What is a gynaecology clinic and when to visit one?

If you are experiencing worrying symptoms relating to your reproductive systems, such as heavy bleeding, pain, or difficulty getting pregnant, you may need to visit a gynaecology clinic. Read on to discover what a gynaecology clinic is and when you might need to visit one.

The Clinic @ 78 offers a range of gynaecology services, from benign gynaecological conditions to pregnancy services. For help and advice in these areas, book an appointment with one of our consultant gynaecologists today.

What is gynaecology?

Gynaecology is the study of the female reproductive system. Though not all people with female reproductive organs identify as a woman, such as men who are transgender.

A gynaecology specialist is called a gynaecologist. They specialise in women’s health and pregnancy. A gynaecologist deals with issues relating to reproductive organs, such as the uterus, ovaries, cervix and vagina; this includes functionality, medical disorders and diseases.

You may visit a gynaecologist at the hospital, at a medical centre, or at a private gynaecology clinic.

“I typically see ladies with benign gynaecological conditions, that being conditions ranging from heavy periods, prolapse, pelvic pain, and similar conditions in gynaecology.”

Mr Tyrone Carpenter, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, The Clinic @ 78

“I provide pregnancy scanning, as well as pre-pregnancy counselling services”.

Ms Latha Vinayakarao, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, The Clinic @ 78

Reasons to visit a gynaecology clinic

You may visit a gynaecology clinic for: 

• Your regular check-ups 
• Contraception e.g. the contraceptive implant or an IUD
• Advice on getting pregnant and preconception counselling
• Pregnancy scanning
• Smear tests and cancer screenings
• Testing and treating vaginal infections

You may also visit us to discuss concerning symptoms.

Common symptoms include:

• Frequent itching 
• Vaginal odour
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain during or after sex
• Painful periods and cramping
• Heavy bleeding during your period
• Light or no bleeding 

Various menstrual disorders, reproductive system disorders and other problems can cause these symptoms. 

Reproductive health concerns include:

• Ovarian cysts
• Fibroids
• PCOS
• Endometriosis
• Adenomyosis
• Infertility
• Pregnancy-related concerns
• Menstrual problems
• Menopause
• Pelvic health issues, such as pelvic pain, pelvic inflammatory diseases, and pelvic floor disorders

Keep reading to learn more about the most common menstrual problems.

Menstrual Problems

You may visit a gynaecologist to discuss abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), such as heavy periods, light or no periods. You could be experiencing painful periods or the signs of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). 

PMS relates to the variety of physical and psychological symptoms experienced during the menstrual cycle. Though if these symptoms become severe, you may have Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).

Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)

Menorrhagia is the experience of heavy, prolonged periods. 

Heavy periods may be accompanied by pain during your period, in the lower abdomen, pelvis or lower back, or during sex. This would suggest that you might have endometriosis or adenomyosis. 

Heavy periods can also be a sign of PCOS though this is more commonly associated with light or absent periods.

Other causes of heavy bleeding include:

• Uterine fibroids
• Hormonal imbalance
• A birth control device
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Abnormal pregnancies, such as an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage

Light or Absent Periods (Amenorrhea)

Before puberty, after menopause, and during pregnancy, it is completely normal to have no period. Though if you do bleed during pregnancy, seek medical advice.

Light periods aren’t usually a cause for concern. We consider a period between 2-3 days to still be within the normal range. A normal period usually lasts around 2-7 days.

There are two types of amenorrhea (an absent period). Primary and secondary.

Primary amenorrhea means you’ve had no periods at all, which continues after puberty. This is around the age of 16.

Secondary amenorrhea refers to a sudden stop in periods that lasts for 3 months or more.

Causes of light or absent periods include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• An eating disorder, such as anorexia
• Obesity
• Excessive exercise
• Birth defects
• Thyroid disorder
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

Menstrual cramps are relatively common, though if they are frequent and/ or severely painful, it’s a sign that something else is going on.

A chemical imbalance in the body can cause dysmenorrhea, resulting in abnormal uterine contractions, or a medical condition, such as endometriosis.

Watch the video below to learn which test we usually perform for painful periods.

You may be more likely to experience painful periods if you: drink an excessive amount of alcohol during your period, smoke, are overweight, or if your first period came before the age of 11.

Preparing for your appointment

Before your appointment with our gynaecologist, you might want to make a list of any symptoms you are experiencing. Try to keep a symptom diary/ tracker to note how frequent your symptoms are, and if there are any triggers, such as pain after sex or pain while you are on your period

We also advise you to bring a list of any medications you are currently taking.

Learn more about gynaecology

Learn more about menstrual disorders

Healthy women provide a detailed overview of various menstrual disorders and ways of managing them.

7 Things You Should Always Discuss with Your Gynecologist

John Hopkins provides further insight into reasons you may visit a gynaecology clinic.

Understanding Endometriosis

Endometriosis UK is a charity that provides support and information for people with endometriosis.

All About Menopause and Perimenopause

Learn more about menopause and perimenopause.

Dos and don’ts for a safer pregnancy

Tommy’s breakdowns the myths and facts surrounding pregnancy in their Pregnancy Hub.

Why choose the Clinic @ 78?

Our gynaecologists offer expert advice on menstrual disorders, reproductive system disorders, getting pregnant, and sexual health.

If you need to see a gynaecologist, look no further. Book an appointment with one of our specialists today.