Gynaecologist

A gynaecologist is a medical specialist who specialises in gynaecology. Gynaecology is the speciality concerned with women's diseases and conditions, particularly conditions affecting the reproductive and sexual organs. For this reason, a gynaecologist is also known as a women's health doctor.

What does a gynaecologist do?

A gynaecologist examines, supports and treats women's diseases and conditions. A gynaecologist supports women in unusual circumstances during pregnancy. They also treat all problems involving the reproductive and sexual organs. Examples include:

• Problems becoming pregnant
• Menstrual problems
• Incontinence
• Prolapse
• Menopausal complaints
• Pelvic floor problems
• Abnormal cervical smear test
• Contraception
• Cervical cancer
• Endometriosis (growth of tissue on the peritoneum and/or other organs in the lower abdomen)
• Complaints affecting the vulva (labia and clitoris)
• Fibroids
• STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
• Fallopian tube inflammation
• Vaginal discharge

A gynaecologist often has a specialism, for example obstetrics, cancer care or pelvic floor problems.

How do you see a gynaecologist?

The GP writes a referral to a gynaecologist. It is not possible to see a gynaecologist without a referral. When making an appointment at the hospital, the assistant will often ask about your complaints. This ensures that you are booked in with the right gynaecologist.

What is a first appointment with a gynaecologist like?

A gynaecologist will first discuss your complaints with you. Questions will also be asked about your general health and menstruation. This is usually followed by a physical examination.

What does an examination by a gynaecologist involve?

An examination by a gynaecologist may consist of an external and an internal examination. During the first examination, various things may be done, including:

1. Examining the external organs, such as the vulva.
2. Inserting a speculum (metal dilator) into the vagina. This allows the cervix to be examined and a smear test to be taken.
3. Feeling the reproductive organs internally. Using two gloved fingers, the gynaecologist feels the uterus and ovaries.
4. Performing an ultrasound scan. This can be external (pregnancy scans) or internal. During an external scan, the ultrasound probe is placed on the abdomen. During an internal scan, the probe is inserted into the vagina. Sound waves create an image that can be seen immediately on a screen.

It is perfectly normal to feel tense before an examination by a gynaecologist. Tell the gynaecologist or assistant. It is important that you can relax as much as possible. If it would make you feel more comfortable, you can ask for a female gynaecologist.

How can you prepare for your first visit to a gynaecologist?

There are various things you can do yourself, mainly to help you relax as much as possible.

• Make an appointment when you are not having your period. It makes no difference to the examination or the gynaecologist, but you will usually feel more comfortable.
• Try pelvic floor relaxation exercises. The better you can relax, the less discomfort you will experience during the examination.
• Go to the toilet before the examination. An empty bladder makes the examination much easier and more comfortable.
• Wear comfortable clothing. You will need to remove your underwear during the examination. If you are wearing a skirt or dress, removing tights or leggings is sufficient.
• Try to relax in the waiting room by reading, listening to music or doing breathing exercises.
• Bring a sanitary towel or panty liner. You may lose a little blood after the examination.

What treatments does a gynaecologist provide?

A gynaecologist can provide various treatments, such as:

• Assistance during childbirth
• Insertion of an intrauterine device
• Sterilisation
• IVF treatment (in-vitro fertilisation)
• Surgical treatment
• Curettage (cleaning the uterus)
• Prescribing medication
• Providing advice and support

Who does a gynaecologist work with?

A gynaecologist works with other doctors and specialists. A pelvic health physiotherapist is a physiotherapist who specialises in examining, treating and helping to prevent complaints affecting the pelvis, abdomen, lower back and pelvic floor. Pelvic health physiotherapy may form part of the treatment prescribed by the gynaecologist. However, you can also see a pelvic health physiotherapist without a referral from a gynaecologist or GP.