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

What does a gynaecologist do?

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

Problems becoming pregnant
Menstrual problems
Incontinence
Prolapse
Menopausal symptoms
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)
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 receptionist will often ask about your symptoms so you can be booked with the appropriate gynaecologist.

What is a first appointment with a gynaecologist like?

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

What does an examination by a gynaecologist involve?

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

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

It is completely normal to feel tense before a gynaecological examination. Tell the gynaecologist or receptionist. It is important to 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 to a gynaecologist?

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

Make the appointment when you are not menstruating. It does not matter to the examination or gynaecologist, but you may feel more comfortable.
Try pelvic floor relaxation exercises. The better you can relax, the less discomfort you will experience.
Use the toilet before the examination. An empty bladder makes the examination easier and more comfortable.
Wear comfortable clothing. You will need to remove your underwear. If you wear 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 experience some bleeding afterwards.

What treatments does a gynaecologist provide?

A gynaecologist may provide treatments such as:

Assisting with childbirth
Inserting an intrauterine device
Sterilisation
IVF treatments (in-vitro fertilisation)
Surgical treatments
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 helping prevent complaints in the pelvis, abdomen, lower back and pelvic floor. Pelvic health physiotherapy may form part of the treatment prescribed by the gynaecologist. You can also see a pelvic health physiotherapist without a referral from a gynaecologist or GP.

Gynaecologist