Dr Pagano obtained his medical degree from The University of Melbourne (MB, BS). After a residency in general medicine and surgery at St Vincent’s Hospital, he trained as a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at The Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne. He then obtained further specialist qualifications from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (U.K) and spent two years in London gaining valuable training and experience. 

Dr Pagano was also awarded two Tracy Maund Travelling Scholarships by The Royal Women’s Hospital early in his career. The first was to study laser treatment for managing abnormal pap smears and pre-cancerous conditions of the vulva. This experience was instrumental in Dr Pagano establishing the first gynaecological laser treatment service in Victoria, for treating abnormal pap smears. Since then, his knowledge and experience has revolutionised laser gynaecological treatment practices. 

The second scholarship allowed him to visit a number of specific vulvar disorders clinics in the UK, Italy and USA. This was in preparation for a similar clinic here in Melbourne.  Upon his return, Dr Pagano was responsible for establishing the first multidisciplinary Benign Vulvar Disorders Clinic at The Royal Women’s Hospital, for which he is still the Head Consultant.

Dr Pagano was the Head of the public DES Follow Up Clinic at The Royal Women’s Hospital for 30 years. Diethylstilboestrol (DES) was prescribed to pregnant women from the 1940’s to the early 1970’s to prevent miscarriage and other pregnancy related complications. Patients who were exposed to the chemical DES in utro, have an in increased risk of cervical and vaginal cancers and other health conditions. 

Dr Pagano was also the first doctor in Australia to use (and publish on the use of) Topical Amitriptyline cream in the management of Provoked Vestibulodynia. A treatment that changed the lives of many women living with this condition. 

Dr Pagano has been a supervisor and lectured medical students at The University of Melbourne.  He has also assessed, trained and mentored many trainee Obstetricians and Gynaecologists throughout his career.