Gynaecology

There are a number of reasons you may want to have a private consultation with a Consultant Gynaecologist. Some of the common reasons people have include:

• Struggling with pelvic pain, either during or between periods,
• Experiencing heavy periods,
• Bleeding between periods,
• Absent, intermittent or irregular periods,
• Itching or burning,
• Irregular discharge,
• Pelvic prolapse,
• Vulval irritation or lesion,
• Difficulty opening the bowels and/or passing urine,
• Urinary incontinence.

In addition, people with menopausal symptoms may wish to talk with a Consultant for expert advice, while others may have had a scan that showed a possible fibroid or ovarian cyst and are looking for clarity about what this means and what treatment may be available.

Whatever the problem, being able to meet with and talk to an expert about any of these issues can be invaluable.

A doctor who specialises in this area of medicine is known as a Consultant Gynaecologist. Here at The Manor Hospital, our Consultant Gynaecologists can offer you comprehensive investigation, assessment and treatment for any gynaecological problem.

Gynaecology is a specialised area of medicine that deals with the health of the female reproductive system. This includes the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

The conditions that our Consultants are most frequently asked for help with include:

• Endometriosis: a long-term condition causing period pain and pain within the pelvis,
  
  
• Uterine fibroids: the presence of non-cancerous growths within the uterus,
  
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (POS): affects the function of the ovaries,
  
  
• Pelvic floor muscle weakness/dysfunction,
  
  
• Pelvic organ prolapse: one or more organs in the pelvis shift from their normal position, pushing down on the vagina.

If you’re struggling with a period problem, long-term pain in your pelvis, menopausal symptoms or have any concerns at all about the health of your reproductive system, our Consultant Gynaecologists are here to help you.

When you visit with us here atThe Manor Hospital, you’ll be seen by a Consultant Gynaecologist. Your initial appointment will usually be about 30 minutes, depending on your specific needs.

We know that sometimes it can feel awkward or embarrassing to discuss intimate details with a doctor. Rest assured, during your appointment, you’ll be able to discuss any health concerns you have with your Consultant, assured of complete privacy and dignity at all times.

When you first meet with your Consultant, you’ll be able to talk with them about the symptoms you’re having. They’ll want to know things like:

• How long you’ve had the symptoms for,
• If you have pain, what type of pain it is (for example, is it dull or sharp, spread throughout the pelvis/abdomen or only in one specific place, constant or intermittent?),
• Whether your symptoms have been getting worse over time,
• What treatments (if any) you’ve already tried,
• How the symptoms are affecting you day to day,
• Whether there’s anything you’re particularly worried or anxious about.

As part of their assessment, they may need to carry out a physical examination, and this will always be explained to you.

Additional tests may also sometimes be needed to help with diagnosis, and these can all easily be arranged for you on-site. We respect your time and are often able to carry out these tests during your visit with us in order to keep things as efficient for you as possible. These tests may include:

• Blood test,
• Cervical swabs to check for infection,
• Diagnostic scans, normally ultrasound (also known as sonography).

The results of any tests will inform treatment choices, and your Consultant will discuss options with you so that you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. If you have any questions at any time, this is the ideal opportunity for you to talk through them in a safe, supportive environment.

Taking a holistic approach, your Consultant will ensure you receive the optimal combination of any suitable treatments. This may include:

• Hormonal or other drug therapy,
• Physiotherapy,
• Behavioural therapy,
• Lifestyle modifications,
• Surgery.

It’s important to know that many of the conditions that affect the reproductive system can be effectively treated and managed without the need for surgery. As a general guide, around one in four people may require surgery to adequately treat their symptoms.

If surgery is needed, we can arrange that for you here. The types of surgery we can provide include:

• Biopsy, taking a sample of tissue from the body for further analysis,
• Coil (intrauterine device/ IUD) fitting,
• Removal of polyps (abnormal growths of tissue),
• Hysteroscopy, keyhole surgery inside the womb
• Laparoscopy, a form of keyhole surgery, particularly useful for treating endometriosis and ovarian cysts,
• Open abdominal surgery such as hysterectomy,
• Vaginal surgery for prolapse.

Should surgery be advised, your Consultant will talk you through everything clearly so that you have the information you need to make an informed decision about whether to have surgery or not.

When you choose to visit with a Consultant Gynaecologist here, you’ll benefit from:

• Rapid access: If you’re concerned about a problem within your reproductive system, you’ll want to get it assessed and treated as soon as possible. With fast access to assessment, diagnosis and treatment, your Consultant will make sure you receive the best treatment possible, quickly.
• Continuity of care: The consultant you see for your initial consultation will be the one you see for any further visits. If you require treatment, this will be overseen by them from start to finish. You won’t need to worry about seeing a different doctor each time and having to explain your story all over again.
• Peace of mind: In our most recent patient survey, we were delighted that 98.7% of the people we’d treated said they were likely or highly likely to recommend us to their friends and family. It’s perfectly understandable to feel concerned about any health problem, particularly those affecting the reproductive system, but your Consultant will always be happy to talk with you through any questions and concerns you may have at any stage.
• Flexible appointments: We appreciate that life is often very busy. That’s why we offer extended opening hours and give you a choice of appointment times, so that you can schedule your consultation at a time that’s most convenient for you.
• Multidisciplinary team: Your Consultant is expertly supported at The Manor Hospital by a number of other healthcare professionals including nurses, physiotherapists and radiographers. The depth and expertise of our team ensures you will always receive the best possible treatment and care throughout your time with us.

It is perfectly normal to feel anxious or concerned about a gynaecological issue. When you do have concerns, it’s reassuring to know that you are not alone.

Good treatment and support is available for a wide range of conditions and problems, without unnecessary or unwanted waiting times. At your appointment, you’ll be given the time you need to talk with your Consultant openly and honestly. They’ll thoroughly investigate any possible causes of your problem and then discuss any suitable treatment options with you.

Should you require treatment, this can be easily, and quickly arranged for you.

Whether you live in Bedford or will be travelling to visit with us from further afield, book your appointment online today.