Who is a gynaecologist?
A gynaecologist is a doctor who specialises in women’s health. The main focus of gynaecologists is the female reproductive system, and they treat patients with female reproductive parts whether or not they identify as women. Gynaecologists handle a wide range of female issues including
- Menstruation
- Fertility issues
- Childbirth
- Pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Hormone disorders and so many others
Most women prefer to visit a private gynaecologist in London rather than their family doctor for their general health needs.Most of them start visiting a gynaecologist from their early teenage age.
A qualified gynaecologist first trains to be a doctor for 4 years then goes on to specialise in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology for another 4 years. After this, they have to pass an examination to become registered and certified by the necessary bodies to practice.
An obstetrician is a gynaecologist who specialises in pregnancy and childbirth.
When to See a Gynaecologist:
Women are advised to see their gynaecologist every year for their routine check-up. You can also contact your gynaecologist when you are concerned about symptoms like vulvar, vaginal and pelvic pain or when you experience abnormal bleeding from the uterus.
Gynaecologists handle the following, and you should visit one for any of these conditions
- Issues relating to fertility, menstruation, and menopause
- Family planning, pregnancy, sterilisation, and pregnancy termination
- STIs
- Urinary and faecal incontinence
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Problems with tissues, muscles, and ligaments that support the pelvic organs
- Sexual dysfunction
- Pelvic inflammatory diseases including abscesses
- Emergency gynaecology care
- Sexuality including health issues relating to the same sex and bisexual relationships
- Endometriosis – a chronic condition that affects the reproductive system
- Congenital abnormalities of the female reproductive tract
- Cancer of the reproductive tract, breast, and pregnancy-related tumours
- Benign conditions of the reproductive system such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, breast disorders, vaginal or vaginal ulcers, and non-cancerous changes
- Premalignant conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia and cervical dysplasia
Gynaecologists can also offer general health care, including preventive medicine for women, lifestyle advice concerning weight loss amongst others. They diagnose and treat women having health issues like headache, acne, mood changes, and low back pain.
Your gynaecologist may also offer treatment for
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Thyroid disorders and other hormonal issues
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Psychiatric conditions such as depression and personality disorders
- Domestic violence and sexual assault
At what age can I see a gynaecologist?
A gynaecologist offers treatment for girls and women of all ages. It is recommended that girls start visiting a gynaecologist from the age of 13 – 15. When a girl starts vising a gynaecologist from an early age, she becomes more comfortable and open to ask questions and discuss issues such as menstruation and sexuality with the gynaecologist. This also gives the gynaecologist a better opportunity to guide the woman’s welfare in the long term through their counselling sessions.
What to expect:
What would happen during your visit to the gynaecologist depends on the reason for your visit. If it is your first visit, the gynaecologist will get your general health information and chat with you about your general welfare and what you expect in the future
Generally, during your visits to the gynaecologist, you should be honest about your lifestyle and health problems. This would give the gynaecologist a better understanding of your situation to know how best to help you. You may also get a gynaecological examination and a pap smear.
You do not have to wax or shave before your visit but try to avoid sexual activity or using a vaginal douche for 2 days before your gynaecological examination. If you are on your period on the day of our appointment, you can still go ahead with it or call to postpone the appointment. You can have someone come with you for your appointment if you are comfortable with it.
Screening:
You should consult with your gynaecologist at least once a year for your annual check-up which would involve
- A physical exam to measure your standard vital signs and body mass index, assess your overall health, palpate your abdomen and inguinal lymph nodes
- Immunisations based on your risk factors and age
- Screening, evaluation, and advice
- Pelvic and breast examination depending on your age
- Blood or urine tests
Theseregular visits and check-up will enable you to maintain a healthy lifestyle and minimise your health risks.
Common procedures
Gynaecologists are trained to carry out certain common procedures which include
- Pap smear tests
- Ultrasound scan
- Hysteroscopy
- Endometrial biopsy
- Colposcopy
They also carry out the following surgical tasks
- Minor surgeries like sterilisation
- Laparoscopy
- Preparing patients for surgery
- Major surgery like removal of fibroids in the uterus
They also provide post-operative care and are involved in other surgical conditions such as bowel obstruction.
Contact today at Gynae UK for your routine check-up. Our private gynaecologist Harley street prices are affordable, and you are sure to receive quality care. Call us now on 020 718 0692 to book an appointment.