Whether it’s your first gynaecology visit or your third, many women feel hesitant and apprehensive about their visit due to concerns about embarrassment. If you’ve been already you’ll know it’s nowhere near as nerve-wracking as expected. However, if it’s your first time, knowing what to expect when you go to the gynaecologist can help to put your mind at ease.
We want to empower you to take charge of your health. Gynaecological health is just as important as the rest of your body and we hope that this article will go a way to demystifying gynaecological visits to help reduce that anxiety. One of the many benefits of regular gynaecology visits is that it can lead to potentially serious health conditions being picked up early on when they are easier to treat, giving you peace of mind.
When you might need to see a gynaecologist
Gynaecologists can help with a wide range of pelvic and reproductive concerns. Unsure when to see a gynaecologist? Take a look through the list below for symptoms that might indicate you should book an appointment for further investigation.
- Your periods are very painful
- Your periods are very heavy, or you don’t have any bleeding
- You have bleeding or pain outside of the menstrual cycle
- Your menstrual cycle is irregular or lasts a long longer than ‘average’
- You want to check your pelvic health
- You have reached perimenopause or menopause and want a health check
- You are experiencing frequent UTIs
- You get pain during or after sex
- Vaginal penetration causes you discomfort or pain
- You have signs of STIs (for example, itching, sores, bumps in the genital area)
- You have a new partner and want to be checked for STIs
- Your discharge is green, grey, yellow or smelly.
- You have menopausal symptoms such as vaginal dryness
- You want to get pregnant and want to check you have no issues around your fertility
- You want a baby scan
- You want to discuss options for contraception
- You have a family history of ovarian, uterine, cervical cancer, or breast cancer and want to get checked early for peace of mind.
But you may also need to see a gynaecologist if:
- You have a diagnosed condition that might have an impact on your fertility like endometriosis or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- You are having trouble getting pregnant
- You have made the decision to terminate an unwanted pregnancy
Many individuals’ first step would be to see their GP and then be referred to a gynaecologist, however, with long NHS waiting lists, many women prefer not to wait for peace of mind, especially for time sensitive issues. A growing number of women are seeking help via a private gynaecologist in London or elsewhere in the UK because they can be seen quickly and it gives them the option to choose their consultant, the clinic and location.
Common gynaecological conditions
In the UK, some of the most common gynaecological conditions include heavy (menorrhea) and painful periods (dysmenorrhea), fibroids, and PCOS. Approximately 2 in 3 women will develop a uterine fibroid in their life, according to the Royal College of Gynaecologists (RCOG). These conditions can have a significant impact on the daily lives of women.
The good news is that a gynaecologist can help with all of these. However, unfortunately the non-specific symptoms can mean that diagnosis can take a while, however, private gynaecologists can speed things up for you.
What happens at the gynaecologist
On arrival you’ll check in. If you’re at a private gynaecology clinic you’ll likely have forms to fill out with basic information to register on their system, if this isn’t something you’ve already done in advance.
The majority of initial consultations will include discussion about your medical history, any concerns you have and symptoms you are experiencing. Depending on what brings you in, you may also require an examination. It is also common to have an internal or external ultrasound, but this is not always needed and it very much depends on what you are seeking advice for.
If you have any concerns about anything mentioned above you should speak with your chosen clinic in advance and ask any questions you need to put your mind at ease. They should be more than happy to assist you with any queries you have to make you feel more comfortable and at ease. Remember, even during your appointment, you have the right to ask to pause, decline, and ask questions at any point. You are in control of your appointment.
What happens next will depend on your reason for coming in. You may need to arrange further tests, leave with a treatment plan, or return for a follow-up appointment. Whichever option it is, you should leave feeling confident, satisfied with your experience, and that you understand the next steps.
How long does a gynaecology appointment take?
Gynaecology appointments are usually about 30 minutes, however, some tests and appointments may be much quicker.
How to prepare for your first gynecologist appointment
If you’re concerned about feeling exposed, you can wear a long skirt that you can pull up for your examination or scans. Come prepared with a list of questions you have, details of any symptoms, and how long you’ve been experiencing them. There is no need to shave or do anything different to normal. Gynaecologists have seen it all – there isn’t a ‘normal’ when it comes to vulvas and vaginas, they come in every size, shape, and colour – so you have nothing to worry about.
How to find the right gynaecologist for you
The easiest way to find the right gynaecologist for you is to consider what is important to you? Is it free access to care? Getting seen quickly? Your choice of consultant? Easy and convenient access? Appointments on the weekends and evenings? Answering these questions can help guide you to the right gynaecologist for you.
Women’s health concerns can often be of a highly sensitive nature and this should be reflected in your experience; whichever clinic you seek advice from – whether that is the NHS or a private gynecology clinic – you should expect a calm, understanding and supportive environment.
