Investing in gynaecology surgical trainers and mentors is vital for the development of highly skilled, confident, and competent surgeons in the field. It is crucial that protected time and funding be provided by deaneries and trusts to allow educators to continue delivering high-quality training. In this episode, Hannah and Naomi discuss the final focus of the surgical skills project – Investing in educators – and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

In this episode, Hannah and Naomi discuss the fourth focus of the Surgical Skills project - lifelong learning - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project. New consultants and specialists often face the challenge of continuing their surgical skills acquisition in an environment where surgical opportunities may belimited by clinical responsibilities, rota pressures and increasing patient demands. Protected time and support are required for ongoing surgical skills maintenance and development. The next phase of the project will explore the role of fellowships.

Simulation training has become a vital tool for surgical skills acquisition, providing a safe, controlled environment where doctors can practice procedures without risking patient safety. We will examine how we can embed simulation training into the RCOG curriculum and will establish a Simulation Working Group to ensure equal access to training. In this episode, Hannah and Naomi discuss the second focus of the surgical skills project - Simulation and virtual learning - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

Our future workforce faces significant challenges in meeting the demands of an evolving healthcare landscape and the increasing complexity of patient needs. We must be strategic in supporting our workforce to match changing trends bу developing strong progressive career support for each resident doctor and ensuring we proactively develop a workforce capable of managing increased surgical complexity. In this episode, Hannah and Naomi discuss the first focus of the surgical skills project - workforce of the future - and what we will be working on in the next phase of the project.

In our first episode the surgical skills fellows (Hannah Pierce & Naomi Harvey) talk to RCOG president, Ranee Thakar, and RCOG Vice President for Education, Ian Scudamore, on how the surgical skills project came to be and their own personal experiences of surgical skills training. The following bitesize episodes will do a deeper dive into each of the five chapters of the surgical skills interim report. Highlighting the key findings and generating conversation on some of the potential solutions to be taken forward in the next phase of the project.

Assessments- A Trainee’s Perspective - Hannah Pierce by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

The Global Judgement Process - Dr Alastair Campbell FRCOG by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Assessments In The O&G Curriculum - Dr Alastair Campbell FRCOG by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

The Global Judgement Process - Dr Fiona Clarke FRCOG by Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

This information is for you if you have pelvic organ prolapse and want to know more about it. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/pelvic-organ-prolapse/

This information is for you if you want to know more about nausea and vomiting of pregnancy or about hyperemesis gravidarum, which is the most severe form of the condition. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website:https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/pregnancy-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy-and-hyperemesis-gravidarum/

This information is for you if you are pregnant and are thinking of travelling by air. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/air-travel-and-pregnancy/

This information is for you if you have been diagnosed with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), also known as obstetric cholestasis. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/intrahepatic-cholestasis-of-pregnancy/

This information is for you if you want to know about having a cervical stitch, which is also called cervical cerclage. Links to further information are available on the RCOG website: https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/cervical-stitch/