Getting and Staying Healthy: A Health and Medical Blog

How Can a Gynaecologist Help You?

Gynaecologists are doctors who specialise in female reproductive organs. In order to become qualified, they complete at least eight years of education and are registered with a professional organisation. They can handle a variety of issues including obstetrics (pregnancy/childbirth), menstruation problems, fertility problems and sexually transmitted diseases. Women should start visiting a trusted gynaecologist at least once a year starting in their early teen years. In this way, disorders of the female reproductive organs and hormones can be diagnosed early on and treatment can begin. If these disorders are left untreated then they can cause a multitude of health problems for the women and also interfere with child-bearing later on in life.

Why see a gynaecologist?

As mentioned, it is important to undergo an annual screening by your gynaecologist. Women should also see a gynaecologist for symptoms such as vaginal pain, abnormal bleeding and pelvic and vulva issues. Here is a guide to conditions treated by a gynaecologist:

  1. Women struggling to conceive or having irregular or heavy menstruation as well as women in menopause should see a gynaecologist for guidance and treatment options.
  2. Women looking for contraception or family planning options will find that gynaecologists can help them make the best decision. Gynaecologists also help women decide which sterlisation or pregnancy termination option is best for them. These matters should not be decided by an individual without the guidance of a gynaecologist. 
  3. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women; however, many women with PCOS suffer without being diagnosed or without treatment. Gynaecologists have a wide range of treatment options for PCOS to ensure that it is managed effectively and does not impact a women's reproductive life. 
  4. Sometimes conditions such as cysts occur in the uterus or ovaries as well as ulcers of the female reproductive organs. These are non-cancerous conditions that can cause women considerable pain and discomfort and interfere with pregnancy, so treatment is essential.
  5. Endometriosis is another condition which can interfere with reproduction and cause painful menstruation. 
  6. Sexual dysfunction can impact a woman's self-esteem and prevent her from having proper relationships. Gynacologists can diagnose these conditions and recommend treatment options.

Women should research their local gynaecologists. Many gynaecologists also further specialise in specific areas of women's reproductive health, such as PCOS and endometriosis. It can be a little daunting for women to see a gynaecologist initially; however, when they establish a relationship with their gynaecologist, it helps them to maintain their reproductive health in the long term. 


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