Gynaecology is a branch of medicine concerned with the health and treatment of diseases of the female reproductive system. It encompasses the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina and external genitalia. Another important aspect of gynaecology is caring for women’s health at different stages of their lives – from puberty, through childbearing years, to the menopause and later life.
A gynaecologist is responsible for monitoring the foetus’s development and the expectant mother’s health, carrying out antenatal tests, and preparing the mother for childbirth and the postnatal period.
It involves tailoring the method of contraception to the woman’s individual needs and state of health.
Signs that you should see a doctor include irregular periods, heavy bleeding, very light periods or the complete absence of periods.
Severe pain in the lower abdomen and lumbar region during menstruation may be linked to excessive uterine contractions, inflammation, or diseases of the reproductive organs.
This is a group of physical and emotional symptoms, such as headaches, swelling, irritability and mood swings, which occur before a woman’s period. Their severity and impact on day-to-day life vary from woman to woman.
These include infections of the vagina, vulva, cervix or adnexa, which may cause vaginal discharge, itching, a burning sensation or pain.
Infections transmitted mainly through sexual contact, caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites.
They may be congenital or acquired and may affect the uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina and cervix.
A condition in which tissue resembling the lining of the womb (endometrium) is found outside the uterine cavity. It can cause severe period pain, persistent pelvic discomfort and fertility problems.
Regular self-examination and imaging tests (ultrasound, mammography) help to detect both cancer and benign changes in the breasts at an early stage.
Cytology and HPV tests play a key role in the prevention and early diagnosis of precancerous lesions.
They often develop without any obvious symptoms in the early stages. They can cause bloating, abdominal pain, a feeling of fullness and problems with urination.
A period characterised by a decline in ovarian hormonal activity. Symptoms include hot flushes, mood swings, vaginal dryness and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Treatment involves symptomatic management, hormone therapy and the prevention of chronic conditions.
A common problem among women, particularly after childbirth and during the menopause. It can be treated in various ways: with medication, through physiotherapy or using modern treatment methods.
It may be caused by hormonal disorders, gynaecological conditions, anatomical abnormalities or environmental factors. It requires comprehensive diagnosis and often interdisciplinary treatment.
Amniocentesis
Cytology / HPV test
Aesthetic and regenerative gynaecology
Hysteroscopy
Colposcopy
KTG
Tearing of the hymen
Laparoscopy
4D ultrasound scan
Gynaecological ultrasound scan
Ultrasound-HSG
Obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound
Obstetric and gynaecological Doppler ultrasound
Prenatal ultrasound (first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy) – including for multiple pregnancies
GBS swab
Insertion of a subcutaneous contraceptive implant
Fitting a pessary
Fitting an intrauterine device
Removal of an intrauterine device
Unless there are specific reasons to do so earlier, the first visit to a gynaecologist should take place around the time of the first period – usually between the ages of 11 and 16. The type of examination is chosen on an individual basis: for patients who have not yet become sexually active, an abdominal ultrasound scan is performed, whilst for women who have had sexual intercourse, a transvaginal ultrasound scan is carried out.
Be prepared for the most common questions you may be asked during your visit to the gynaecologist:
If you are under 16, you must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian when you attend your appointment. If you are aged between 16 and 18, written consent from a parent or legal guardian is sufficient.
The appointment usually begins with a discussion with the doctor about your current symptoms, past illnesses and previous test results. This is followed by a gynaecological examination, which may include an assessment of the reproductive organs, an ultrasound scan, and the taking of swabs or a smear test. Finally, the doctor discusses the diagnosis and outlines recommendations for treatment or prevention.
The first appointment lasts around 20 minutes and includes a medical history discussion and a gynaecological examination. If additional procedures are required, such as an ultrasound scan, the appointment may last up to 40 minutes. Subsequent consultations are usually shorter – they take 10–20 minutes and focus mainly on discussing test results and the progress of treatment.
It is advisable to see a gynaecologist if you experience irregular periods, painful periods, bleeding between periods, lower abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, a burning sensation in the genital area, problems conceiving, or as part of regular preventive care – at least once a year.
Most gynaecological examinations and procedures are painless, and anaesthesia is administered if necessary. They may sometimes cause brief discomfort, but the patient is always given clear information about the procedure and the available methods of pain relief.
No. A gynaecologist deals exclusively with women’s health and conditions affecting the female reproductive system. If a man has health problems relating to the genitourinary system, he should see a urologist or andrologist.
Certain gynaecological conditions and procedures can affect fertility; however, modern treatment methods make it possible in many cases to preserve or restore it. Your doctor will always discuss the potential consequences and choose a course of treatment designed to minimise the risk to your fertility.
Yes. Regular check-ups – ideally once a year – enable the early detection of cancerous changes, inflammation or hormonal imbalances. Gynaecological screening is crucial for maintaining women’s health and quality of life.
