Gynaecology is the study of the female reproductive system – this includes the uterus, ovaries, cervix and vagina. The functions, medical disorders and diseases of the female reproductive system all fall under the heading of gynaecology.

Gynaecological complaints range from menstrual problems to uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts and cervical polyps. These issues range from uncomfortable and painful to life-threatening, and they may also affect fertility.

Gynaecological cancers are also sadly common. Therefore, it is vital that gynaecological issues are fully investigated when they arise. Depending on your personal and physical circumstance, your consultant gynaecologist may provide advice, organise tests, perform examinations or even recommend surgery. Gynaecology clinics can also provide advice on options for contraception and treat disorders during the early stages of pregnancy.

We are proud to facilitate consultant gynaecologists in our hospitals who can help test, diagnose, and treat or manage gynaecological issues to help improve your quality of life.

Why might you need gynaecological treatment?

There are many symptoms that mean you may need to see a gynaecologist, including:

  • Heavy periods;
  • Bleeding between periods;
  • Intermittent or irregular periods;
  • Abdominal or pelvic pain during or between periods;
  • Itching or burning and irregular discharge.

You might also want to discuss contraception with a gynaecologist, or speak to them about the early stages of pregnancy.

Common gynaecological procedures that we provide

Whether you are experiencing issues with menstruation, pelvic pain or require specialist family planning advice, our team will strive to help reduce your symptoms and make the right decisions for you. Gynaecological procedures that we provide include:

A hysterectomy is a radical operation to remove your uterus. There are two kinds of hysterectomy – abdominal and vaginal. In an abdominal hysterectomy, your cervix is also removed.

If necessary, your ovaries can be removed at the same time. The common reasons for having an abdominal hysterectomy include heavy periods, fibroids, endometriosis, chronic pelvic inflammatory disease and ovarian cysts. In a vaginal hysterectomy, it is possible to remove your ovaries, but they will more than likely not be removed.

The common reasons for having a vaginal hysterectomy include uterine prolapse, heavy periods and fibroids.

An endometrial ablation is an operation to remove the lining of your womb. The most common reason for having an endometrial ablation is to experience relief from the symptoms of heavy periods – most women will experience a noticeable reduction in their periods and, in some cases, periods stop altogether.

The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic, where your gynaecologist will use electricity or laser energy to remove the lining of your womb and any polyps or small fibroids they find.

A laparoscopic sterilisation is a permanent method of female contraception. It involves blocking both fallopian tubes to stop you from becoming pregnant. Afterwards, you will no longer need to use another form of contraception.

The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes about twenty minutes. Your gynaecologist will make several small cuts on your abdomen. The most common method of sterilisation is to block each fallopian tube with a clip.

An oophorectomy is the surgical removal of your ovaries. It is often performed as part of a hysterectomy, but may be carried out alone.

During an oophorectomy, you’ll be anaesthetised, meaning you will not be awake throughout the surgery. This procedure can be carried out to remove an ovarian cyst that is causing pain, lethargy, bloating or bladder issues, and treat conditions such as endometriosis.

It can also be performed to remove cancerous ovaries or the ovaries of women at high risk of developing ovarian cancer.

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