A gynecologist is a medical specialist who specializes in gynecology. Gynecology focuses on diseases and conditions affecting women, especially the reproductive and sexual organs. A gynecologist is therefore also called a women's health physician.

What does a gynecologist do?

A gynecologist examines, guides and treats diseases and conditions affecting women. A gynecologist supports women during special circumstances in pregnancy and treats problems involving the reproductive and sexual organs. Examples include:

Problems becoming pregnant
Menstrual problems
Incontinence
Pelvic organ prolapse
Menopausal symptoms
Pelvic floor problems
Abnormal cervical smear
Contraception
Cervical cancer
Endometriosis (growth of tissue on the peritoneum and/or other organs in the lower abdomen)
Vulvar complaints (labia and clitoris)
Fibroids
STDs (sexually transmitted diseases)
Fallopian tube inflammation
Vaginal discharge

Gynecologists often have a subspecialty, such as obstetrics, oncology or pelvic floor problems.

How do you see a gynecologist?

The primary care physician provides a referral to a gynecologist. It is not possible to see a gynecologist without a referral. When making a hospital appointment, the assistant often asks about the symptoms so that you can be scheduled with the appropriate gynecologist.

What is a first appointment with a gynecologist like?

The gynecologist first discusses your symptoms and asks questions about your general health and menstruation. This is usually followed by a physical examination.

What is a gynecological examination like?

A gynecological examination may include an external and internal examination. The first 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.
Feeling the internal reproductive organs. Using two gloved fingers, the gynecologist feels the uterus and ovaries.
Performing an ultrasound, either external (pregnancy ultrasound) or internal. For an external ultrasound, the probe is placed on the abdomen. For an internal ultrasound, it is inserted into the vagina. Sound waves create an image that is immediately visible on a screen.

It is completely normal to feel tense before a gynecological examination. Tell the gynecologist or assistant. It is important to relax as much as possible. You may ask for a female gynecologist if that makes you more comfortable.

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

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

Make the appointment when you are not menstruating. It makes no difference to the examination or gynecologist, but you may feel more comfortable.
Try pelvic floor relaxation exercises. The better you can relax, the less discomfort you will experience.
Use the restroom before the examination. An empty bladder makes the examination easier and more comfortable.
Wear comfortable clothing. 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 a small amount of blood after the examination.

What treatments does a gynecologist provide?

A gynecologist may provide treatments such as:

Assistance during childbirth
Insertion of an IUD
Sterilization
IVF treatments (in vitro fertilization)
Surgical treatment
Curettage (cleaning the uterus)
Prescribing medication
Providing advice and support

Who does the gynecologist work with?

The gynecologist works with other physicians and specialists. A pelvic floor therapist is a physical therapist who specializes in examining, treating and preventing complaints in the pelvis, abdomen, lower back and pelvic floor. Pelvic floor physical therapy may be part of the treatment prescribed by the gynecologist. You can also see a pelvic floor therapist without a referral from a gynecologist or primary care physician.

Gynecologist