A gynaecologist is a medical specialist who specialises in gynaecology. Gynaecology deals with women's diseases and conditions, mainly those affecting the reproductive and sexual organs. A gynaecologist is therefore also known as a women's health specialist.

What does a gynaecologist do?

A gynaecologist examines, supports and treats women's diseases and conditions. They support women in special circumstances during pregnancy and treat problems affecting the reproductive and sexual organs. Examples include:

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

Gynaecologists often have a specialisation, such as obstetrics, cancer care or pelvic floor problems.

How do you see a gynaecologist?

The GP provides a referral to a gynaecologist. It is not possible to see a gynaecologist without a referral. When making a hospital appointment, the assistant will often ask about your symptoms so you can be booked with the appropriate gynaecologist.

What is a first appointment like?

The gynaecologist first discusses your symptoms and asks about your general health and menstrual cycle. This is usually followed by a physical examination.

What does an examination involve?

An examination may be external and internal. The external examination may involve:

Looking at the external organs, such as the vulva.
Inserting a speculum (metal spreader) into the vagina to examine the cervix and take a smear.
Feeling the internal reproductive organs. The gynaecologist uses two gloved fingers to feel the uterus and ovaries.
Performing an ultrasound, either externally during pregnancy or internally. For an external scan, the probe is placed on the abdomen; for an internal scan, it is inserted into the vagina. Sound waves create an image that can be seen immediately on a screen.

It is completely normal to feel tense before a gynaecological examination. Tell the gynaecologist or assistant. It is important that you relax as much as possible. You can ask for a female gynaecologist if that feels more comfortable.

How can you prepare for your first visit?

There are several things you can do, mainly to help yourself relax.

Make the appointment when you are not menstruating. It makes no difference to the examination, but you may feel more comfortable.
Try pelvic floor relaxation exercises. The better you can relax, the less discomfort you are likely to experience.
Use the toilet before the examination. An empty bladder makes it easier and more comfortable.
Wear comfortable clothing. You must remove your underwear. With 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 pad or panty liner, as you may lose a small amount of blood after the examination.

What treatments does a gynaecologist provide?

A gynaecologist can provide treatments such as:

Assisting with childbirth
Inserting an intrauterine device
Sterilisation
IVF treatment (in-vitro fertilisation)
Surgery
Curettage (cleaning the uterus)
Prescribing medication
Providing advice and support

Who does the gynaecologist work with?

The gynaecologist works with other doctors and specialists. A pelvic health physiotherapist specialises in assessing, treating and preventing complaints in the pelvis, abdomen, lower back and pelvic floor. Pelvic floor physiotherapy may form part of the treatment prescribed by the gynaecologist. You can also see a pelvic health physiotherapist without a referral from the gynaecologist or GP.

Gynaecologist