A gynaecologist is a medical specialist who specializes in gynaecology. Gynaecology is the specialty concerned with diseases and conditions affecting women, particularly those of the reproductive and sexual organs. For this reason, a gynaecologist is also called a women's health doctor.

What does a gynaecologist do?

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

Problems becoming pregnant
Menstrual problems
Incontinence
Pelvic organ 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)
Symptoms affecting the vulva (labia and clitoris)
Fibroids
STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
Fallopian tube inflammation
Vaginal discharge

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

How do you see a gynaecologist?

The family doctor writes a referral to a gynaecologist. It is not possible to see a gynaecologist without a referral. When making a hospital appointment, the receptionist often asks about the symptoms so that you can be scheduled 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 is a gynaecological examination like?

An examination may include an external and an internal examination. 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 perform a cervical smear test.
Feeling the internal sexual organs. Using two gloved fingers, the gynaecologist feels the uterus and ovaries.
Performing an ultrasound. This may be external, such as a pregnancy ultrasound, or internal. 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 seen immediately on a screen.

It is completely normal to feel tense before a gynaecological examination. Tell the gynaecologist or receptionist. It is important that you relax as much as possible. If this would make you more comfortable, you can ask for a female gynaecologist.

How can you prepare for your first visit to a gynaecologist?

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

Make the appointment when you are not menstruating. It does not matter for the examination or the gynaecologist, but you may feel more comfortable.
Try pelvic floor relaxation exercises. The better you can relax, the less discomfort you will experience during the examination.
Use the washroom before the examination. An empty bladder makes the examination much easier and more comfortable.
Wear comfortable clothing. Your underwear must be removed during the examination. 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. You may lose some blood after the examination.

What treatments does a gynaecologist provide?

A gynaecologist can provide various treatments, such as:

Assistance during childbirth
Insertion of an intrauterine device
Sterilization
IVF treatments (in-vitro fertilization)
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 therapist is a physiotherapist who specializes in assessing, treating and helping prevent symptoms in the pelvis, abdomen, lower back and pelvic floor. Pelvic floor physiotherapy may be part of the treatment prescribed by the gynaecologist. You can also see a pelvic health therapist without a referral from a gynaecologist or family doctor.

Gynaecologist