Gynecological specialty

What complaints should you see a gynecologist about?

Regular gynecological check-ups are key to maintaining women's health, so even if you have no complaints, it is recommended that you have at least one check-up a year to screen for cervical cancer and to identify any infections or organ lesions. It is also recommended to visit a gynecology clinic as soon as possible if you have any of the following complaints:

• Irregular or abnormal monthly bleeding
• Frequent abdominal pain
• Changes in the color, consistency and odor of vaginal discharge
• Burning, itching sensation in the vaginal and vulvar region
• Severe flatulence
• Menstrual symptoms: irregular, too long or too short a cycle, painful, crampy periods, heavier than normal bleeding
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• Breast lesions: pain, discharge, lumps or bumps in the breast or underarm area
• Symptoms caused by hormonal changes
• Suspected sexually transmitted disease
• Suspicion of pregnancy

What tests can be done in the gynecology department?

Vaginal ultrasound

Vaginal ultrasound is an extremely useful diagnostic tool in gynecological examinations, providing detailed images of the uterine lining, womb, ovaries and surrounding tissues. Our specialists can check for any abnormalities such as cysts, fibroids, polyps or other lesions. In addition, vaginal ultrasound can also be used for scans in early pregnancy. During the ultrasound scan, the specialist inserts a gel-coated probe into the vagina, which directs soundwaves to the organs at close range, giving a more detailed image than an abdominal ultrasound. Vaginal ultrasound is not painful but can cause some discomfort during the scan. It is usually a relatively quick and simple procedure.

Cervical cancer screening

Regular screening for cervical cancer, also known as cytology, is essential for early detection of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is a malignant lesion of the cervical cells that develops asymptomatically over decades and is thought to be caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) infection in most cases. During cytology, a gynecologist takes a smear from the surface of the cervix using a spatula, and places it on a slide. The smear sample is then examined under a microscope by a cytopathologist to see if it contains epithelial cells that could indicate an abnormal condition. The test does not involve any pain.

Colposcopy

If the results of a cervical screening show abnormalities, the specialist will also perform a colposcopy. This involves examining the surface of the vagina and cervix using an optical instrument (colposcope) with multiple magnification. The colposcope is equipped with a special light source that illuminates the area to be examined, and magnifying lenses allow the specialist to obtain a detailed picture of the cell structure, tissue lesions and any abnormalities. The scan is painless and takes only a few minutes, allowing the patient to return to daily activities immediately afterwards.

What happens during the gynecological examination? 

During the gynecological examination, the specialist will first ask you about your past and present known medical conditions, the medicines you are taking and your current complaints. To establish a medical history, the specialist will also look at information such as the length and regularity of the menstrual cycle, the number of pregnancies and the mode of delivery, previous gynecological operations, previous sexually transmitted diseases or infections and a family history of gynecological diseases. After taking the medical history, the external genital organs are examined via a visual inspection. The vagina, the cervix and the mouth of the womb are examined via an instrument called a duckbill speculum. This is followed by a vaginal ultrasound scan, sampling for cervical screening and, depending on the results, colposcopy. If the doctor finds abnormal areas or suspicious cells during the colposcopy, he or she may recommend further tests or procedures, such as a biopsy. During a biopsy, the specialist takes a sample from the abnormal area and sends it to a laboratory to determine the exact nature and condition of the cells or tissue.

How should you arrive for the test?

The patient should bring all previous medical records to the first consultation, in particular the results of gynecological examinations. In addition, it is important to collect a gynecological and obstetric history, in particular the date of the last menstruation, the date of the last cervical cancer screening, and the number of pregnancies, births and abortions.

Why choose Dr. Rose Private Hospital?

• Skilled specialists, modern diagnostic equipment. In our gynecology department, our aim is to provide comprehensive care for our patients, offering the highest standard of treatment.
• Personalized care. We discuss each patient's complaints in detail, listening to their medical history and their needs. This gives us a comprehensive picture of their health and any risk factors, which we use to develop a treatment plan tailored to individual patient needs.
• An empathetic, person-centered approach. At our gynecology clinic, we always keep the comfort and trust of our patients in mind. Our staff do their utmost to create a pleasant and safe environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their complaints and asking questions.

For gynecological complaints or screening tests to prevent illness, please contact the doctors at Dr. Rose Private Hospital.