# The Gynae Centre --- ## Pages - [Endometriosis](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/endometriosis/): NO WAIT TIMES Private endometriosis treatment – fast-track your diagnosis In the UK, women now wait an average of 8... - [Hysteroscopy procedure](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/hysteroscopy-procedure/): YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY Private hysteroscopy procedure in London We are delighted to be able to offer our patients... - [Abortion clinic for Romanians in London, UK](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/abortion-clinic-for-romanians-in-london/): ABORTION CLINIC FOR ROMANIANS About Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall and the services offered at The Gynae Centre Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall is... - [Dr B Mokoonlall (MD)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/dr-b-mokoonlall-md/): PATIENT-CENTERED APPROACH Consultant Gynaecologist GMC number: 7115474 Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall is known for his warm demeanour and patient-centered approach. He... - [Mr A Steshenko (MBBS, MRCOG, MSc, PGA)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/mr-a-steshenko/): ATTENTIVE & RESPECTFUL Consultant Gynaecologist GMC number: 6118165 Mr Alex Steshenko is an experienced consultant gynaecologist who is compassionate and... - [Dr C Grainger (MBBS, MRCOG, DFSRH)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/dr-c-grainger/): CARING & COMPASSIONATE Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist GMC number: 7042794 Dr Grainger, better known by her patients and colleagues as... - [Thank you for booking](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/thank-you-for-booking/): THANK YOU Thank you for making a booking with The Gynae Centre. You will shortly receive an email confirming your... - [Site map](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/sitemap/) - [Thank you for your enquiry](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/thank-you-for-your-enquiry/): The Gynae Centre will be in touch soon. - [COVID-19 update](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/covid-19/): COVID-19 We would like to reassure you that The Gynae Centre will remain open during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. All... - [Terms and Conditions](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/): THE FINE PRINT The Gynae Centre only uses information from sources believed to be correct, but the website may contain... - [Cookies policy](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/cookies-policy/): HONESTY & TRANSPARENCY The Gynae Centre wants you to feel confident about the privacy and security of your personal information.... - [Blog](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/): Help for menopause symptoms: How HRT can help Are you seeking help for menopause symptoms? Through menopause and the years... - [Media centre](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/media-centre/): IN THE NEWS In the press As a leading gynaecology clinic we are often asked to comment on the news,... - [Links](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/links/): USEFUL LINKS The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy One of London’s leading private Assisted Conception (IVF) clinic specialising in IVF /... - [COVID-19 appointment checklist](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/checklist/): COVID-19 Protecting patients and staff All patients visiting the clinic are required to fill in the following form to ensure... - [Book your appointment online](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/bookings/): BOOK ONLINE You can now reserve your consultation at The Gynae Centre using our booking form below. Simply enter your... - [Dr A Eskander (MBChB, FRCOG)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/dr-eskander/): OUR FOUNDER Consultant Gynaecologist & Medical Director GMC number: 2675035 When Dr Eskander set up The Gynae Centre in 1999... - [About us](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/about-us/): HONESTY & TRANSPARENCY Private gynaecology care at its finest The Gynae Centre was established in 1999 to provide women with... - [Minor surgeries](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/minor-surgeries/): CQC APPROVED Save on hospital costs Here at The Gynae centre, our facilities are approved by the Care Quality Commission... - [Vaginismus](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/vaginismus-treatment/): YOU’RE NOT ALONE Is penetrative sex painful (or even impossible)? Vaginismus is a rare condition which involves involuntary contractions of... - [Telephone consultations](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/telephone-consultations/): CONSULTATIONS FROM ANYWHERE Making consultations more convenient Consultations over the phone have been introduced at The Gynae Centre in response... - [Sexual health](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/sexual-health/): 100% CONFIDENTIAL Discreet, confidential sexual health testing Looking after sexual health is of paramount importance. Not only because sexual disease... - [Well woman check](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/well-woman-check/): HEALTH MOT Reassurance at all stages of life Thanks to our increasingly busy lifestyles, finding time to visit the doctor... - [Baby gender scan](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/baby-gender-scan/): SEXING SCAN Can’t wait to discover the sex of your baby? We can reveal the gender of your baby as... - [Abnormal smear and colposcopy](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/abnormal-smear-and-colposcopy/): PEACE OF MIND Quick, effective treatment when you need it Around 1 in 20 women will receive an abnormal smear... - [Abnormal vaginal bleeding](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/abnormal-vaginal-bleeding/): PEACE OF MIND Concerned about abnormal bleeding? Abnormal unprovoked vaginal bleeding commonly occurs from the uterus. At the Gynae Centre... - [Panorama prenatal test (NIPT)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/panorama-prenatal-test/): PRIVATE PANORAMA TEST Trusted non-invasive prenatal testing The Panorama test is a safe and accurate, non-invasive prenatal DNA screening test... - [Early pregnancy scans](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/early-pregnancy-scans/): PRIVATE SCANS Worried about your pregnancy? Whether you are on a short visit to the UK or simply want to... - [Fertility problems](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/fertility-problems/): WE’RE HERE TO HELP Having trouble conceiving? If you are having problems conceiving, then you certainly aren’t alone because as... - [Vaginal pain & discharge](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/vaginal-pain-discharge/): TRUSTED EXPERTS Don’t suffer in silence Vaginal discharge can be a distressing problem not only because of the discomfort it... - [Menopause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/menopause/): MENOPAUSE HEALTH Peace of mind during menopause Menopause symptoms can interfere with daily life, work, and even relationships. It’s time... - [Pregnancy termination surgery](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/pregnancy-termination-surgery/): 100% CONFIDENTIAL Medical abortion using surgical procedure If you are considering terminating your pregnancy, it is of paramount importance that... - [Very Early Medical Abortion](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/very-early-medical-abortion-vema/): YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS Peace of mind at a difficult time If you are pregnant and considering terminating your pregnancy,... - [Medical abortion using pill](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/medical-abortion/): SUPPORTIVE & CONFIDENTIAL Looking for a private abortion clinic in London? If you are pregnant and considering a termination, it... - [Fees](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/fees/): TRANSPARENT & COMPETITIVE For total peace of mind it is worth paying for a level of gynaecology care that simply... - [Our services](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/): PRIVATE CLINIC You’re in safe hands The combination of advanced medical facilities and friendly, professional staff means any visit to... - [Privacy Policy](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy The Gynae Centre wants you to feel confident about the privacy and security of your personal information. This... - [Medical abortion pills by post](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/our-services/medical-abortion-pills-by-post/): DISCREET & CONFIDENTIAL Abortion pills by post Due to recent changes in the law, we are now able to offer... - [Home page](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/): Are you looking for a private gynaecologist in London? Confidential & discreet Honest & transparent Video & telephone appointments Book... - [Contact us](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/contact-us/): WE’re here for you Here at The Gynae Centre, our patients are our priority. We are always available to take... --- ## Posts - [A plain-language guide to abnormal vaginal bleeding](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/a-plain-language-guide-to-abnormal-vaginal-bleeding/): Abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to any unexpected or irregular bleeding from the vagina. It is sometimes confused with Abnormal Uterine... - [Sex and your pelvic floor: What you need to know](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/sex-and-your-pelvic-floor-what-you-need-to-know/): The pelvic floor (sometimes known as the pelvic diaphragm) is a structure of muscles, ligaments and fascia, which play a... - [What to do if you’ve just found out you’re pregnant but don’t want to be](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-to-do-if-youve-just-found-out-youre-pregnant-but-dont-want-to-be/): If you have just found out that you’re pregnant, but don’t want to be, you may be experiencing feelings of... - [Do you have unexplained vaginal bleeding?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/do-you-have-unexplained-vaginal-bleeding/): Have you experienced unexplained vaginal bleeding, also referred to as irregular bleeding or ‘spotting’? It’s often nothing to be concerned... - [Why is the UK women’s health gap so large?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-is-the-uk-womens-health-gap-so-large/): In an ideal world, every individual would receive the same quality of healthcare. In reality, that’s not always the case... - [Let's talk all things SEX (and making it more comfortable)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/lets-talk-all-things-sex-and-making-it-more-comfortable/): Sex is meant to be a pleasurable and intimate experience, but for some people, it can be uncomfortable or even... - [Why do I need a smear test?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-do-i-need-a-smear-test/): As we progress through life, we often become more acutely aware of changes in our body, and are more likely... - [Yeast infections: Everything you need to know about this common issue](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/yeast-infections-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-common-issue/): Could that itch be a sign of infection? Possibly! A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis or vaginal... - [Sexual health and vaginal wellbeing through menopause and beyond](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/sexual-health-and-vaginal-wellbeing-through-menopause-and-beyond/): Let’s talk about sexual health and menopause. If you suspect you may be in perimenopause (the years transitioning to menopause),... - [Health tests and screenings every woman should get and why](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/health-tests-and-screenings-every-woman-should-get-and-why/): How often have you seen your doctor over the past five years? According to research, 20% of people in the... - [Do you have PCOS symptoms? When to speak to a gynaecologist](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/do-you-have-pcos-symptoms-when-to-speak-to-a-gynaecologist/): 1st September marks the start of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, and so what better time to raise awareness... - [Tips for maintaining your wellbeing during a medical abortion](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/tips-for-maintaining-your-wellbeing-during-a-medical-abortion/): Are you preparing for a medical abortion or supporting a loved one who will be taking the abortion pill? Looking... - [Supporting a partner with vaginismus](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/supporting-a-partner-with-vaginismus/): It’s supposed to be one of life’s greatest joys, and yet if your partner has vaginismus, sex might have become... - [What is loop excision and why do I need one?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-is-loop-excision-and-why-do-i-need-one/): June is home to Cervical Screening Awareness week and it’s a time to talk about life-saving testing and treatment that... - [Would you know if you had an STI?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/would-you-know-if-you-had-an-sti/): Did you know that STI rates in England are skyrocketing? Recent reports confirm that cases of STIs are on the... - [The vaginal microbiome: What is it and can I optimise it?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/the-vaginal-microbiome-what-is-it-and-can-i-optimise-it/): You’ve heard of the gut microbiome, but did you know your vagina has one too? Vaginal bacteria are enjoying something... - [Why does it sting when I have sex? Is vaginismus the cause?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-does-it-sting-when-i-have-sex-is-vaginismus-the-cause/): It’s supposed to be fun but every time you try to have sex, it hurts. Perhaps you’re feeling a ‘brick... - [Abortion in the UK – How is the first trimester of pregnancy terminated?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/abortion-in-the-uk-how-is-the-first-trimester-of-pregnancy-terminated/): Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy and don’t feel ready to be a mother? Everyone’s circumstances are different but the... - [What does abnormal bleeding mean?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-does-abnormal-bleeding-mean/): Are you experiencing vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you? Many women will experience some irregular bleeding (or ‘spotting’) at... - [13 Reasons you’re spotting between periods](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/13-reasons-youre-spotting-between-periods/): You know it’s not your time of the month and yet you notice blood... While it may well be nothing... - [The success rate of medical abortion](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/the-success-rate-of-medical-abortion/): If you have made the difficult decision to end a pregnancy, ensuring you have access to the best medical care... - [Fibroids: What are they and how do they impact me?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/fibroids-what-are-they-and-how-do-they-impact-me/): Did you know that the majority of women will have uterine fibroids at some point in their life? Fibroids are... - [How often should I get tested for STDs?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/how-often-should-i-get-tested-for-stds/): If you’re sexually active, you may be wondering: how often should I get tested for STDs? Sexual health is important.... - [How do I know if I have vaginismus?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-vaginismus/): If you are experiencing pain upon sexual intercourse or insertion of a tampon, you may be suffering with a condition... - [Are abortion pills safe?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/are-abortion-pills-safe/): The decision to end a pregnancy is often not an easy one, and in addition you’ll usually need to decide... - [Women’s health after 40: What you should know](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/womens-health-after-40-what-you-should-know/): Women’s health after 40 – it’s a crucial topic that too often goes unmentioned. Not least because women in their... - [What is vaginal dryness? Causes, symptoms, treatment](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-is-vaginal-dryness-causes-symptoms-treatment/): What is vaginal dryness? Although it’s a topic that mostly goes unmentioned, vaginal dryness is a problem that many women... - [What painful periods mean](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-painful-periods-mean/): If you suffer significant period pain every month, you may be left worrying what painful periods mean. It’s a key... - [Is it normal to bleed after sex?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/is-it-normal-to-bleed-after-sex/): Have you experienced bleeding after sex? Worried it could be something serious? As London’s leading women’s health clinic, we at... - [Medical abortion vs. surgical abortion: which is right for me?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/medical-abortion-vs-surgical-abortion-which-is-right-for-me/): Making the decision to terminate a pregnancy is usually not an easy one. In addition, what follows is another key... - [Lower abdominal pain – when is it time to worry?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/lower-abdominal-pain-when-is-it-time-to-worry/): Are you suffering discomfort in the area beneath your belly button? This lower abdominal pain (also known as pelvic pain)... - [Hymenectomy – Everything you need to know](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/hymenectomy-everything-you-need-to-know/): Do you experience pain when attempting to use tampons or have sexual intercourse? If so, you may be one of... - [7 Gynaecological conditions that affect pregnancy](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/7-gynaecological-conditions-that-affect-pregnancy/): Did you know there are some gynaecological conditions that affect pregnancy? What’s more, these conditions often lurk without symptoms, meaning... - [Help for menopause symptoms: How HRT can help](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/help-for-menopause-symptoms-how-hrt-can-help/): Are you seeking help for menopause symptoms? Through menopause and the years leading up (perimenopause), enormous hormone-related changes can affect... - [Sexual health taboos: Why it’s high time we ditched them!](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/sexual-health-taboos-why-its-high-time-we-ditched-them/): Sexual health is an issue affecting everyone. In 2019 alone, more than 2. 74 million people in England attended a... - [Pelvic pain: What is it and should I be worried?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/pelvic-pain-what-is-it-and-should-i-be-worried/): Are you experiencing pain in the region below your belly button? This lower abdominal pain is known as pelvic pain.... - [Why is having sex and using tampons painful?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-is-having-sex-and-using-tampons-painful/): Do you have any of the following problems? Pain during sex An inability to have sex due to a ‘brick... - [Vaginal discharge: What is normal and when should I be concerned?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-discharge-what-is-normal-and-when-should-i-be-concerned/): It’s totally normal for women to experience some vaginal discharge – most do. And while it’s not glamourous, it fulfils... - [Endometriosis and ovarian cancer: What's the link?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/endometriosis-and-ovarian-cancer-whats-the-link/): Endometriosis and ovarian cancer are two gynaecological diseases that share similar symptoms, and are difficult to diagnose. It was previously... - [Vaginal health 101 – stop doing these 6 things with your vagina!](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-health-101-stop-doing-these-6-things-with-your-vagina/): Your vaginal health is dependent on a number of controllable and uncontrollable factors. However, the former far outweighs the latter,... - [5 surprising symptoms of ovarian cancer](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/5-surprising-symptoms-of-ovarian-cancer/): Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the UK, with around 7,500 new cases each year. It is... - [Pelvic exams and cervical screening after sexual violence](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/pelvic-exams-and-cervical-screening-after-sexual-violence/): Cervical screening after sexual violence can make you feel apprehensive. We provide advice for survivors on how to feel more... - [Do I Still Need Smear Tests With The HPV Vaccination?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/do-i-still-need-smear-tests-with-the-hpv-vaccination/): In this article, we take a closer look at HPV, how it can cause cervical cancer, and why regular screenings... - [Boost Your Vaginal Confidence: Breaking The Taboo](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/boost-your-vaginal-confidence-breaking-the-taboo/): The vagina is a significant organ in the female anatomy, responsible for expelling waste from the body, giving birth and... - [Vaginal Dryness: How to tackle this common issue](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-dryness-how-to-tackle-this-common-issue/): Like many sexual health issues, vaginal dryness seems like a taboo subject in many circles. However, it is a very... - [5 Tips for improving sex during perimenopause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/5-tips-for-improving-sex-during-perimenopause/): In light of World Perimenopause Day (11th October), we look at the potential issues that someone with perimenopause may come... - [Vaginismus: Debunking The Myths](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginismus-debunking-the-myths/): You may have heard of a condition called vaginismus that affects women. Vaginismus is far more common than most women... - [What happens if you don’t have sex for a long time?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-happens-if-you-dont-have-sex-for-a-long-time/): The phrase ‘too much of a good thing’ can absolutely apply to sex – we know that too much sex... - [Why Your Vagina Burns After Having Sex](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-your-vagina-burns-after-having-sex/): Burning or stinging in your pubic region, of any kind, can be alarming. Instantly, your mind may conjure up the... - [What Increases The Risk Of Down’s Syndrome?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-increases-the-risk-of-downs-syndrome/): Down’s syndrome is a lifelong condition that manifests during pregnancy, and is defined by the foetus acquiring an extra chromosome.... - [What Happens To Your Vagina During Menopause?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-happens-to-your-vagina-during-menopause/): We all know that menopause marks the end of your periods, but what happens to your vagina during menopause? Did... - [What Can A Pregnancy Scan Tell You About Your Baby?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-can-a-pregnancy-scan-tell-you-about-your-baby/): What can a pregnancy scan tell you about your baby? A pregnancy scan presents an exciting opportunity to see your... - [Can You Test For HPV At Home?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/can-you-test-for-hpv-at-home/): Attendance for cervical screenings has fallen year on year across the country, despite the fact that cervical cancer is the... - [What Your Vaginal Microbiome Can Tell You About Your Feminine Health](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-your-vaginal-microbiome-can-tell-you-about-your-feminine-health/): Your vagina is home to millions of bacteria. This is collectively called a ‘vaginal microbiome’, and it can tell you... - [8 Tips for making your smear test more comfortable](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/8-tips-for-making-your-smear-test-more-comfortable/): Cervical Cancer Prevention Week takes place this month from 18th to 24th January and aims to raise awareness of the... - [Are Women Putting Off Pregnancy Due To COVID-19?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/are-women-putting-off-pregnancy-due-to-covid-19/): The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult and traumatic for people across the world, but there is one group of people... - [Bleeding between periods – What it means and when to worry](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/bleeding-between-periods-what-it-means-and-when-to-worry/): Bleeding between periods is called spotting. It’s usually a small amount of blood that does not require a sanitary towel... - [5 Things you didn't know about PCOS and menopause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/5-things-you-didnt-know-pcos-and-menopause/): Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common female hormone disorder that affects around 1 in 5 women in the UK.... - [6 Gynaecologist-Approved Tips For A Healthy Vagina](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/6-gynaecologist-approved-tips-for-a-healthy-vagina/): From itchiness to strange odours, there’s a lot that your vagina can tell you about its health. This incredible organ... - [Abortion Pills By Post Now Available to Women Across The UK (Except Scotland and Northern Ireland)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/abortion-pills-by-post-now-available-to-women-across-the-uk/): With 207,384 carried out in England and Wales in 2019, abortions are a vital part of the healthcare system. In... - [Pregnancy And Your Safety During COVID-19](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/pregnancy-and-your-safety-during-covid-19/): The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many areas of our lives, from the way we work to how we socialise. For... - [We Answer The Most Googled Questions About Smear Tests](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/we-answer-the-most-googled-questions-about-smear-tests/): If you’ve never had a smear test, the idea of it can seem a bit intimidating. It doesn’t help that... - [Is It Safe To Use An App As Birth Control?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/is-it-safe-to-use-an-app-as-birth-control/): With today’s technology, we can track how many calories we burn in a day, record our sleep patterns and even... - [Do I Really Need A Well Woman Check?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/do-i-really-need-a-well-woman-check/): With the busy lives we lead, it’s easy to see how the basics, like looking after our health, can slip... - [7 Tips For A Happy & Healthy Vagina](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/7-tips-for-a-happy-healthy-vagina/): It’s just as important to look after your vaginal health as it is to take care of the rest of... - [How Soon Can I Have A Baby Gender Scan?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/how-soon-can-i-have-a-baby-gender-scan/): How soon can I have a baby gender scan? Is a question we are asked frequently. With the excitement of... - [What Happens When You Stop Taking The Birth Control Pill?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-happens-when-you-stop-taking-the-birth-control-pill/): The combination pill is the most common type of hormonal birth control pill. This works by increasing the amount of... - [Genital Lumps - What causes bumps in the pubic area?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/genital-lumps-what-causes-bumps-in-the-pubic-area/): Genital lumps can be worrying, but whilst some are harmless, others are certainly a cause for concern. Dr Aka, Consultant... - [Low Libido: Reasons You May Have A Low Sex Drive](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/low-libido-reasons-you-may-have-a-low-sex-drive/): After a stressful day at work you’re feeling irritated, worn out, and all you’re dreaming of is getting home and... - [Fertility Problems – What Causes Infertility In Women?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/fertility-problems-what-causes-infertility-in-women/): Over 80% of couples will become pregnant within a year of trying for a baby, but a significant number –... - [STI Testing: Your Sexual Health Questions Answered](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/sti-testing-your-sexual-health-questions-answered/): According to new data from Public Health England cases of STIs are on the rise: From 2017-2018 there was a... - [Abortion Rights and FAQs](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/abortion-rights-and-faqs/): “Whilst women are confident in their decision to have an abortion, others are unsure and have many questions. ” explains... - [What happens to your vagina as you age?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-happens-to-your-vagina-as-you-age/): We all know that crows feet, creaky joints and grey hair are a natural part of aging, but what happens... - [Does My Vulva Look Normal? Do I Need A Labiaplasty?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/does-my-vulva-look-normal-do-i-need-a-labiaplasty/): “‘Does my vulva look normal? ’ and ‘Do I need a labiaplasty’ are questions I get asked frequently. Many women... - [What Are The Causes Of Lower Abdominal Pain In Women?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-are-the-causes-of-lower-abdominal-pain-in-women/): Are you experiencing either dull or sharp lower abdominal pain? Lower abdominal pain in women, also known as pelvic pain,... - [7 Signs You Need To See A Gynaecologist](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/7-signs-you-need-to-see-a-gynaecologist/): Do I need to see a gynaecologist? When it comes to gynaecological health, women often feel too embarrassed to talk... - [Gynaecological Health: Breaking The Taboo](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/gynaecological-health-breaking-the-taboo/): Women are quite literally dying of embarrassment when it comes to their gynaecological health. Love pocket, vajayjay, muff, beaver, lady... - [Can Birth Control Cause Infertility?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/can-birth-control-cause-infertility/): “Can birth control cause infertility? ” “Can birth control harm your fertility? ” “Can hormonal contraception keep you from getting... - [Vaginal Itching – An itch you just can't scratch](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-itching-an-itch-you-just-cant-scratch/): Got an itch you just can’t seem to scratch? There’s no need to be embarrassed, vaginal itching is far more... - [Abnormal Smear: What Does An Abnormal Smear Mean?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/abnormal-smear-what-does-an-abnormal-smear-mean/): What does an abnormal smear mean? Are abnormal smear results common? What causes an abnormal smear? Do abnormal cells always... - [Early Signs Of Infertility In Women](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/early-signs-of-infertility-in-women/): Planning on starting a family one day? As many as one in six couples in the UK experience fertility problems.... - [Vaginal Health Tips From Celebrities That You Should Ignore](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-health-tips-from-celebrities-that-you-should-ignore/): We look to celebrities to give us pointers for all kind of things; style, beauty products, even where to travel.... - [What Are The First Signs Of An STI?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-are-the-first-signs-of-an-sti/): Have you ever wondered about the first signs of an STI? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent, especially in London... - [Why does sex hurt? 8 Reasons you’re having painful intercourse (Dyspareunia)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/why-does-sex-hurt-8-reasons-youre-having-painful-intercourse-dyspareunia/): Research shows that nearly one in ten women in Britain experience pain during sex. That's a few too many for... - [Private Gynaecology – Why you Should See A Private Gynaecologist](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/private-gynaecology-why-you-should-see-a-private-gynaecologist/): Many wonder about why you should see a private gynaecologist and what makes a private gynaecology appointment different. Is it... - [Medical Or Surgical Abortion: Which One Should I Have?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/medical-or-surgical-abortion-which-one-should-i-have/): Considering abortion options is not something most women ever wish to undertake. However, around 185,000 women, aged between 15-44, have... - [Which Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) Is Best?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/which-non-invasive-prenatal-test-nipt-is-best/): Trying to navigate early pregnancy can be a stressful time; there are lots to things to think about and consider,... - [Do I Have Endometriosis? The Difference Between Period Pain And Endometriosis](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/do-i-have-endometriosis-the-difference-between-period-pain-and-endometriosis/): What Is Endometriosis? There are around 200 different types of cells within the human body, each designed to perform their... - [The Effect Of Stress On Women’s Health](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/the-effect-of-stress-on-womens-health/): This month is stress awareness month and whilst the mental health aspect of stress is well documented, sometimes we neglect... - [Cervical Smear Tests: What They’re Really Like](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/cervical-smear-tests-what-theyre-really-like/): For women who haven’t yet had their first cervical smear test, the idea can be daunting and even a little... - [How To Prepare For Menopause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/how-to-prepare-for-menopause/): What is the menopause and can you really prepare for it? Here, we take a look at the symptoms you... - [Stress & Fertility – How Does Stress Affect Fertility?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/stress-fertility-how-does-stress-affect-fertility/): Does stress affect fertility and if so, how? We sat down with Dr Alex Eskander, Director of The Gynae Centre... - [Vaginal Mesh – Your Pelvic Floor And How To Help Protect It](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/vaginal-mesh-your-pelvic-floor-and-how-to-help-protect-it/): The Sling the Mesh campaign has hit the headlines recently, revealing that many women who have undergone pelvic organ prolapse... - [Women Are Suffering Vulval Pain In Silence – Is It Time To Start Taking This More Seriously?](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/women-are-suffering-vulval-pain-in-silence-is-it-time-to-start-taking-this-more-seriously/): You’ve probably never heard of it – and yet you may well know a woman affected by it. Vulvodynia is... - [What to expect if you have a medical abortion (with pill)](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/what-to-expect-if-you-have-a-medical-abortion-with-pill/): If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering a termination, it is likely you will want to know what... - [Not Getting Pregnant? Hidden STIs Could Be The Cause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/not-getting-pregnant-hidden-stis-could-be-the-cause/): If you’re trying for a baby and it’s taking longer than expected, there may be a number of worries that... - [Cervical Cancer: What You Need To Know](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/cervical-cancer-what-you-need-to-know/): The cervix is a cylindrical shaped passage, around two to three centimetres long that connects the uterus to the vagina.... - [When Sex Hurts: The Botox Cure For Vaginismus](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/when-sex-hurts-the-botox-cure-for-vaginismus/): It’s the most natural thing in the world and yet for women with vaginismus, sex is so painful it becomes... - [Yeast Infections: 7 Surprising Causes](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/yeast-infections-7-surprising-causes/): What’s that itching? Oh no, it’s a yeast infection... The majority of women will experience this uncomfortable problem at some... - [The Pros And Cons Of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) For The Menopause](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/hormone-replacement-therapy-for-menopause/): If you are a woman approaching the menopause, it can be a frightening time. Watching your periods ebb away and... - [6 Terrible Vagina Trends You May Have Fallen Victim To](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/6-terrible-vagina-trends-you-may-have-fallen-victim-to/): When it comes to our lady gardens, knowledge is power. Knowing what to watch for can help you spot warning... - [Top 5 Symptoms of Gynae Disorders that Every Woman Should Watch For](https://www.gynae-centre.co.uk/blog/top-5-symptoms-of-gynae-disorders-that-every-woman-should-watch-for/): Have you noticed any of these? Yes, talking about ‘down there’ and getting checked is embarrassing. So embarrassing that research... --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages NO WAIT TIMES Private endometriosis treatment – fast-track your diagnosis In the UK, women now wait an average of 8 years and 10 months for a diagnosis of endometriosis, and generally, waiting lists for non-cancer gynaecology treatments have increased. That’s why women who don’t want to wait are turning to private endometriosis treatment to get much-needed relief and peace of mind sooner rather than later. Put your health first, not at the back of a waiting list. The Gynae Centre offers fast, compassionate care when you need it most, backed by immediate pelvic ultrasound, so you can get back to living your life and doing the activities you love. Book a consultation WHY US? No waiting list Expert specialist gynaecologists offering appointments to suit your in central London. Accessibly priced Our facilities are approved by the Care Quality Commission for day surgery, meaning we can cut your costs up to 50% by avoiding hospital admission. State of the art facilities Advanced diagnostic services including ultrasound and hysteroscopy. Tailored treatment plans Including hormonal management or minor surgery as required. THE FACTS What is endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus is found elsewhere, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes or around the bladder, and in more severe cases, the rectum, bowel and the chest cavity (known as thoracic endometriosis). This causes symptoms like painful or irregular periods, bleeding and pain between periods, bloating, painful urination or intercourse, fatigue, and a risk of infertility. Book a consultation... --- YOUR HEALTH IS OUR PRIORITY Private hysteroscopy procedure in London We are delighted to be able to offer our patients minimally invasive outpatient hysteroscopy procedures. We use the revolutionary LiNA Operascope for uterus investigations and treatment of common conditions without the need for sedation or general anaesthesia. A hysteroscopy is the gold standard for identifying and treating conditions that cause abnormal uterine bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular spotting between periods, and bleeding after menopause. We have both a Russian-speaking consultant gynaecologist, and a Romanian-speaking consultant gynaecologist who specialises in hysteroscopy. Book a consultation WHY US? State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK. No need for sedation We use the minimally invasive LiNA Operascope for uterus investigations and treatment of common conditions without the need for sedation and no need for an overnight stay. Experienced consultants The Gynae Centre is home to highly skilled and experienced consultant gynaecologists with years of experience in hysteroscopy. Competitive costs To make life easier, we offer the hysteroscopy procedure as a package at a highly competitive price. Calm, comfortable space Our discreet clinic offers a calm and relaxing waiting room. Your comfort is our top priority. Unrivalled support We understand you may be feeling anxious about the procedure. Our understanding team of nurses will help to put you at ease. WHo's IT FOR? Why would you need a hysteroscopy procedure? The first line of investigation... --- ABORTION CLINIC FOR ROMANIANS About Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall and the services offered at The Gynae Centre Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall is an experienced gynecologist, known for his warm, patient-centered approach and dedication to providing personalized care. With an extensive career in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Mokoonlall supports Romanian-speaking patients in England, UK, offering comprehensive reproductive health care, including abortion services. Dr. Mokoonlall is fluent in Romanian, enabling him to communicate effectively with Romanian-speaking patients, understand their needs, and provide empathetic, personalized support. At The Gynae Centre, Dr. Mokoonlall offers professional and confidential care for patients seeking:• Medical abortion (including the pill by post)• Surgical abortion• Detailed consultations and step-by-step guidance• Ultrasound scans and post-abortion supportDr. Mokoonlall is dedicated to ensuring a safe environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their journey. Despre Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall și serviciile oferite la The Gynae Centre Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall este un ginecolog experimentat, cunoscut pentru abordarea sa caldă, centrată pe pacient, și pentru dedicarea cu care oferă îngrijire personalizată. Cu o carieră vastă în obstetrică și ginecologie, Dr. Mokoonlall își sprijină pacienții români din Anglia, Regatul Unit, oferind îngrijire completă în domeniul sănătății reproductive, inclusiv servicii de avort. Dr. Mokoonlall vorbește fluent limba română, ceea ce îi permite să comunice eficient cu pacienții români, înțelegându-le nevoile și oferind sprijin empatic și personalizat. La The Gynae Centre, Dr. Mokoonlall oferă suport profesional și confidențial pentru pacienții care au nevoie de: • Avort medicamentos (inclusiv pilula trimisă prin poștă) • Avort chirurgical • Consultații detaliate... --- PATIENT-CENTERED APPROACH Consultant Gynaecologist GMC number: 7115474 Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall is known for his warm demeanour and patient-centered approach. He takes pride in creating a safe and welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns. With kindness, empathy, and attentive listening, Dr. Mokoonlall ensures each patient receives personalised care. Originally from Mauritius, Dr. Mokoonlall earned his medical degree from the Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, in 2008. He completed his specialist training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2014, joining the GMC Specialist Register the same year. He is also an associate member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Dr. Mokoonlall worked as a Consultant Gynaecologist with a special interest in fertility at Salford Royal Foundation Trust, Manchester. His extensive career spans roles at NHS hospitals and private clinics, including Create Fertility, Reproductive Health Group, and Northway Clinic, with a strong focus on fertility and reproductive health. Dr. Mokoonlall brings expertise across all areas of gynaecological care, with a particular interest in reproductive medicine and minimally invasive surgery. He specialises in managing abnormal bleeding, conducting gynaecological ultrasounds, and performing outpatient hysteroscopy. His extensive experience includes abortion care, both medical and surgical, and he is a skilled gynaecological surgeon known for performing surgical terminations under ultrasound guidance with exceptional care. Dedicated to advancing patient outcomes, Dr. Mokoonlall combines clinical excellence with a genuine commitment to improving women’s health. Looking for a Romanian-speaking gynaecologist for abortion services? The Gynae Centre is an abortion clinic in... --- ATTENTIVE & RESPECTFUL Consultant Gynaecologist GMC number: 6118165Mr Alex Steshenko is an experienced consultant gynaecologist who is compassionate and welcoming, treating each patient with integrity and empathy. He is known for his attentive approach, making sure every patient feels comfortable, is treated with kindness and respect, and involved in decision-making. Mr Steshenko completed his initial Degree in medicine at the Ukrainian Medical and Dental Academy in 2000. The same year he moved to the UK and since then, he has continually evolved his knowledge and furthered his training in obstetrics, gynaecology, and fertility. He is skilled in laparoscopy and hysteroscopy procedures and is currently undergoing training in colposcopy at the British Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology. Most recently he has spent time working as a Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Princess Royal University Hospital. Mr Steshenko has a special interest in early pregnancy and gynaecology ultrasound scanning, sub-fertility and reproductive health. We are delighted to be able to offer our patients the benefits of Mr Steshenko’s expertise. EDUCATION Qualifications MBBS – Ukrainian Medical and Dental Academy, 2000MRCOG – Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 2019MSc Reproduction and Development – University of Bristol, 2019PGA Assisted and Reproductive Technology – University of Warwick, 2016Diploma of The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare, 2014Member of European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)Member of British Menopause Society (BMS)Languages: English, Ukrainian, Russian. --- CARING & COMPASSIONATE Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist GMC number: 7042794Dr Grainger, better known by her patients and colleagues as Rosie, gained her core completion of training from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists in 2020. Her special interests are Office Gynaecology, Abortion care, Family Planning, Early Pregnancy & Acute Gynaecology & Menopause Care. She practises Obstetrics in a busy NHS labour ward locally and is surgically trained. Dr Grainger originally trained and obtained her medical degree in Newcastle Upon Tyne and is from the North West of England. She is personable and knowledgeable when it comes to women's health and has over 12 years of experience in this field of medicine. She has a diploma in Family Planning and certification in Early Pregnancy & Acute Gynaecological Ultrasound & Sexual Health. She also has advanced skills in abortion care and is passionate about providing this important service. EDUCATION Qualifications MBBS - Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of SurgeryDFSRH - Diplomate of the Faculty of Sexual & Reproductive HealthMRCOG - Member of the Royal College of Obstetricians & GynaecologistsCertification of completion of training and specialist registration with the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, 2020Member of the British Society of Abortion Care Providers (BSACP)Member of the British Menopause Society (BMS)Letter of competence in Intrauterine Device Insertion & RemovalLetter of competence in Subdermal Implant Insertion & RemovalLanguages: English --- THANK YOU Thank you for making a booking with The Gynae Centre. You will shortly receive an email confirming your booking. All patients visiting the clinic in person are required to fill in the following form to ensure we maintain a COVID-19 free environment in the clinic for the safety of our patients and staff. COVID-19 appointment checklist Please also familiarise yourself with our Terms & Conditions. We look forward to welcoming you. If you have any questions, please call us on 020 7580 8090 or email ask@gynae-centre. co. uk. --- Pages About us Dr A Eskander (MBChB, FRCOG) Dr B Mokoonlall (MD) Dr C Grainger (MBBS, MRCOG, DFSRH) Media centre Mr A Steshenko (MBBS, MRCOG, MSc, PGA) Book your appointment online Cookies policy COVID-19 appointment checklist COVID-19 update Fees Links Our services Abnormal smear and colposcopy Abnormal vaginal bleeding Abortion clinic for Romanians in London, UK Baby gender scan Early pregnancy scans Fertility problems Hysteroscopy procedure Medical abortion pills by post Medical abortion using pill Menopause Minor surgeries Panorama prenatal test (NIPT) Pregnancy termination surgery Sexual health Telephone consultations Vaginal pain & discharge Vaginismus Very Early Medical Abortion Well woman check Privacy Policy Site map Terms and Conditions Thank you for booking Thank you for your enquiry Home page Blog Contact us --- The Gynae Centre will be in touch soon. --- COVID-19 We would like to reassure you that The Gynae Centre will remain open during the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. All patients will continue to receive the very highest levels of care and attention to detail. We would like to reassure you that we take COVID-19 precautions very seriously. We regularly clean the premises during the day, deep clean after hours, check your temperature upon arrival and provide you with a face mask as soon as you arrive. To enable us to continue to supply your healthcare needs, in addition to face-to-face consultations, we have introduced remote consultations through the phone or video. We advise patients who attend not to bring their partners or family members with them unless he/she is a translator, to avoid the potential spread of infection. PLEASE NOTE: IF YOU HAVE COUGH, FEVER OR DIFFICULTY BREATHING DO NOT COME TO THE CLINIC, SELF ISOLATE FOR 14 DAYS AND CONTACT US AFTER.   How do remote consultations work? You can still book an appointment online as usual, through our Book An Appointment page. Please specify if you would prefer a phone or video consultation. For video consultations we will send a link to your email address. Alternatively, we can arrange for it via FaceTime or by phone. The receptionist will call you at the time of your consultation to complete payment for the service that you require. You will then be connected with the consultant and nurse. As with face-to-face consultations, you will have up to 30 minutes... --- THE FINE PRINT The Gynae Centre only uses information from sources believed to be correct, but the website may contain inaccuracies. The use of information from The Gynae Centre website is at your own risk. The Gynae Centre will assume no liability relating to any errors on The Gynae Centre website. Information on The Gynae Centre website is not intended as a substitute for medical advice and may not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition without the consultation of a qualified health care provider. Please note The Gynae Centre does not accept responsibility or liability for any treatment outcome, consultations, medical decisions or diagnoses. Our Consultants are independently insured and are solely responsible for their own decisions and outcome of their treatment. If you are dissatisfied with any treatment, consultation or diagnosis, the responsibility lies with the consultant involved and NOT The clinic itself i. e. The Gynae Centre. This page was updated 12/05/2022 The Gynae Centre Ltd is a registered LTD company No 03542527 Please read these Terms carefully. They set out the basis upon which you will be provided with treatment at The Gynae Centre. The Gynae Centre may update these Terms from time to time, however changes to the Terms will only apply to any new treatment or Treatment Package you receive, at which point you will be asked to agree to any new Terms before they come into effect. Note that any new Terms will not apply to a Treatment Package which is... --- HONESTY & TRANSPARENCY The Gynae Centre wants you to feel confident about the privacy and security of your personal information. This cookies policy explains how The Gynae Centre uses cookies in relation to that information. When we refer to ‘personal information’ in this policy, we mean information which identifies you as an individual, or is capable of doing so. This cookies policy was last updated on 2/02/2022. What are cookies? The Site uses cookies to distinguish you from other users of our website. A ‘cookie’ is a small amount of data which often includes a unique identifier that is sent to your computer, tablet or mobile phone (referred to here as a ‘device’) browser from a website's computer and is stored on your device's hard drive, mobile or other device. There are different types of cookies which are used to do different things such as allowing you to navigate between pages on a website efficiently, remembering your preferences on a certain web pages, or improving your overall experience. Other cookies can provide you with advertising which is more tailored to your interests or measure the number of site visits and the most popular pages users visit. How to disable cookies Most web browsers automatically accept cookies, but you can disable this function by changing your browser settings if you so wish. To find out more about cookies including what they are, how to control them or how to delete them, please visit www. aboutcookies. org. What cookies does The Gynae... --- Help for menopause symptoms: How HRT can helpAre you seeking help for menopause symptoms? Through menopause and the years leading up (perimenopause), enormous hormone-related changes can affect... Read article Sexual health taboos: Why it’s high time we ditched them! Sexual health is an issue affecting everyone. In 2019 alone, more than 2. 74 million people in England attended a sexual... Read article Pelvic pain: What is it and should I be worried? Are you experiencing pain in the region below your belly button? This lower abdominal pain is known as pelvic pain... . Read article Why is having sex and using tampons painful? Do you have any of the following problems? Pain during sex An inability to have sex due to a ‘brick... Read article Vaginal discharge: What is normal and when should I be concerned? It’s totally normal for women to experience some vaginal discharge – most do. And while it’s not glamourous, it fulfils... Read article Endometriosis and ovarian cancer: What’s the link? Endometriosis and ovarian cancer are two gynaecological diseases that share similar symptoms, and are difficult to diagnose. It was previously... Read article Vaginal health 101 – stop doing these 6 things with your vagina! Your vaginal health is dependent on a number of controllable and uncontrollable factors. However, the former far outweighs the latter,... Read article 5 surprising symptoms of ovarian cancerOvarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the UK, with around 7,500 new cases each year. It is... Read article Pelvic exams... --- IN THE NEWS In the press As a leading gynaecology clinic we are often asked to comment on the news, and topical events. Below you will find a small selection of magazines and websites that the clinic, and our consultants, have been featured in. AS FEATURED IN DOSE – Dr Eskander answers 5 burning gynaecology questions Can rough sex be too rough? Does my vagina look normal? What are you thinking if my vagina smells or looks unpleasant? Dr Eskander answers those burning questions you’ve been dying to ask. Read more NetDoctor – The colour and consistency of your menstrual bleed, and what it means Dr Eskander speaks to NetDoctor about period blood, and how different colours and textures can indicate a healthy period or vaginal health issues. Read more NetDoctor – What are the symptoms of vulvodynia? And how is it treated? Dr Eskander advises NetDoctor about chronic, unexplained pain in the vulva and discusses causes, symptoms and treatment. Read more Cosmopolitan UK – Why learning how to finger well is important – and how to do it As part of Cosmo’s self-love series, Dr Eskander talks about fingering from a gynaecological point of view. Read more Cosmopolitan UK – Advice on self-pleasure and its benefits The benefits of self-pleasure are plentiful. However, there are wrong and right ways when it comes to masturbation. Dr Eskander explains. Read more NetDoctor – Toxic Shock Syndrome: the most common causes and treatments of TSS Dr Eskander discusses important points about TSS... --- USEFUL LINKS The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy One of London's leading private Assisted Conception (IVF) clinic specialising in IVF / ICSI, Reproductive Immunology and Egg donation and sharing. Read more The Fetal Medicine Foundation The Fetal Medicine Foundation is a charitable organisation at the forefront of research, education and training in fetal medicine. Read more Digital Catalyst A London based agency that caters exclusively for the branding and marketing needs of the private healthcare industry. Read more --- COVID-19 Protecting patients and staff All patients visiting the clinic are required to fill in the following form to ensure we maintain a COVID-19 free environment in the clinic for the safety of our patients and staff. We would like to reassure you that we follow all the precautions recommended by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Ministry of Health regarding infection control. This means that we maintain high levels of hygiene at all times and are taking the following steps to ensure your safety: Continuous sterilisation of surfaces Nurses and clients are required to wear face masks at all times Recommended social distance between patient and staff/medical professionals is enforced The number of clients in the waiting room is kept to a minimum to help maintain social distancing measures. We apologise that only patients are currently allowed in the clinic Section 1: High risk categories Are you in a high-risk category? (Do you have had a shielding letter from the Government? ) YesNo Have you been in contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last two weeks? YesNo Section 2: Do you or anyone in your household have any of the following? A new persistent cough? YesNo A temperature of 38 degrees or above? YesNo Loss of taste or smell? YesNo Please phone the clinic on 020 7580 8090 to discuss and consider instead booking a remote video/telephone consultation. Section 3: Increased risk categories Are you over 65? YesNo Do you suffer... --- BOOK ONLINE You can now reserve your consultation at The Gynae Centre using our booking form below. Simply enter your information, choose a suitable day and appointment time. Please note that you will be required to make full payment upon booking. All our prices are listed on the fees page. Also, all patients visiting the clinic are required to complete the COVID-19 questionnaire. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Cancellation policy Please read our terms and conditions which detail our cancellation policy prior to making any bookings. Appointment timings Whilst we aim to see all our patients in a timely manner, due to the nature of medical consultations delays of up to 30 minutes (sometimes more) can be experienced. We appreciate your understanding in this regard. Surgical procedures For all other surgical procedures, please book a Consultation with Dr Eskander for an examination and assessment of your needs. Surgical abortions For all surgical abortions please book the Consultation + Ultrasound package. We will examine you and assess your needs. The surgery will then be booked as soon as possible, depending on availability. The cost of this will be deducted from the overall cost of your surgery. Please note that surgical abortion above 12 weeks requires 48 hours preparation. Abortion pills by post The Gynae Centre is not responsible for third party delivery services. We use reliable couriers (DPD) to deliver medication. If your package is not received within 3 days, please contact us. Unfortunately no refunds can be given as a result of courier... --- OUR FOUNDER Consultant Gynaecologist & Medical Director GMC number: 2675035 When Dr Eskander set up The Gynae Centre in 1999 it was the realisation of a life’s ambition; namely to be able to utilise his wealth of experience to provide a one-stop gynaecological service for women, allowing problems to be diagnosed and treated in one visit. Dr Eskander was admitted as a distinguished Member of the Royal College of Obstetrician and Gynaecologists as long ago as 1977. By 1983 he was acknowledged as one of the few obstetricians and gynaecologists in the world who could make an accurate and confident diagnosis of fetal abnormalities and gynaecological problems using ultrasound. In 1989 he moved overseas to help organise the obstetric unit at the prestigious teaching hospital in Bahrain, one of the first hospitals in the middle east to introduce IVF. Since returning to the UK in 1993, Dr Eskander has gained a reputation as one of the pre-eminent gynaecologists working in London. He was one of the first doctors to provide colposcopy service and laser treatment. Dr Eskander is also a consultant in the field of assisted conception. He is the co-director of The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy, where he practices two afternoons every week alongside Dr Gorgy. EDUCATION Qualifications MBChB – Alexandria University (Egypt), 1970MRCOG – Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 1977FRCOG – Fellowship of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 1997Member of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISUOG)Member of the British... --- HONESTY & TRANSPARENCY Private gynaecology care at its finest The Gynae Centre was established in 1999 to provide women with a professional gynaecology care service in a relaxed setting, to fit around their busy lives. Appointments at The Gynae Centre are made at your convenience, with most investigations including ultrasound, colposcopy and blood tests available on site. Results are usually available immediately or within 24 hours depending on the nature of the test. This enables our highly experienced consultants to make a quick and accurate diagnosis, helping you to identify your problems in one visit in most cases. We then provide a detailed report so you’ll have a full understanding of any issues and a clear explanation of the treatment options which you can pass on to your doctor for future reference. Years in business 7 Patients treated 100 + Results available within 5 hrs Top consultants 14 We promise honesty and transparency from the moment you call us to the end of the consultation, treating you with the utmost respect and care. OUR TEAM Our consultants Dr Alex Eskander Consultant Gynaecologist Read more Dr Catherine Rosie Grainger Consultant Gynaecologist Read more Mr Alex Steshenko Consultant Gynaecologist Read more Dr Bhushan Mokoonlall Consultant Gynaecologist Read more Our support team Charmaine Michael Practice Manager Charmaine has been with us since the day we opened in 1999. She obtained a degree in Biology and Sciences from the American University in Beirut, and continued her studies at Berkeley University, with a Master's in... --- CQC APPROVED Save on hospital costs Here at The Gynae centre, our facilities are approved by the Care Quality Commission for day surgery. This means we are able to cut your costs by about 50% in avoiding admission to hospital. Call to book WHY US? Your surgery, your choice Most minor surgeries require only local anaesthesia which saves on cost. However, should you prefer to be asleep, we are happy to provide a highly qualified anaesthetist to administer deep sedation. State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK, and home to renowned gynaecology expert – Dr Alex Eskander. Convenient appointments We will endeavour to book you in as soon as possbile. All appointments are made to fit around your busy lifestyle. Consultant-led service You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist and naturally, your visit will be treated with 100% confidentiality. SERVICES Types of surgeries and costs The most common procedures are listed below: Hymenectomy with local anaesthesia or under sedation Botox for vaginismus Bartholin’s cyst marsupialization under local anaesthesia Bartholin’s cyst incision under local anaesthesia Manual vacuum aspiration of the uterus under local anaesthesia Diathermy for genital warts Loop excision (LLETZ) with local anaesthesia (& specimen analysis) These procedures may be performed under deep sedation for an additional fee. Most of the above procedures require admission and postoperative stay for 1-2 hours. You should be able to resume your normal... --- YOU'RE NOT ALONE Is penetrative sex painful (or even impossible)? Vaginismus is a rare condition which involves involuntary contractions of the vaginal muscles which leads to pain and difficulty in having penetrative intercourse. Fortunately, vaginismus can be treated effectively with Botox. Dr Alex Eskander is a pioneer in vaginismus treatment with Botox in the UK. He has over 10 years of experience in successfully treating vaginismus with Botox. Call to book WHY US? Over 90% success rate Our approach to vaginismus treatment has a high success rate. We have many happy patients! State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK. Convenient appointments We will endeavour to book you in as soon as possbile. All appointments are made to fit around your busy lifestyle. Consultant-led service You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist and naturally, your visit will be treated with 100% confidentiality. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about vaginismus Vaginismus is an unusual medical condition. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms, you probably have many questions! Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about vaginismus treatment using Botox. https://www. youtube. com/embed/IAE551id9Ik What causes vaginismus? The cause of vaginismus is unknown, and it can be very distressing. Until recently, psychotherapy and training with vaginal dilators were used to help overcome the problem but these were often not successful. You may like to read our articles When Sex... --- CONSULTATIONS FROM ANYWHERE Making consultations more convenient Consultations over the phone have been introduced at The Gynae Centre in response to the busy lifestyle of many of our customers. Hectic work schedules or increasing pressures of family life mean that this may be the most convenient way to discuss your problem. Book a consultation KNOWLEDGE Making life easier for overseas patients A telephone consultation are also a practical option if you are an overseas client who is unable to arrange a face-to-face meeting but still needs a qualified and experienced opinion. If you would like a telephone consultation, we will be glad to schedule a 30-minute call with one of our consultants to discuss your problem and advise you on the various treatment options. Book consultation --- 100% CONFIDENTIAL Discreet, confidential sexual health testing Looking after sexual health is of paramount importance. Not only because sexual disease spread easily between partners but more importantly it can lead to serious and permanent damage to both women and men. At the Gynae Centre you can have both Mini and Full sexual health screens in our private clinic in London. Our consultant can advise you which tests are important for your profile and age group. We can also provide sexual health testing for men. Book online WHY US? Convenient appointments We will endeavour to book you in as soon as possbile. All appointments are made to fit around your busy lifestyle. State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK. KNOWLEDGE Sexual health screening – what you need to know https://www. youtube. com/embed/9ci8MXhfhvY Most common sexual diseases The most common sexual diseases are chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Less common are genital herpes (which can also be transmitted by oral sex, Human Papilloma Virus (responsible for cancer of the cervix, genital warts, vulval and penile cancer), syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Can STIs affect my health? In women it can cause blockage of tubes leading to sub-fertility and in men to obstruction of the vas which transport the sperms responsible for transportation of the sperms. Most of the sexually transmitted diseases can be prevented by use of a condom and ensuring no penetration... --- HEALTH MOT Reassurance at all stages of life Thanks to our increasingly busy lifestyles, finding time to visit the doctor isn’t always easy. It’s worth remembering that although time is precious for everyone, it’s not nearly as precious as our health. The good news is that health checks don’t take long and needn’t be expensive. The even better news is that early screening can save lives, which is why increasing numbers of women are opting to undergo an annual health check. Whether you’d like a routine check or you have some concerns about your health, The Gynae Centre is here to provide reassurance and peace of mind. Book online WHY US? Convenient appointments We will endeavour to book you in as soon as possbile. All appointments are made to fit around your busy lifestyle. Consultant-led service You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist and naturally, your visit will be treated with 100% confidentiality. State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK, and home to renowned gynaecology expert – Dr Alex Eskander. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about the well woman check https://www. youtube. com/embed/UZfyCx7nqao What is a well woman check? Every year in the UK alone 7,300 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, 55,900 new breast cancer cases. A well woman check provides advanced preventative screening for common gynaecological disorders and breast disease. Why do I need a well... --- SEXING SCAN Can't wait to discover the sex of your baby? We can reveal the gender of your baby as early as 12 weeks into your pregnancy (other clinics offer 16 weeks) with 99% accuracy. How do we do this? Our consultants are some of the finest in the UK, which really sets us apart. In fact, we are so confident that we even offer a money back guarantee! Book a scan WHY US? Gender scans at 12 weeks Our skilled consultants can determine the sex of your baby from as early as 12 weeks into your pregnancy. (Most clinics offer the sexing scan only from 16 weeks onwards. ) Money back guarantee Our 12 week gender scans are 99% accurate. We're so confident that we even offer a money back guarantee! To be able to see the baby’s sex, the baby must be lying in the appropriate position. It can take up to 1 hour for the baby to turn. Same day appointments There's no need to wait weeks for an appointment! We offer same day appointments where possible. And, you can book online today. Experienced consultants Dr Eskander has over 30 years experience in ultrasound gender identification from as early as 12 weeks. Research studies and our experience showed that gender diagnosis can be as accurate as 100% after 12 weeks. Find out how many weeks pregnant you are. Use the pregnancy due date calendar. KNOWLEDGE How do you tell if a baby is a boy or girl... --- PEACE OF MIND Quick, effective treatment when you need it Around 1 in 20 women will receive an abnormal smear result. It's completely normal to feel anxious if you've had a letter telling you your smear test results are abnormal. But what does it mean? Should you be worried? At The Gynae Centre we offer further investigation using colposcopy to look for abnormalities in the cells, and are able to provide the appropriate treatment, if any is required. Book a consultation WHY US? Same day appointments We understand that abnormal smear results can make you feel worried and anxious, so we offer same day appointments where possible. Experienced consultants At the Gynae Centre we have a range of gynaecologists with many years of experience to give you peace of mind. SERVICES How we can help you We provide the full range of smear test-related services. Our team of caring nurses and consultants are skilled making patients comfortable. https://www. youtube. com/embed/r-HaZTHvDnE Cervical smear test A smear is obtained by gently scraping the outer part of the cervix which is nowadays dissolved in a preservative pot, where the cells are examined under a microscope for abnormalities. The abnormal smear Abnormal smear results usually create anxiety in patients, so we offer same day appointments. Where results show mild, moderate or severe abnormalities, it does not mean that you have cancer. They only indicate pre-cancerous abnormalities, which if left untreated can progress to cancer. We believe that all abnormalities should be investigated by a... --- PEACE OF MIND Concerned about abnormal bleeding? Abnormal unprovoked vaginal bleeding commonly occurs from the uterus. At the Gynae Centre we can perform an investigation by ultrasound to determine the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment. In some cases, a hysteroscopy procedure may be required. Book a consultation WHY US? No waiting lists As a private gynaecology clinic we don't have a waiting list. This means no unnecessary waiting for an appointment, and you can book at your convenience. Experienced consultants At the Gynae Centre we have a range of experienced gynaecologists with many years of experience to give you peace of mind. WHAT's NORMAL? Normal menstruation To understand why abnormal bleeding happens, it's important to understand how normal menstruation happens. The act of menstruation takes place as a result of a complex interaction between hormones called FSH and LH which are secreted by a small gland in the brain called the Pituitary Gland. At the start of the menstrual cycle, FSH stimulates one of the follicles in the ovaries to mature by day 14 of the cycle. The maturing follicle in turn produces another hormone called oestrogen. This makes the lining of the womb thicker in preparation of receiving the fertilised egg. Following ovulation, progesterone is secreted from the remainder of the follicle, which is then known as the corpus luteum. This also acts on the lining of the womb and makes it full of nutritional value for when implantation occurs, until the embryo is able to support itself.... --- PRIVATE PANORAMA TEST Trusted non-invasive prenatal testing The Panorama test is a safe and accurate, non-invasive prenatal DNA screening test (NIPT) that checks your baby for chromosome conditions by analysing abnormalities in the DNA. The Panorama test screens for a wide range of abnormalities including Down’s Syndrome, Patau Syndrome and Edwards’ Syndrome. It is the only test on the market that tests for Triploidy and can also determine the gender of your baby. Results determine the mother’s risk of having a baby with one of these defects. Book your test WHY US? State of the art facilities The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK, and home to renowned gynaecology expert – Dr Alex Eskander. No waiting lists As a private gynaecology clinic we don't have a waiting list. This means no unnecessary waiting for an appointment, and you can book at your convenience. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about the Panorama test We're sure you've questions about the Panorama test. below, we have answered the most frequently asked questions about this service to put your mind at ease. Do I need the Panorama test? The Panorama test is ideal for mothers who are anxious about birth defects in their baby and would like to be reassured about the health of their pregnancy. The International Society for Prenatal Diagnosis (ISPD) states that the Panorama test is appropriate for all ages. The test could give mothers over 35, who have a higher risk... --- PRIVATE SCANS Worried about your pregnancy? Whether you are on a short visit to the UK or simply want to confirm your pregnancy, The Gynae Centre is here to help give you peace of mind. We provide all early pregnancy scans, including pregnancy confirmation scan, viability scan, and Down's screen scan, from our conveniently located private clinic in central London. Book your scan WHY US? No waiting lists As a private gynaecology clinic we don't have a waiting list. This means no unnecessary waiting for an appointment, and you can book at your convenience. Experienced consultants At the Gynae Centre we have a range of experienced gynaecologists and obstetricians who are skilled at pregnancy scans to give you peace of mind. KNOWLEDGE Which early pregnancy scan do I need? We provide the full range of early pregnancy scans. Find out more about each type of scan below. Pregnancy confirmation scan Our experienced consultants can detect a pregnancy by ultrasound as early as 5 days after the first missed period. Viability scan Our experienced consultants can confirm the viability of a baby’s heart beat between 6-11 weeks. This scan is sometimes referred to as a ‘dating scan’. Down’s screen scan We can arrange for Down’s syndrome screen between 12-14 weeks using a Nuchal Translucency scan. Down’s screen scan is now offered to all pregnant women between 12-14 weeks. It involves measurement of the skin fold behind the neck (Nuchal fold) and a blood test combined with mother’s age. It allows estimation... --- WE'RE HERE TO HELP Having trouble conceiving? If you are having problems conceiving, then you certainly aren’t alone because as many as one in six couples in the UK are unable to conceive naturally. It takes around nine months for a couple to achieve a pregnancy. If you have been trying to get pregnant for 12 months unsuccessfully, it's time to speak to a specialist. Whether you're trying for your first baby or are adding to your family, we are experienced at identifying the cause of infertility and helping couples achieve their dream of expanding their family. Speak to an expert WHY US? Experienced consultants At the Gynae Centre we have the experience, the technology and the expertise to identify fertility problems and provide appropriate infertility treatment to assist you to conceive. You're in safe hands The infertility treatments, such as IVF / ICSI, are performed in association with our partner clinic, The Fertility & Gynaecology Academy. KNOWLEDGE Common causes of infertility https://www. youtube. com/embed/cPjyDIZsAMI? si=gQHjApbpZflh72DrFor couples having unprotected intercourse, conception is restricted to a short period of two days before and after ovulation. Ovulation in a woman happens on day 14 in a 28 day cycle but may vary if the cycle is irregular. There can be several causes of subfertility:Ovulation disorderProblems with follicle growthAge and ovarian reservesTubal obstructionUterine (womb) factorsImmune factorsMale factor (due to low sperm count or low motility)Some women may require a hysteroscopy procedure to investigate or treat some fertility issues, particularly if accompanied by abnormal... --- TRUSTED EXPERTS Don't suffer in silence Vaginal discharge can be a distressing problem not only because of the discomfort it causes but also for the simple fact that it is connected with our most intimate parts. Most women generally make an assumption that they have a thrush infection and will buy over the counter medication. In most cases this is good practice and will help to relieve the symptoms. If in any doubt, it is always best to have a thorough examination to establish an accurate diagnosis. Speak to an expert WHY US? Experienced consultants You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist in our state of the art clinic. Same day appointments Where possible we will endeavour to book you in on the same day at a time convenient for you. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about vaginal pain and discharge What causes vaginal discharge? It’s important to remember that thrush, yeast or candida infection is not the only reason for vaginal discharge, discomfort, abnormal smell or irritation. Other causes may be bacterial vaginosis, gonorrhea or herpes infection or dermatitis. Vaginal discharge: What’s normal and when should I be concerned? Our caring and experienced consultant gynaecologists will be able to uncover the underlying reason(s) for your symptoms and provide you with fast, effective treatment. What is vulvodynia? Vulvodynia is term given to a pain in the vulval area, mostly around the entrance of the vagina. It is often described as a constant burning sensation and is associated with... --- MENOPAUSE HEALTH Peace of mind during menopause Menopause symptoms can interfere with daily life, work, and even relationships. It’s time to change that. If you are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, it is our goal to help you take control of your health and wellbeing. We look after your gynaecological health during perimenopause, menopause and beyond. With the help of our experienced hormone specialists, you can experience a happy, healthy menopause. Book online now MENOPAUSE SERVICES Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) & implants We believe that no woman going through the menopause should suffer the distress of hot flushes (or hot flashes), night sweats and vaginal dryness without at least discussing the pros and cons of hormone replacement and its alternatives. We offer hormone implants with Mirena coil; the recognised approach for avoiding exposure to systemic progesterone and its alleged connection with breast cancer. Book consultation Decreased libido It's common for women to experience a decrease in libido after menopause, in particular after surgical removal of the ovaries. At The Gynae Centre, our consultants will advise you of possible treatments, including the use of testosterone patches or testosterone implants. Ovarian cancer screening At the Gynae Centre we also offer screening for ovarian cancer. This is done using transvaginal ultrasound combined with CA125 and HE4, which is a new marker for ovarian cancer. KNOWLEDGE What age does menopause occur? The average age for onset of menopause (when periods have stopped for a period of 12 months) in women is around 50... --- 100% CONFIDENTIAL Medical abortion using surgical procedure If you are considering terminating your pregnancy, it is of paramount importance that you receive the safest care possible from experienced and compassionate experts. The right to choose is yours, and here at The Gynae Centre we aim to provide you with the best available options when it comes to pregnancy termination. Book online now WHY US? Same day appointments Where possible we will endeavour to book you in on the same day. Consultant-led service You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist, not a nurse. Fixed fees & no hidden costs At The Gynae Centre, abortion using MVA is provided as a comprehensive package, from consultation to recovery — ensuring you feel comfortable, informed and supported throughout your journey. State of the art facilities Equipped with state of the art facilities, The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK, and home to renowned gynaecology expert – Dr Alex Eskander. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about surgical termination of pregnancy/removal of retained placental tissue Here we explain everything you need to know about pregnancy termination surgery (surgical abortion). https://www. youtube. com/embed/AEikruFyqfA What is manual vacuum aspiration (MVA)? Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) is a gentle, early abortion option which is available between 6 — 15 weeks of pregnancy. It is one of the least invasive procedures available, done with a mini handheld vacuum, creating gentle suction. With this procedure, you have the option to be under... --- YOU'RE IN SAFE HANDS Peace of mind at a difficult time If you are pregnant and considering terminating your pregnancy, it’s really important that you receive the best possible care from experts in Very Early Medical Abortion (VEMA). The Gynae Centre is an abortion clinic in London. We are leaders in Very Early Medical Abortions (VEMA) since 2016. We pride ourselves on offering a safe and relaxing environment, and VEMAs with some of the UK’s most experienced gynaecologists. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about very early medical abortion (VEMA) Here we explain everything you need to know about very early medical abortion. https://www. youtube. com/embed/4eLTN5-c9g8 What is a Very Early Medical Abortion (VEMA)? Very Early Medical Abortion (VEMA) is a relatively new development in pregnancy terminations, and allows women to have an abortion as early as 1 day after the missed period or as soon as a pregnancy test shows as positive and is confirmed in the clinic. How soon can I have Very Early Medical Abortion (VEMA)? Very Early Medical Abortion (VEMA) can be carried out as early as 1 day after the missed period and as soon as a pregnancy test becomes positive. Until recently doctors were anxious not to terminate a pregnancy before a sac was clearly seen by ultrasound for fear that the pregnancy may be located outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy). However recent studies showed that the incidence of ectopic pregnancy (where the foetus is located outside the uterus) was found to be very... --- SUPPORTIVE & CONFIDENTIAL Looking for a private abortion clinic in London? If you are pregnant and considering a termination, it is imperative that you seek the best help available. It is important to remember that the choice as to how to proceed is ultimately yours. The decision to terminate a pregnancy can arise for a number of reasons, and no two situations are the same. The most common reason for women seeking abortion is anxiety and depression as a result of unplanned pregnancy and for foetal abnormality detected after 12 weeks of pregnancy. Whatever the circumstances, abortion can be a challenging experience. We are leaders in abortion care and have more than 30 years’ experience. We do everything we can to make the process pass as smoothly as can be expected. Book online now WHY US? Same day appointments Where possible we will endeavour to book you in on the same day. Consultant-led service The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK. It is home to one of the country’s leading gynaecology experts – Dr Alex Eskander. The clinic is equipped with state of the art facilities, premier nurses and support staff. 96% success rate We are proud to have a success rate of up to 96% for medical abortion. Decades of experience in gynaecology care allows us to not only provide the highest quality health care, but the best support and understanding through this difficult time. From consultation to recovery Medical Abortion... --- TRANSPARENT & COMPETITIVE For total peace of mind it is worth paying for a level of gynaecology care that simply isn’t available from the NHS. Flexible appointment times, an exemplary standard of friendly, professional service and a superb environment for consultations, surgery and recovery – all combine to make the care provided by the Gynae Centre second to none. Our prices are listed below. The overall cost of treatment is dependent on your individual case. The fee is always fully explained and detailed prior to the start of any treatment. Appointment timings Whilst we aim to see all our patients in a timely manner, due to the nature of medical consultations delays of up to 30 minutes (sometimes more) can sometimes be experienced. We appreciate your understanding in this regard. Surgical abortions For all surgical abortions please book the Consultation + Ultrasound package. We will examine you and assess your needs. The surgery will then be booked as soon as possible, depending on availability. The cost of this will be deducted from the overall cost of your surgery. Please note that surgical abortion above 12 weeks requires 48 hours preparation. Surgical procedures For all surgical procedures (except abortions), please book a Consultation with Dr Eskander for an examination and assessment of your needs. Consultations Well Woman Checks Gynaecology Scans Abnormal Smear & Colposcopy Fertility Pregnancy Scans By Consultant Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) for Downs screen Sexual Health Family Planning Termination Of Pregnancy Gynaecological Surgery Vaginismus & Hymenectomy Consultations Private consultation... --- PRIVATE CLINIC You're in safe hands The combination of advanced medical facilities and friendly, professional staff means any visit to The Gynae Centre will be a positive and fulfilling one. Our passion is to provide you with excellence and reassurance across our full range of services. We strive to be the best gynaecology care clinic for women in London. Book online now WHY US? Personalised care We recognise that every woman is unique. So no matter what your circumstances or stage of life, our physicians and practitioners will provide comprehensive and compassionate care personalised to your individual needs. Consultant-led service The Gynae Centre is one of the foremost centres for gynaecology care in the UK. It is home to one of the country’s leading gynaecology experts. The clinic is equipped with state of the art facilities, premier nurses and support staff. State of the art technology We employ technology that is second to none, such as the latest ultrasound scanning equipment. All our clinical staff are professionally registered and undertake regular updates to ensure you always receive the utmost care and medical attention. Convenient appointments Wherever possible, we will try to book you in on the same day for your appointment. Depending on the service you require, consultations can be carried out over the telephone. KNOWLEDGE Find out what your experience at the clinic will be like health https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=jVhs0Hz7gbs&t=1shttps://www. youtube. com/watch? v=R5RlWKbgkn8https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=GM0RVPW4Jq0 --- Privacy Policy The Gynae Centre wants you to feel confident about the privacy and security of your personal information. This privacy policy explains how The Gynae Centre uses any personal information we collect about you and your rights in relation to that information. When we refer to ‘personal information’ in this policy, we mean information which identifies you as an individual, or is capable of doing so. This privacy policy should be read in conjunction with The Gynae Centre website terms and conditions and Cookies Policy. We use Google Ads for advertising. When you visit the website we utilise your personal data to deliver personalised and non-personalised ads. Please refer to Google’s Privacy & Terms site for more details. This privacy policy was last updated on 18/10/2022. Our contact details Name: The Gynae CentreAddress: 23 Milford House, 7 Queen Anne St. Phone number: 020 7580 8090E-mail: ask@gynae-centre. co. uk The type of personal information we collect We currently collect and process the following information:Personal details like: Name, DOB, address, email address, phone numbers. Medical records of your consultations at the at The Gynae Centre. Documents: Scans of ultrasounds, laboratory results, any other investigations. Communications letters: To you, from your GP or any other health organisation. Accounts statements and invoices. How we get the personal information and why we have it Most of the personal information we process is provided to us directly by you for one of the following reasons:In order that we can identify you and you medical history... --- DISCREET & CONFIDENTIAL Abortion pills by post Due to recent changes in the law, we are now able to offer medical abortion pills by post for remote medical abortion in the comfort of your own home. Suitable for termination of pregnancies up to 10 weeks, you’ll be seen by one of our experienced and sympathetic consultants via phone consultation and your medication will be sent to you in the post for your convenience. Book online now WHY US? Same day appointments Where possible we will endeavour to book you in on the same day. Consultant-led service You’ll be seen by an experienced consultant gynaecologist, not a nurse. £449 Fixed fee & no hidden costs Includes your consultation and medication charges. Telephone consultations Wherever you live, however busy you are, you can get abortion pills via a telephone consultation at your convenience, no need to visit the clinic. KNOWLEDGE Everything you need to know about abortion pills by post No doubt you have questions. Here we explain everything you need to know about medical abortion. https://www. youtube. com/embed/NuRfgPw122M Success and failure of medical abortion The failure rate of medical abortion is small – just 3% of cases, but it’s still very important to check that you are not pregnant after the miscarriage. What happens during my consultation? For your telephone consultation, you will be connected to one of our experienced consultants via telephone. Our consultants are always neutral and empathetic to your requests and will support you with your decision whenever... --- Are you looking for a private gynaecologist in London? Confidential & discreet Honest & transparent Video & telephone appointments Book online Trustpilot WHO WE ARE Private abortion clinic in London You're in safe hands Leaders in abortion care 30 years' experience Caring and empathetic No waiting list Experienced consultants Aftercare & support Are you looking for a private abortion clinic in London? If you are considering terminating your pregnancy, it is of paramount importance that you receive the safest care possible from experienced and compassionate experts. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, The Gynae Centre is an approved clinic for the termination of pregnancy - both by abortion pill and by surgery. We are also now providing medical abortion pills by post for patients across the UK (except Scotland and Northern Ireland). Our aftercare services are second to none, ensuring the abortion procedure is completed successfully and that recovery is swift. It is our goal to keep patients feeling comfortable and informed throughout this sensitive time. We are always available to answer any questions you might have.   Professional high quality gynaecology care for women of all ages Consultations with an experienced and compassionate private gynaecologist Appointments and treatment at your convenience Expert advice on all aspects of pregnancy and fertility PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE We accept the following insurance companies We accept the following insurance companies Unrivalled standards of care Do you need a private gynaecologist in London? Established since 1999, The Gynae Centre is a leading private gynaecological care clinic in Central... --- WE're here for you Here at The Gynae Centre, our patients are our priority. We are always available to take your call, 7 days a week. Opening hours Mon. - Fri. 9:00 - 18:00Same day appointments are now available on weekdays. Saturday and Sunday appointments by special arrangement only. Extra charges apply and depends on staff availability. Emergency services available. ask@gynae-centre. co. uk GET IN TOUCH Find us Suite 23Milford House7 Queen Anne StreetLondon W1G 9HN Find us on Google Maps Getting in touch 020 7580 8090 nurses@gynae-centre. co. uk During normal office hours we can be reached on the number above. If this number is busy or there is no reply, you can call us on 07900 684 500 or 07488 356 838 for booking appointments. In case of medical emergency (e. g. heavy bleeding or possible ectopic pregnancy) please attend A&E or call an ambulance. For any medical questions, contact the doctor on the number provided on the consultation notes. Social media @gynaecentre @thegynaecentre GETTING HERE By rail The nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus on the Bakerloo, Central and Victoria lines, and Bond Street on the Central and Jubilee lines. We are also walking distance from Great Portland Street underground station on the Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. By car The clinic is located inside the congestion zone. We recommend parking at Outer Circle Regent’s Park as this is outside the congestion zone. It is more affordable to park and you are more likely to... --- --- ## Posts Abnormal vaginal bleeding refers to any unexpected or irregular bleeding from the vagina. It is sometimes confused with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB), though this refers to abnormal bleeding specifically from the uterus. Understandably, any bleeding that is not normal for you might cause you to worry – but it doesn’t necessarily mean that something is seriously wrong. Abnormal bleeding has a number of causes including those that relate to hormones and hormonal contraception, non-cancerous growths such as fibroids, or vaginal dryness. Abnormal bleeding is a common symptom, affecting up to one third of women in their lifetime. It can happen at any age, though bleeding before the age of 10 is rare and should be investigated. It can also affect people from any ethnic background. As Mr Alex Steshenko, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains, “A typical menstrual cycle lasts for 28 days, but there is a lot of variation from woman to woman. This means that abnormal bleeding could simply be the result of an irregular cycle, or it could point to a medical condition, and it can be hard to distinguish between the two without the appropriate investigations. The bottom line is, if the bleeding is not typical for you, then you should seek advice from a gynaecologist. It’s likely that it’s nothing serious, but a consultation can confirm that, and bring you peace of mind. ” Abnormal bleeding and the menstrual cycle Abnormal bleeding is often linked to irregularities in the menstrual cycle. While a typical... --- The pelvic floor (sometimes known as the pelvic diaphragm) is a structure of muscles, ligaments and fascia, which play a part in supporting your pelvic organs (like your bladder and uterus), sexual function, and continence. In this article, we will explore sex and your pelvic floor, including vaginismus, a condition where the pelvic floor muscles involuntarily tighten, making intercourse challenging or impossible. Both women and men have a pelvic floor. However, the female pelvic floor is more widely discussed, largely because women’s health is often tied to pelvic issues - from pregnancy and childbirth to menopause. It’s also a common topic in conversations around sex, where the responsibility often falls on women to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles with certain exercises in order to make sex feel more enjoyable for both partners. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains: “While this emphasis on female responsibility can feel one-sided, the general advice to strengthen and care for the pelvic floor is well founded. A healthy pelvic floor can reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence, and plays a key role in core strength and stability. ” That said, there is some uncertainty about how effective Pelvic Floor Exercises (PFE) really are when not monitored by a doctor, and a limited understanding of how other factors like hormones, vaginal childbirth and age can impact this complex area of the body. Sex and your pelvic floor: The role of the pelvic floor The pelvic floor muscles act as... --- If you have just found out that you’re pregnant, but don’t want to be, you may be experiencing feelings of panic, fear or confusion. Some women may even feel shame, particularly those in certain cultures where abortion is seen as a taboo subject. However, it’s important to know that you are not alone – 21 in every 1000 women in England and Wales will undergo an abortion before the age of 45 – and there are many resources that can support you in whatever path you choose to take. By educating yourself on the options available to treat an unwanted pregnancy, you can make the right decision for you. Dr C. Grainger, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says, “Having an abortion may not be an easy decision to make when you are faced with an unwanted pregnancy; however, clearing up any uncertainty around abortion options can help you make a decision confidently. We can assure you that both medical and surgical abortions are generally safe procedures, and despite misconceptions, there are no long-term health risks linked to abortion and it is not associated with future infertility, ectopic pregnancy or birth defects. We can provide advanced ultrasound screening to confirm that the procedure was successful. ” At The Gynae Centre, we have a success rate of up to 96% for medical abortion. Other options include abortion pills by post, as well as surgical abortions. If you’re not sure about the differences between these terms, don’t worry – we... --- Have you experienced unexplained vaginal bleeding, also referred to as irregular bleeding or ‘spotting’? It’s often nothing to be concerned about. However, you should always take note of changes in your cycle, and flag with your doctor or gynaecologist any vaginal bleeding that’s unusual for you, as there is a small chance that it can indicate a problem. When it comes to irregular and unexplained vaginal bleeding, there are a number of investigations that we can carry out. One of these is a hysteroscopy. Unless you have been examined for irregular bleeding before, you may not be familiar with this term, but there’s no need to be worried – a hysteroscopy is a routine procedure with very little risk, and minor discomfort. In this post, we will go into more detail about what a hysteroscopy involves, when you might need one, how you can prepare for it, and what happens after the procedure. What is a hysteroscopy, and do I need one? A hysteroscopy is an investigation carried out using a hysteroscope: a fine, tube-like device connected to a camera. It is passed through the vagina and the entrance to your womb (cervix), without having to perform invasive surgery (making incisions in the skin). Most women with a womb can undergo a hysteroscopy, with an exception for those who are pregnant. Dr Mokoonlall, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says: “Hysteroscopy allows us to look inside the womb (uterus) to diagnose, and often treat, the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.... --- In an ideal world, every individual would receive the same quality of healthcare. In reality, that’s not always the case - even in the UK. Here, we have a significant “women’s health gap” (also called the “gender health gap”). This refers to the gap between the level of care received by female and male patients, and it shows that women do not always receive fair access or achieve the same health outcomes as men. The UK women’s health gap is the largest in the G20 (the group of countries with the strongest economies) and the twelfth largest globally. This points to historical inadequacies such as underrepresentation of women in medical research and barriers in women’s education, which has led to modern biases, continued underrepresentation, and underfunding. Dr. Bhushan Mokoonlall, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains, “It will take many years for the women’s health gap in the UK to close, even if sustainable changes are implemented. However, we can see that it is slowly improving, with recent changes to legislation such as the abortion pills by post scheme becoming permanent, and virginity testing being made illegal. “There are also things that you can do as an individual to ensure that you get the help you need, such as conducting your own research into preventative measures, attending regular health checkups and routine investigations such as smear tests, and seeking specialist help in areas where public health services lack, such as gynaecology. ” In this article, we explore the history behind... --- Sex is meant to be a pleasurable and intimate experience, but for some people, it can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you have been Googling, “Why does it hurt when I have sex? ”, you are not alone; around 7. 5% of sexually active British women have reported painful intercourse for three or more months in the past year. Though painful sex (also known as dyspareunia) should not be considered normal, it does not necessarily mean that there is a serious problem. There are many reasons why sex can hurt, including vaginal dryness, vaginismus, and other issues that we will explore in this article. Mr A. Steshenko, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says, “While painful intercourse can be distressing, it's important to remember that it’s not something you have to endure in silence. The cause of the pain is unlikely to be serious, though seeking medical help can put your mind at ease. A gynaecologist can help identify the root cause and provide tailored treatments to improve your comfort and quality of life, and regain confidence in your intimate relationships. ”Unfortunately, painful sex is a taboo topic in many circles, and we understand how the thought of consulting your GP with your symptoms can feel a little awkward or embarrassing. However, at The Gynae Centre, we are specialists in gynaecological healthcare, which means that there’s nothing you can tell us that we haven’t already heard. We are compassionate, discreet, and have years of experience in effectively treating or... --- As we progress through life, we often become more acutely aware of changes in our body, and are more likely to look out for early signs of health complications. Unfortunately though, there are many medical conditions, like cervical cancer, that have very few early symptoms until late stages, and that we need professional help to monitor. Thanks to recent developments in medical science, and the wider availability of screenings, such as smear tests, it’s now easier for people to get a better understanding of their gynaecological health. So why do I need a smear test? It’s a good way for people to keep a close eye on any abnormalities, and in many cases, prevent cervical cancer from developing. In this article, we’re going to help you get a better understanding of what cervical cancer is, how it’s diagnosed, and why regular smear tests are so important. What is cervical cancer? Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses amongst women in the UK, with over 3,200 new cases each year. The cervix is the lower part of the womb (uterus) that joins to the top of the vagina. It is sometimes called the neck of the womb. Cervical cancer develops slowly over time from abnormal cell changes in the cervix. These changes do not cause any symptoms, but can be easily detected using cervical screening tests. If abnormal cells are discovered early enough, then it’s possible to treat the cells before they become cancerous. What causes cervical cancer?... --- Could that itch be a sign of infection? Possibly! A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis or vaginal thrush, is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida. It’s a common, but rather uncomfortable, condition that causes pain, irritation, and intense itchiness. Here’s everything you need to know about yeast infections. What are the main causes of yeast infections? Your vagina normally has a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. This is because the good bacteria known as lactobacilli kills off the Candida - helping to keep everything in check. If the balance between bacteria and yeast changes, this can sometimes cause a yeast infection. Most of the time, these imbalances are caused by something completely unrelated. For example, you can sometimes get a yeast infection when: Your skin is irritated or damaged You're taking antibiotics You’re struggling with diabetes You have a weakened immune system You're having hormone replacement therapy (HRT) You're pregnant Other times, the imbalances are caused by changes to your daily routine. For example, you might be more likely to get one if: You’re eating too much sugar You're using pantyliners You’re not changing tampons regularly You’re wearing tight underwear You're using scented feminine hygiene products What are the main symptoms of a yeast infection? Vaginal yeast infections can be quite painful. Some of the most common symptoms are intense irritation, itchiness, and soreness. Other symptoms could include: Redness and inflammation: You might start to notice redness, swelling, and inflammation. Your skin might... --- Let’s talk about sexual health and menopause. If you suspect you may be in perimenopause (the years transitioning to menopause), or even if you’re technically through the menopause (you’ve had no period for a year or longer), you likely have questions about vaginal health. Every woman of a certain age will have heard scary stories about menopause and sexual health so it’s common to have questions like: Is my sex life over? Does everyone get dry during menopause? Here at The Gynae Centre, as experts in working with women through this time, we know that menopause can feel scary. But the good news is that with the right management, you don’t have to forego a happy and healthy sex life. Read on and we break down sexual health and menopause. Sexual health and menopause: what you should know Keep in mind that women do not experience sexual health and menopause uniformly and this is why individually tailored medical advice and support is so valuable. But it is helpful to learn general information on common sexual health and menopause issues that may arise – and what you can do about them. Such as: Contraception Pregnancy is still a possibility through perimenopause so if you’re having sex, use contraception You might be more vulnerable to STIs during perimenopause and beyond – due to vaginal dryness and the walls of the vagina becoming thinner. So if you or your partner have not been tested for STIs recently, opt for condoms with plenty of... --- How often have you seen your doctor over the past five years? According to research, 20% of people in the UK have not visited their GP in over a year. While that may seem like a good thing, as many people only tend to see their doctor when ill, it could also prevent early detection of medical conditions, which could then lead to more serious problems later in life. This is where well woman checks and smear tests are effective. Are smear tests really important? All women should have a smear test (also called cervical screening) every three years to check for the presence of abnormal cells on the cervix. Abnormal cells may have the potential to become cancerous but they can also help identify other infections. Having abnormal cells does NOT mean that you have cancer. Attending regular smear tests means that any changes to cells can be detected early so that preventative treatment can be provided, before it ever has the chance to develop into anything more sinister. Is it worth getting a well woman check? This is a question that we often hear from both new and prospective patients, including and especially those who do not have any specific health concerns, but who want to keep on top of their health and stay ahead of any concerns that may arise in future. A well woman check allows you to do just that. As a regular health screen, well woman checks are designed to provide you with a... --- 1st September marks the start of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, and so what better time to raise awareness of this condition to help break down barriers. Here, we ask, do you have PCOS symptoms? And we explore when is the right time to speak with a gynaecologist. According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of childbearing age. Despite PCOS being one of the most common hormonal disturbances affecting women, surprisingly little is known about it – both in the medical field and in the wider population. UK PCOS charity Verity suggests that polycystic ovaries affect one in five women (that's 20% of women in the UK! ), and that polycystic ovary syndrome affects one in ten women – that's millions of people in the UK alone. Unfortunately, the actual number may be far greater. with the World Health Organization suggesting that up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed worldwide. There is no doubt that there hasn’t been enough focus on this condition which can have life changing effects for women all over the world. PCOS does not discriminate, affecting young and even those into menopause. It affects quite a few well-known stars including Glee star, Lea Michelle, Emma Thompson, and Victoria Beckham who has struggled with infertility and PCOS for many years. One of the most significant impacts of this condition is that it can have a huge impact on self-esteem as it... --- Are you preparing for a medical abortion or supporting a loved one who will be taking the abortion pill? Looking for advice on maintaining your wellbeing during a medical abortion? Even when you’re sure you’re not ready to be a mother yet, you may be feeling anxious and apprehensive about the abortion process. Thankfully, abortion is a very safe procedure with few associated side effects and risks. There is no evidence to suggest that an uncomplicated abortion is harmful to a woman’s health or future fertility in any way. In fact as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists assert, as long as it is carried out in line with best practice, an abortion (whether surgical or via medical abortion pills) is statistically safer than carrying on through pregnancy and giving birth. Abortion pills are the treatment of choice for early pregnancy terminations in the UK. Many women prefer them because they are not invasive and don’t call for anaesthetic. What’s more, if you’re unable to get to a clinic in person, recent changes in the law allow you to access abortion pills by post. However, as straightforward and safe as abortion generally is, it is important to take care of your welfare through the process and ensure you have proper medical supervision. If you’re not ready to be a mother yet and will be accessing the abortion pill, or if you want to know how to look after a loved one during the process, read on and we explain... --- It’s supposed to be one of life’s greatest joys, and yet if your partner has vaginismus, sex might have become something to dread. If you have attempted intercourse, you may be alarmed at the pain she experiences, and upset at the thought of intimacy being the cause. But however bad you feel, your partner will be feeling a lot worse. For women with vaginismus, the condition is frequently a source of shame. Denied something so normal and natural, many women with vaginismus don’t even know its name. They may have come to believe that sex is supposed to be painful, or that they simply must live a life without intimacy. Thankfully this is not the case. Here at The Gynae Centre, after years spent delivering successful vaginismus treatment, we know very well the struggles couples face. Partners with vaginismus want to know: How can I support the woman I love? What are the dos and don’ts? Is there a vaginismus cure? Read on and we explain. What is vaginismus? Vaginismus symptomsVaginismus is persistent involuntary contractions of the muscles in the vagina side walls, in response to attempted penetration. This makes sexual intercourse, insertion of tampons or cervical smear tests excruciating and often even impossible. Women with vaginismus frequently describe a sincere desire to have sex that is met with the burning, stinging pain of hitting a ‘brick wall’ when penetration is attempted. Many women with vaginismus can absolutely become aroused and enjoy other types of sexual contact without penetration. Vaginismus... --- June is home to Cervical Screening Awareness week and it’s a time to talk about life-saving testing and treatment that people often feel embarrassed to discuss. Around 1 in 20 women will receive an abnormal smear test result. And if you’ve been told you may need loop excision, it’s normal to feel worried – but the process is very routine and has excellent success rates. Let’s break it down. So what is the vaginal microbiome, why does it matter, and how can you best look after it? Let’s break it down. What is loop excision? Your regular cervical ‘smear’ test may discover abnormal cells in your cervix. These cells may be pre-cancerous or cancer in its very early stage. If this is the case, doctors most often employ a procedure called loop excision – also referred to as large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) or loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP). A loop excision procedure serves to eliminate abnormal cells in the cervix, diagnose cervical cancer if it is present, and treat early-stage cervical cancer. Loop excision is successful in more than 90% of cases. Loop excision is a procedure in which a thin wire loop is employed to remove the abnormal cervical cells. This wire loop is heated by an electrical current so that it can both remove the cells and cauterise the wound at the same time. Why do I need a loop excision? Should I be worried if I need a LEEP? You will have been... --- Did you know that STI rates in England are skyrocketing? Recent reports confirm that cases of STIs are on the rise and sexual health services are struggling to cope with higher than ever demand for STI checks. For example: From 2013 to 2022, requests for sexual health appointments have rocketed by a third Gonorrhoea has increased in 97% of councils. And 10 councils have reported cases of gonorrhoea tripling Cases of syphilis have risen by 76% Chlamydia, which has been the UK’s most frequently diagnosed STI for years, has risen by 36% Diagnoses of STIs in 2022 were up 23. 8% from the year before Why are STIs on the rise? Dr Grainger, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “There are all kinds of possible reasons for surging rates of STIs in England. We know that many people still enjoy casual sex and at the same time, there is evidence that people are using condoms less. STIs have increased significantly among the over 65s too, who may be more liable to mistakenly view themselves as sexually low-risk because of the unlikelihood of pregnancy. In addition we know public health resources are strapped right now, and there is a need for more sexual health messaging. ” Would you know if you had an STI? Here are some STI symptoms to look out for Every STI is different, but the symptoms of distinct STIs often overlap. Be aware though – many people who contract the most common STIs like... --- You’ve heard of the gut microbiome, but did you know your vagina has one too? Vaginal bacteria are enjoying something of a media moment lately, with viral videos touting products to nurture it and advice online on how to optimise the vaginal microbiome. But unfortunately, some of what we’re seeing is more fad than fact-based. So what is the vaginal microbiome, why does it matter, and how can you best look after it? Let’s break it down. The vaginal microbiome: what is it? The vaginal microbiome (also known as vaginal flora or vaginal microbiota) encompasses all the microbes in and around the vagina – which means bacteria, any viruses, fungi and various single-cell organisms. It is its own microecosystem. The wellbeing of the vaginal microbiome depends upon the right balance of these microbes. A vaginal microbiome in good health should be made up mostly of a bacteria called lactobacilli, in particular a type named lactobacillus crispatus – these bacteria act as first line defence against infections. They work to keep your vaginal pH low (normally between 3. 8 and 4. 5 pH) and make an unhospitable environment for microbes that could upset the delicate balance of the microbiota (leading to infections like thrush and bacterial vaginosis or ‘BV’). Infections happen when this fine balance of bacteria in the vagina is knocked out of whack – vaginal dysbiosis. What causes dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiome? The main offenders that upset the vaginal microbiome may be surprising, because they are often things... --- It’s supposed to be fun but every time you try to have sex, it hurts. Perhaps you’re feeling a ‘brick wall’ sensation that makes penetration impossible. So why does it sting when I have sex? If you’ve been experiencing pain during sex for a while, you’re probably feeling increasingly disheartened. And to top it off, for many women stinging during sex gets worse over time. There are a number of possible causes for pain during sex but there’s a key one you might never have heard of: vaginismus. Here we break down the possible causes of stinging during sex, what you can do about it, and vaginismus treatment. Is it normal to experience pain during sex? Simply, no. Sex should be comfortable and enjoyable. Sadly, many women who experience stinging during sex have simply accepted it or resigned themselves to a life without intimacy. But the truth is you don’t have to suffer. If you are experiencing pain during sex, it means there is a problem. But the good news is that the problem will have a solution! Why does it sting when I have sex? Possible causes. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – Is it possible you could have an STI? Many STIs can cause pain during sex, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea and herpes. If there’s a possibility, you should seek sexual health screening. Insufficient arousal perhaps because of not enough foreplay, which makes for vaginal dryness, which in turn creates fiction and stinging upon penetration. Vulvodynia – A condition you’ve... --- Are you facing an unplanned pregnancy and don’t feel ready to be a mother? Everyone’s circumstances are different but the decision to end a pregnancy is yours alone and almost never taken lightly. If you are considering a pregnancy termination, you will need to know about abortion in the UK, what your options are and how best to decide what to do. For first trimester terminations there are a number of options. Read on and we’ll guide you through them. First trimester abortion in the UK: surgical or medical pregnancy terminationIn the first trimester, abortion in the UK can be performed in two main ways:Surgical abortion – This procedure can be performed with local anaesthesia or under sedation. The pregnancy is terminated with the aid of a suction device placed through the cervix into the womb entrance. The gentlest way to do this is via Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA) as we do here at The Gynae Centre. MVA can be performed between 6-15 weeks. Another method is Machine Aspiration (MA), which is employed in many hospitals – it uses stronger vacuum pressure, leading to greater discomfort. Medical abortion – This is when a pregnancy is ended via hormone medicines. There are two pills taken at different times, which induce miscarriage. The first medicine (named mifepristone) obstructs the vital pregnancy hormone progesterone. This prevents the pregnancy from developing and causes it to come away from the uterus’ wall. The second pill (misoprostol) prompts contractions of the uterus, which expel the pregnancy... --- Are you experiencing vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you? Many women will experience some irregular bleeding (or ‘spotting’) at some point in their lives and it’s often nothing to worry about. But it should never be ignored because it could signal a problem. Here at The Gynae Centre, lots of women come to see us with irregular bleeding and with the right skills and sophisticated diagnostic equipment, we are able to get to the root of any issue swiftly. So what does abnormal bleeding mean? Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “There are many difficult things abnormal bleeding could signal, from stress, to hormonal changes or unfortunately in some cases, something malignant. It may well be nothing to worry about, but the only way to be sure is to get checked out. ”What abnormal bleeding means tends to depend on the other symptoms that accompany it. Here we’ve included a symptom chart checklist to give an idea of some of the issues that certain collections of symptoms may indicate. This is to help encourage women to get checked out. You may have some or all of the symptoms for a given condition, but only a doctor can interpret your symptoms and examine you to provide a diagnosis. So take a look at the chart below and then make an appointment with a doctor – never self-diagnose. Click to expandWhat does abnormal bleeding mean? Glossary of terms in the chart We realise some of the terms... --- You know it’s not your time of the month and yet you notice blood... While it may well be nothing to worry about, spotting between periods could signal a problem. What could it mean? Let’s break it down. What are the possible reasons for spotting between periods? What is spotting between periods? Spotting is light bleeding that occurs outside of your monthly period. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “There are all sorts of possible reasons for spotting between periods and many of them are harmless. However, the only way to know is to get checked out – so don’t ‘self-doctor’ or put things off. Go straight to your GP or gynaecologist. ” Possible reasons for spotting between periods include: Stress: It sounds like a cliché but it’s true. Stress can impact your hormones and menstrual cycle in all sorts of ways because stress triggers the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response, stimulating the release of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol can repress reproductive hormones and disrupt a woman’s menstrual cycle. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): Some STIs can cause spotting between periods – especially chlamydia, the most common STI in the UK and gonorrhoea, another common STI. Both these infections can lead to fertility problems if left untreated, so if you’ve had unprotected sex or think there’s a chance you could be at risk, you should get tested. The Gynae Centre offers swift, no stone unturned sexual health screening without waiting lists. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is... --- If you have made the difficult decision to end a pregnancy, ensuring you have access to the best medical care is essential. Termination can be emotionally draining enough, without having to worry about care. For pregnancies of up to 10 weeks, medical abortion is frequently the treatment of choice for both patients and doctors in the UK. Indeed in 2021 87% of all terminations in England and Wales were medical abortions. If you are considering it, you may be wondering: What is the success rate of medical abortion? How does the process work? Let’s break it down. What is medical abortion? Medical abortion terminates a pregnancy through hormone-based medications which prompt the reproductive system to miscarry. It is a process very similar to an early spontaneous miscarriage – with the crucial difference being that you can prepare a nurturing environment at home for medical abortion. You take two pills at two distinct times. The first pill (named mifepristone) obstructs the vital pregnancy hormone progesterone, which stops the pregnancy from developing and causes it to break away from the womb’s wall. The second pill (misoprostol) prompts the womb to contract, which induces natural miscarriage without the need for surgery. Since the success rate of medical abortion is very good, and the procedure is non-invasive, women frequently choose medical abortion over surgical abortion. Traditionally medical abortion is conducted at a clinic, with in-person consultation to screen you and administer the tablets. But recent changes to UK legislation have enabled women to opt... --- Did you know that the majority of women will have uterine fibroids at some point in their life? Fibroids are often asymptomatic, but can cause a lot of pain, inconvenience, and in rare instances lead to infertility. But what are uterine fibroids, what symptoms of fibroids should you look out for, and what can be done about them? Let’s break it down. What are uterine fibroids? Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours that grow in or around the womb. They consist of dense connective tissue and muscle. They are sometimes referred to as leiomyomas or uterine myomas. The size of uterine fibroids can vary a lot – they may be the size of a pea but they can also grow to melon size. Symptoms of fibroidsMost women with uterine fibroids have no symptoms and are unaware until they have a pelvic scan, or until they are having difficulty getting pregnant. However, we do see patients with the following symptoms:Painful or heavy periodsPain in your lower backNeeding to urinate frequentlyAbdominal painPain or discomfort during sexual intercourseConstipationWhat causes uterine fibroids? Science doesn’t have a definitive answer to the question of what causes uterine fibroids, but in addition to genetics, hormones and in particular oestrogen are thought to play a key role. Types of fibroidsFibroids can develop anywhere in the uterus and can differ widely in size. Some uterine fibroids will be pea-sized, and others can grow to the size of a melon. The main uterine fibroid classifications are:Intramural fibroids – the most frequently... --- If you’re sexually active, you may be wondering: how often should I get tested for STDs? Sexual health is important. In 2022 there were 392,453 diagnoses of STIs in England alone – up 23. 8% on the previous year. There is also evidence that condom use is in decline. Doctors in sexual health clinics are often asked: how often should I get tested for STDs? The answer depends on a number of lifestyle factors. To learn more about STI symptoms and testing, read on. STI or STD – what’s the difference? The terms STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) and STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) are in practice used interchangeably, to refer to infections spread through sexual contact. In recent years, STI has become the more popular term. This is because it is considered to sound less stigmatising. Also since some STIs lurk without symptoms, ‘infection’ may be a more useful term than ‘disease’. In practice though, when you see the term STI or STD, they generally mean the same thing. What are the STI symptoms to look out for? All STIs are distinct, but different STIs can create similar symptoms. Common potential STI symptoms include: Pain during urination Sores, rashes or blisters around the anus and/or genitals Itching, tingling or irritation of the genital area and/or anus Discharge from the genitals or anus that has an unusual colour, smell or consistency For women, irregular periods, bleeding after sexual intercourse or bleeding between a period For men, pain in the testes Fleshy growths,... --- If you are experiencing pain upon sexual intercourse or insertion of a tampon, you may be suffering with a condition called vaginismus. Many women silently bear this problem for years without ever hearing its name, so when they finally stumble upon it they commonly ask: but how do I know if I have vaginismus? Let’s break it down. What is vaginismus? Vaginismus is a condition in which the muscles around the vagina involuntarily contract in a conditioned reflex – which makes penetration (for example in sexual intercourse and tampon insertion) painful or even impossible. It is seldom talked about, but vaginismus can cause immense suffering, affecting relationships, confidence and self-esteem. Women with vaginismus are unable to enjoy sex the way most others do. Often sufferers become resigned to it, sometimes believing they must forego intimate relationships altogether. But the good news is, with the right treatment almost all cases of vaginismus can be cured. How common is vaginismus? Dr Alex Eskander, one of the UK’s leading Consultant Gynaecologists at The Gynae Centre says: “There isn’t consensus on the prevalence of vaginismus because it is believed to be underreported and research figures vary so much. For example in reports of data coming out of sexual dysfunction clinics, vaginismus has varied from 5 to 17%. We can say we believe it to be one of the most prevalent psychosexual dysfunctions in women. ”How do I know if I have vaginismus? What does vaginismus feel like? Since vaginal penetration problems are almost never... --- The decision to end a pregnancy is often not an easy one, and in addition you’ll usually need to decide whether to opt for medical abortion or surgical abortion too. Increasingly, women are opting for termination via abortion pills (medical abortion). In 2021 this method accounted for 87% of all terminations in England and Wales (186,936 medical abortions). But what is the process like and are abortion pills safe? Let’s take a look. First things first: what are abortion pills and how do they work? In medical termination of a pregnancy, there are two different abortion pills taken at separate times. The first medicine (named mifepristone) obstructs the vital pregnancy hormone progesterone. This stops the pregnancy from developing and causes it to break away from the uterus wall. The second pill (misoprostol) prompts the womb to contract, leading to natural miscarriage without the need for surgery. It can be likened to an early spontaneous miscarriage, with the crucial difference being that with medical abortion, a woman is ready and able to prepare a comfortable environment to rest in at home through the process. Are abortion pills safe? How safe is the abortion pill? Abortion is generally a very safe process with scant associated risks and side effects. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest that an uncomplicated abortion affects your fertility in the future, or health in general. ” Of course, every medical procedure – without exception – comes with... --- Women’s health after 40 – it’s a crucial topic that too often goes unmentioned. Not least because women in their 40s are often so busy looking after others, whether in the office or at home. So how does a woman’s body change after 40 and what are the most common health issues in your 40s to look out for? Let’s take a look. Perimenopause and hormonal changes Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre and expert on women’s health says: “The hormone shifts that tend to happen in a woman’s 40s can impact so many other areas of women’s health – far beyond menstrual cycles and mood swings. For example, a decline in oestrogen levels increases a woman’s risk for bone problems such as osteoporosis. ”Perimenopause is the name for the time leading up to the menopause (menopause is defined as the absence of menstruation for a year). Perimenopause most often begins in a woman’s forties. During this time, levels of hormones such as oestrogen, testosterone and progesterone are declining, which for many women creates symptoms that can really impact quality of life. You might notice: More UTIs (urinary tract infections). This is due to urethral thinning because of low oestrogen Vaginal dryness and/or itching Pain during sexual intercourse because of vaginal dryness (again due to lower oestrogen levels) Irregular menstruation Heavy bleeding Disturbed sleep Hot flashes Headaches Mood swings Depression Anxiety Problems with memory and concentration Exhaustion Lower libido Dizziness Racing heart and palpitations Aching muscles Dry,... --- What is vaginal dryness? Although it’s a topic that mostly goes unmentioned, vaginal dryness is a problem that many women will face in their lives. Particularly at times when the body is subject to a lot of hormonal changes, such as leading up to and after the menopause, or during breastfeeding. However, the causes of vaginal dryness are not always hormonal and the problem can affect a woman at any age. We spoke to Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre and a leading expert on women’s health, to find out more. What is vaginal dryness? So what is vaginal dryness? Vaginal dryness is when your body is not secreting sufficient vaginal fluid for your vagina to be comfortably lubricated. Vaginal dryness and itching is a common problem that can affect your quality of life, particularly in terms of intimacy. So knowing what to do about it is important. What does vaginal dryness feel like? Symptoms of vaginal dryness may include:An itchy or sore sensation in or around your vaginaDiscomfort or pain when having sexNeeding to urinate more frequentlyRepeated UTIs (urinary tract infections). Causes of vaginal drynessDr Aka says: “The causes of vaginal dryness vary but are often due to hormonal changes. ” For example from:Going through the menopauseBreastfeedingBeing on contraceptive pillsTaking some antidepressantsReceiving cancer treatment such as chemotherapyHaving a hysterectomy or having your ovaries removedLosing or gaining a lot of weightGoing through a time of immense stressHormonal changes – such as lowered oestrogen levels – can affect... --- If you suffer significant period pain every month, you may be left worrying what painful periods mean. It’s a key question to ask, because although most women will experience period pain and it’s nothing to worry about, sometimes what painful periods mean is that there is an underlying gynaecological problem. So what should you look out for? Let’s break it down. What should period pain feel like? Most women will suffer some period pain in their lives, but what should period pain feel like? It’s most often experienced as tummy cramps, but the sensation can spread to the back and thighs. It may be a dull, constant ache, or it may present as strong spasms, or both. Menstrual cramps can vary from period to period, with some months more painful than others. Sometimes period pain changes depending on how many days into your period you are. However, it’s best to see a doctor when period pain is very severe, changes markedly, and/or you notice other symptoms such as: Pain or bleeding after sex Nausea and/or diarrhoea on your period Pain during sex Frequent need to pass water Bleeding between periods Pain during urination Foul-smelling or green/yellow discharge This is because these symptoms could signal an underlying gynaecological problem (see below). Why are my period pains so painful? Period pain occurs when the muscles of the uterus (womb) wall contract, to help shed the uterine lining as part of your menstrual process. These contractions squeeze the blood vessels that line the... --- Have you experienced bleeding after sex? Worried it could be something serious? As London’s leading women’s health clinic, we at The Gynae Centre are highly experienced in investigating and successfully treating this problem. We know it can feel scary and confusing, but is it normal to bleed after sex? Here we spoke to Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, to answer the most common questions we see about bleeding after sex. Is it normal to bleed after sex? Dr Aka says: ‘We gynaecologists are often asked: “Is it normal to bleed after sex? ” Bleeding after sex is fairly common and it could be due to something as simple as too much friction and the need to use a lubricant,’ says Dr Aka. ‘But it isn’t something to be incautious about and the only way to be sure is to see your GP or go straight to a gynaecologist. ’ The top two causes for bleeding after sex are: Cervicitis, which is inflammation of the cervix. This inflammation could be continual and innocuous, or it could stem from a sexually transmitted infection requiring treatment, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia. Cervical polyps (growths – usually benign and often on the cervix opening) There are many other possible reasons for bleeding after sex, including: Vaginal dryness because of the menopause An infection, for example pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) Normal bleeding from the womb if you are just coming on or off your monthly period Polyps (benign growths) in the... --- Making the decision to terminate a pregnancy is usually not an easy one. In addition, what follows is another key choice: medical abortion or surgical abortion? What is the difference and what are the pros and cons of both? Let’s break it down. Medical abortion vs surgical abortion: what’s the difference? Medical abortion is when a pregnancy is terminated via medicines which prompt the body to miscarry. In medical abortion a woman takes two tablets at separate times. The first tablet (called mifepristone) blocks the essential pregnancy hormone progesterone, preventing the pregnancy from progressing and prompting it to break off from the uterine wall. The second tablet (named misoprostol) causes womb contractions that lead to natural miscarriage without surgery. The process is similar to an early spontaneous miscarriage – except obviously with medical abortion, a woman can be prepared and create a comfortable resting environment at home. Many women opt for medical abortion over surgical abortion because it is nonsurgical and non-invasive. Often, medical abortion is performed at the clinic, with pre-screening in person and tablets administered in person. However, recent changes in the law have allowed for medical abortion in the comfort of a woman’s own home. Medical abortion pills by post are when the medicines are sent to you by mail and you take them at home at the allotted times. Here at The Gynae Centre, all patients who choose this option are seen by one of our sympathetic Consultants Gynaecologists (not a nurse) for a telephone consultation... --- Are you suffering discomfort in the area beneath your belly button? This lower abdominal pain (also known as pelvic pain) could feel dull or sharp. It might be intense and sudden (acute) or continue for months (chronic lower abdominal pain). Many women suffer lower abdominal pain at some point and it is often rooted in the reproductive system. There are lots of potential causes of lower abdominal pain and here at The Gynae Centre, many women come to us to resolve it. But what are the different types and what is the most common reason for lower abdominal pain? Most importantly, when is it time to worry? Let’s take a look. What type of lower abdominal pain do I have? Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “There are various types of lower abdominal pain, with distinct causes. Your pain could be intermittent or constant. It could affect the entire pelvic region, or it could dwell in a small part of it. “We call lower abdominal pain chronic when it persists for six months or beyond. Chronic lower abdominal pain may come and go or be with you constantly. “Acute lower abdominal pain however often seems to ‘come out of nowhere’, appearing strongly and abruptly – and it must be explored by a doctor right away. ” Various types of lower abdominal pain include: Discomfort that develops over time but does not subside An abrupt sharp, stabbing or burning feeling A sensation of knotting or twisting Pain... --- Do you experience pain when attempting to use tampons or have sexual intercourse? If so, you may be one of the thousands of women and girls in the UK that has a hymen abnormality. It’s a problem almost never talked about, but it can severely impact on quality of life. Thankfully though there is a straightforward minor procedure to correct hymen abnormalities – hymenectomy (also known as hymenotomy). What is it and who is it for? Read on for everything you need to know about hymenectomy. First things first – what is a hymen? The hymen is a ring of fine, fleshy tissue situated at the vagina’s opening, usually half-moon-shaped. Contrary to popular belief, a normal hymen does not cover the whole vaginal opening, and this allows menstrual blood to pass through the vagina. The hymen may be stretched open resulting in a small tear which heals after approx 10 days and allows penetration easily after. When a woman has sexual intercourse for the first time. Or in other cases, this may happen through playing sport or using a tampon. The hymen does not regrow after it has been stretched open. In rare cases though, a woman’s hymen is different because she has either a septate hymen, cribriform hymen, imperforate hymen, or a microperforate hymen. These hymenal abnormalities are all congenital, meaning someone is born with one of them. In the UK, thousands of women are affected. What is a septate hymen? A septate hymen is one in which an... --- Did you know there are some gynaecological conditions that affect pregnancy? What’s more, these conditions often lurk without symptoms, meaning many women don’t know they have them. Here at The Gynae Centre, patients who want to conceive often ask: what usually causes miscarriage in early pregnancy and what conditions make you a high-risk pregnancy? Let’s take a look. If you’re expecting a baby and have one of these conditions that affect pregnancy, or reason to suspect you might, you should speak to a doctor. STIs and reproductive tract infectionsSexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, and diseases such as HIV, not to mention reproductive tract infections that are often not sexually transmitted (such as bacterial vaginosis) are conditions that affect pregnancy, because they can increase the likelihood of miscarriage. What’s more, often these conditions lurk with no symptoms and many women don’t know they have them. So if there’s any chance you might be affected, get checked out as soon as possible. Uterine fibroidsUterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of fibrous tissue and muscle inside or outside the womb. Many women will get fibroids at some point in their lives and although they are mostly not dangerous, they may heighten the risk of miscarriage and other complications such as preterm delivery and foetal growth restriction. Often a woman who has uterine fibroids will have no symptoms, meaning the fibroids go undetected. However, they can be easily diagnosed via transvaginal ultrasound. Adenomyosis or endometriosisAdenomyosis and endometriosis are two fairly common... --- Are you seeking help for menopause symptoms? Through menopause and the years leading up (perimenopause), enormous hormone-related changes can affect your mental and physical wellbeing, including your gynaecological health. The symptoms of menopause are many and can hugely affect all areas of a woman’s life – including work, play and even sleep. So what help for menopause is available to help you feel like yourself again? Let’s break it down. First things first – what is the menopause? Simply put, menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her menstrual periods cease because the hormones governing the process are depleted. Perimenopause is the process leading up to this point, when a woman is experiencing menopausal symptoms – ‘going through’ the menopause. A woman is considered to have ‘gone through’ the menopause when she has had no period for twelve months. Usually, a woman reaches menopause between the ages of 45-55, though it can sometimes happen earlier. What are the symptoms of menopause? Menopause symptoms often have a significant impact on a woman’s life, beginning and continuing for months or years before cessation of periods. Most symptoms result from falling levels of oestrogen. They vary from woman to woman and you may find you experience very little or even no problems. However, common symptoms include: Brain fog Anxiety Low mood Hot flushes (hot flashes) Dizziness Mood swings Disturbed sleep Racing heart Migraines and/or headaches Muscle aches Putting on weight Itchy and dry skin High blood pressure More brittle bones (from... --- Sexual health is an issue affecting everyone. In 2019 alone, more than 2. 74 million people in England attended a sexual health clinic. And every year, hundreds of thousands of Britons are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Over a lifetime, many of us will need to seek sexual health support. Yet despite how common sexual health problems are, most of us are reluctant to talk about them. For example recent research found that Britons most commonly do their google searches about STIs and screening in the early hours. This finding reflects a sense of shame and taboo – that it is in our most isolated moments that we seek answers to these questions. For Sexual Health Awareness Week 2022, we spoke to Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre and renowned expert on sexual health, about why we need increased awareness. Why is there still such a taboo around sexual health? “I think a lot of the stigma is driven by a lack of awareness. There are still many myths about sexual health,’ Dr Aka explains. “For example, in reality anyone can get an STI, and yet sadly it is all too often seen as shameful. ” How would you define sexual health? “First and foremost, sexual health means defence against disease, including HIV and STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea,’ Dr Aka says. ‘But such protection depends upon access to accurate information about infection transmission and STI testing – not to mention access to the... --- Are you experiencing pain in the region below your belly button? This lower abdominal pain is known as pelvic pain. It may feel sharp or dull. It can be either sudden and intense (acute), or chronic – persisting for months. In women, pelvic pain is fairly common and frequently connected to the reproductive system. There are many possible causes of pelvic pain. Here we respond to some common questions about it. Where is the location of pelvic pain? Pelvic pain is pain in your lower abdominal area (beneath your belly button, in the lower tummy). What are the symptoms of pelvic pain? There are different kinds of pelvic pain, with varying causes. It can be either intermittent or constant. It can be confined to a small area of the pelvis, or affect the whole lower abdominal region. Chronic pelvic pain is that which continues for six months or more, and it can either be constant or come and go. On the other hand, acute pelvic pain begins strongly and abruptly, and needs to be investigated as soon as possible. Different types of pelvic pain include:A sudden sharp, burning or stabbing sensationA pain that develops gradually but does not subsideA throbbing pain, or cramping sensation, which may fluctuateA dull aching feelingA sensation of pressureA feeling of twisting or knottingPain only during certain activities, for example urinating, exercising or having sexPelvic pain may be accompanied by other symptoms (see below). What causes pelvic pain? Pelvic pain in a woman could be down... --- Do you have any of the following problems? Pain during sex An inability to have sex due to a ‘brick wall feeling’ making penetration impossible Significant pain during a smear test (that may even make you unable to undergo the test) Pain when putting in a tampon, or simply being unable to put in a tampon Feeling as though there is insufficient room in your vagina to have intercourse or insert a tampon So why is having sex and using tampons painful? It is rarely talked about but pain upon penetration of the vagina is something that countless women suffer with – sadly often in silence. They often have to avoid sex altogether, or simply hope the problem will go away on its own, telling themselves ‘just relax’ while it only gets worse. But this problem has a name – vaginismus – and thankfully a solution. What is vaginismus? Vaginismus (also sometimes called Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder or Dyspareunia) is a disorder in which a woman’s vaginal muscles involuntarily clench when insertion is attempted, making penetration painful or even impossible. Women often complain of burning pain, a tight sensation or of ‘hitting a brick wall’. What causes vaginismus? Vaginismus is rooted in messages sent from the brain to the muscles of the vagina, causing them to contract. These signals are your brain’s attempt to prevent pain. When your brain expects that penetration will cause you pain, it tightens your muscles to prevent it. While it is often rooted in a psychosexual... --- It’s totally normal for women to experience some vaginal discharge – most do. And while it’s not glamourous, it fulfils an important function in guarding against infection and keeping your vagina moist and clean. In almost all cases vaginal discharge is healthy and nothing to worry about. However there are a few things to look out for which could signal a problem. Here we break it down. What does my discharge tell me? Vaginal discharge is usually no cause for concern, providing it: Is white or clear Is sticky and thick Does not have a pungent or unpleasant odour Is slick and wet Healthy vaginal discharge can fluctuate and change. For example if you’re pregnant, on birth control or having sex, your vaginal discharge will likely be heavier. During ovulation, discharge is often wet and slippery. What does creamy white discharge mean? Creamy white discharge is a common component of a woman’s monthly cycle. For instance, cloudy white discharge is common prior to ovulation, as is sticky discharge. On the other hand, white discharge could also be a sign of a yeast infection or pregnancy. If you have a yeast infection such as thrush, the discharge will be white and thick with a cottage-cheese-like consistency, and you may experience other symptoms including itching or a burning feeling in the vaginal region. In pregnancy, many women experience a milky white discharge known as leukorrhea. On the other hand, pregnant women may be more likely to experience vaginal infections, so if in... --- Endometriosis and ovarian cancer are two gynaecological diseases that share similar symptoms, and are difficult to diagnose. It was previously thought that the two conditions were not linked, despite being similar in nature and location in the body; however, a recent study has shown that endometriosis is genetically correlated with ovarian cancer. Endometriosis is a benign condition that affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK, while ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in women, with approximately 7,500 new cases diagnosed in the UK each year. In light of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day, we explore the link between endometriosis and ovarian cancer, possible causes, and what you can do if you are worried about endometriosis increasing your cancer risk. Am I more at risk of ovarian cancer if I have endometriosis? A new study by the University of Queensland has identified that those with genes that predispose them to endometriosis are 2. 6 times more likely to develop ovarian cancer. In the genomes of 15,000 women with endometriosis and 25,000 with ovarian cancer, the researchers behind the study identified 28 genetic markers that contribute to the risk of both endometriosis and ovarian cancer. The research identified that endometriosis was linked to three types of ovarian cancer: Clear cell ovarian cancer (CCOC) – an uncommon type of cancer that accounts for five to 10% of all diagnosed cases Endometrioid ovarian carcinoma (EnOC) – a unique ovarian cancer type that accounts for around 10% of all diagnosed cases To... --- Your vaginal health is dependent on a number of controllable and uncontrollable factors. However, the former far outweighs the latter, which means that, much of the time, the health of your vagina is in your control. When we talk about uncontrollable factors, this could be genetics, age, the type of medication that you may be taking, whether you are suffering from a condition which could cause a vaginal health issue, or if you have suffered with sexual violence or abuse. These factors relate to a number of female health issues, including gynaecological cancers, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), vaginismus, and more. However, when it comes to the things we can control, there are a great many conditions that can be avoided by becoming more aware of your vaginal health and taking steps to maintain it. How can I have good vaginal health? Here, we talk about how you can take control of your vaginal health by avoiding these six bad habits. 1. Vaginal Steaming The popularity of this treatment has increased dramatically across the Western world in recent years; however, its roots lie in ancient tradition, where women across Africa, Asia and Central America would squat over steaming water infused with mugwort and other herbs with the aim of supposedly improving fertility, cleanliness and sexual pleasure. Modern marketing of this treatment is also plagued with unbacked claims that it can balance hormones. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: “Not only do we lack evidence of these health... --- Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the UK, with around 7,500 new cases each year. It is also the sixth most common cause of cancer deaths in women, with around 4,200 deaths each year; however, survival rates are improving and have almost doubled in the last four decades. It’s time to familiarise yourself with the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Those most at risk of cervical cancer are women aged 70 and above, due to cell DNA damage that accumulates over the years. Other risk factors include having a mother or sister who has had ovarian cancer; inheriting conditions such as BRCA1/2 mutations or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome; suffering with endometriosis or diabetes; and being obese. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is often diagnosed late as its symptoms can be confused with those of other conditions. Understandably, many people live busy lives and may not have the time or inclination to undergo many different investigations with their doctor, especially if symptoms are not causing them pain. In addition, symptoms may be dismissed as non-serious, which further prolongs diagnosis. That being said, it is important to know your body, and seek specialist help, if necessary, if you feel that something is wrong. How to become more familiar with your bodyBecoming more familiar with what your body looks like and how it feels day-to-day is extremely important in helping you understand when something is wrong. Every day, take some time to be aware and present when it comes to your body with these tips:Examine... --- Cervical screening after sexual violence can make you feel apprehensive. We provide advice for survivors on how to feel more comfortable during an appointment. Gynaecological appointments are different for everyone; some may be completely comfortable with these often quick and painless appointments, while others may experience mild discomfort, awkwardness or embarrassment. However, attending a pelvic exam or cervical screening after sexual violence may feel quite different. We understand that this is a sensitive topic, therefore we will avoid triggering language where possible and refer to sexual assault and violence as ‘SA’ and ‘SV’. In this article, we cover some advice on how to become more comfortable when attending a gynaecological appointment. You may be asked to or request to attend this type of appointment for an HPV or other STI screening, investigating abnormal bleeding, fertility screening, pregnancy scans, pregnancy termination or any other gynaecological investigations. Some appointments involve non-invasive procedures such as pelvic scan, during which only the lower abdomen area needs to be exposed and examined using an ultrasound device. Others, such as a smear test for an HPV screening, are slightly more invasive, and require a closer examination of the genitalia and pelvic organs. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist, says: “At The Gynae Centre, our staff have specialist training in order to support all our patients. Our support team is very caring and goes above and beyond to accommodate any requirements to make sure you feel comfortable during appointments of any kind. We have experience with an extensive range of gynaecological conditions in patients of all backgrounds, so please be assured that we can address your needs fully. In addition, our consultations... --- In this article, we take a closer look at HPV, how it can cause cervical cancer, and why regular screenings are so important. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was launched in 2008, and has since then been provided to girls aged between 11 and 13, and boys from 2019 onwards, on the NHS in the UK. A study published in The Lancet estimated that the reduction in cervical cancer rates by age at vaccine offer were 34% for age 16–18, 62% for age 14–16, and 87% for age 12–13, compared with those who were unvaccinated. The same study revealed that, ‘the HPV immunisation programme has successfully almost eliminated cervical cancer in women born since Sept 1, 1995’.   The evidence of reduction in both HPV infection and cervical cancer rates makes this one of the most important breakthroughs in women’s health this century. However, you may be wondering, do I still need smear tests with the HPV vaccination? If you have received this vaccine, it is still possible for you to catch HPV, and therefore you should still attend regular smear tests to check for infection. In this article, we take a closer look at HPV, how it can cause cervical cancer, and why regular screenings are so important. What Is HPV And How Can It Cause Cervical Cancer? HPV is a group of common viruses that affect the skin, mouth, throat and genital areas. As HPV is highly transmissible, most people will, at some point in their lives, catch some type of it through sexual contact, including penetration, skin-to-skin contact with genitals, oral sex and sharing sex toys. However, in most cases... --- The vagina is a significant organ in the female anatomy, responsible for expelling waste from the body, giving birth and providing pleasure – so why is it shrouded in mystery and, in some circles, linked to shame and embarrassment? From learning the correct terms for the parts of the female genitalia, to getting to know how your own vulva and vagina looks, feels and even smells, there are many ways to increase vaginal confidence with the aim of improving health and comfort, as well as changing the way we view and talk about vaginas in general. In this blog post, we look at the things that you can do at home to boost your vaginal confidence. Learning The LingoDid you know that only half of women aged 26-35 are able to correctly identify the location of the vagina? This statistic alone is enough evidence of the cultural taboo surrounding the female anatomy - a taboo which not only encourages women to feel shameful or embarrassed to talk about their bodies, but also discourages some women to seek help for potentially life threatening issues such as cervical cancer and serious sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). For the record, the vagina is the part of the female genitals that extends from the vaginal opening to the cervix. It is surrounded, on the outside, by the vulva, which is the part that is often mistaken for the vagina. The vulva consists of the vaginal lips, clitoris and the Bartholin’s glands, which secrete mucus to... --- Like many sexual health issues, vaginal dryness seems like a taboo subject in many circles. However, it is a very common condition that affects both premenopausal and postmenopausal women of all ages. A range of different studies has revealed that more than 17% of premenopausal women experience vaginal dryness that affects sexual intercourse, while over 50% of postmenopausal women suffer from mild to severe vaginal dryness due to hormonal imbalance. Dr Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre explains: “Vaginal dryness is nothing to be embarrassed about. However, if you are suffering from symptoms that may indicate vaginal dryness and this is affecting your wellbeing, it is advised to seek a diagnosis. There may be an underlying issue causing the dryness that could be treated, relieving your symptoms and allowing you to be more comfortable both during intercourse and in daily life. ” How does vaginal lubrication work? The vagina usually lubricates itself throughout the day with a natural substance called discharge. In a vagina that does not suffer from dryness, some discharge is always present, but will increase when a woman is aroused or during the period of ovulation. Discharge is secreted from cells in the vaginal walls and the cervix. The purpose of discharge is to maintain the vagina’s pH balance, cleanse away old cells through the vaginal opening, and to lubricate the vagina for intercourse. Healthy discharge can be clear or white/creamy, with a sticky or slippery consistency. Vaginal dryness: What does it feel like? Vaginal dryness... --- In light of World Perimenopause Day (11th October), we look at the potential issues that someone with perimenopause may come across in relation to sex, and provide practical tips for achieving a healthier, more comfortable and fun sex life during this period and beyond. Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause where your body begins to go through a natural transition to the end of your reproductive years. This period can be anywhere from a few months to 10 years before menopause, and most commonly occurs in a woman’s forties. The changes experienced during perimenopause are hormonal, and can include irregular periods, hot flushes, weight gain and, in some cases, certain physical and mental changes that impact sex life, such as vaginal dryness and low libido. Sexual health issues caused by perimenopause The decrease in oestrogen levels during perimenopause is at the root of many sexual health issues experienced by women during this time. This drop in oestrogen can cause: Vaginal dryness – this is a lack of naturally produced lubrication that can cause pain or discomfort during sex due to inflammation, as well as bleeding, itching and soreness. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – perimenopausal and menopausal women are more at risk of UTIs including cystitis and urethritis. Low libido – a loss of interest in sex or difficulty maintaining arousal. This may affect relationships and can lead to low self-esteem and a negative connection to sex and intimacy. Although these issues can be frustrating, it is important to... --- You may have heard of a condition called vaginismus that affects women. Vaginismus is far more common than most women realise, but rarely talked about. In support of Vaginismus Awareness Day on the 15th of September 2021, we combat some unhelpful myths surrounding the condition, helping to break the stigma associated with it and increase the conversation around seeking help and treatment. Vaginismus is a condition wherein the vaginal muscles are involuntarily tensed when insertion is attempted, prohibiting penetration. Symptoms include a tight feeling and burning pain, or the common description of ‘hitting a brick wall,’ whenever a woman tries to insert something into her vagina – in some cases even tampons. For some vaginismus causes difficulty with insertion; for others insertion becomes impossible. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre explains: “An abundance of exaggerated, misleading, or entirely incorrect information circulating about vaginismus can deter women from seeking help. This can be due to feelings of embarrassment or the belief that pain during intercourse is normal, ultimately having a negative impact on their relationship with sex, as well as their self-esteem. In reality vaginismus is nothing to feel ashamed about, and effective treatment is available. ” Fact Vs. Fiction – Vaginismus Myths 1. Vaginismus is all in your mind Vaginismus is caused by signals sent from your brain to your vaginal muscles, causing them to tighten. This response is often your brain’s way of preventing pain – if it anticipates that vaginal insertion will cause you pain,... --- The phrase ‘too much of a good thing’ can absolutely apply to sex – we know that too much sex or rough sex can cause small tears in the vaginal wall and increase the chance of bacterial infections – but what about abstaining from sex for a long period of time? For men, the effects of going without ejaculation for long periods of time can include epididymal hypertension (known colloquially as ‘blue balls’); sexual frustration; and the possibility that the body may ejaculate voluntarily, most likely resulting in a nocturnal emission (wet dream). For women, however, the effects may not be as obvious. In this blog post, we explore the reasons for long-term abstinence, the physical and mental effects, and how masturbation can play a role in sexual health. Reasons why you might abstain from sex The are lots of reasons why you might go a long time without having sex, or stop having sex altogether. The societal pressures around having sex can sometimes be enough to make you want to abstain out of choice. However, it is important to know that there is no shame in not having sex, and many people live happy, sex-free lives. Here are some common reasons for abstaining from sex: Asexuality Someone who is asexual is not sexually attracted to others, or has a low interest in sex. This may be due to personal choice, previous trauma associated with sex, health issues, a preference for platonic relationships, or being asexual from birth. Some asexual... --- Burning or stinging in your pubic region, of any kind, can be alarming. Instantly, your mind may conjure up the worst scenarios when, in fact, the cause could be something relatively harmless. To put your mind at ease, we have listed seven reasons why you may feel a burning or stinging sensation in your vagina following sexual intercourse, and how it can be soothed or treated. 1. Rough Sex It can be easy to get carried away if you’re enjoying it, but sex that is slightly rougher than normal, or that goes on for longer than it usually would, may leave you with a burning feeling. This is caused by friction inside the vagina, and should disappear within a few days. However, during this time, it is best to use a barrier method during sex as tiny tears in your vagina will make you more susceptible to infections. If you find that this happens often, try using more lubricant during sex to prevent further injury. 2. Vaginismus Vaginismus is a condition which causes the muscles in the vagina to contract, making penetration difficult, uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Unfortunately, no one knows what causes vaginismus; however, Botox has been found to treat the condition effectively, allowing for comfortable penetration. 3. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Anyone who has had a UTI knows how painful and irritating it can feel, but adding sex to this equation can make things even worse. UTIs cause inflammation around the lower urinary tract, and penetration can trigger... --- Down’s syndrome is a lifelong condition that manifests during pregnancy, and is defined by the foetus acquiring an extra chromosome. Down’s syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in every 800 live births, making it one of the most common chromosomal abnormalities in pregnancy. People with Down’s syndrome can live long lives thanks to years of research and medical advances. Although some degree of learning disability is likely to occur, most children with the condition are able to learn to walk and talk, attend school, and become semi- independent in adulthood. with the right care, most go on to lead full lives and achieve typical life goals. Here, we explore the factors that could increase the risk of a baby being born with Down’s syndrome. We also take a look at which tests that are available for pregnant women. Factors That Could Increase The Risk Of Down’s Syndrome Currently, there is no known method of preventing Down’s syndrome from occurring. However, there are two main factors that may increase risk: Age of the mother: As the age of a woman’s eggs increases, so does the risk of the chromosomes dividing abnormally, which in turn increases the risk of Down’s syndrome occurring. A 20-year-old woman would have a 1 in 1,450 chance of having a baby with this condition, whereas a 35- year-old woman’s risk is 1 in 350. Genetics: If a blood relative of either partner has Down’s syndrome, it could mean that the gene for the condition could be passed down... --- We all know that menopause marks the end of your periods, but what happens to your vagina during menopause? Did you know that perimenopause and menopause can affect the way your vagina feels and performs? This group of symptoms is called genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), and although it doesn’t affect all menopausal women, it’s more common than you think. Dr Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says, ‘Many patients complain of symptoms that make them feel less ‘womanly’ or ‘sexual’ during the menopause, and have never even heard of GSM. As a consequence, they do not realise until they seek advice from a gynaecologist that there are medications and lifestyle changes that can be made to alleviate these symptoms, allowing them to regain their comfort and self-esteem. ’ How Common Is Genitourinary Syndrome (GSM) In Menopause? Previously known as vulvovaginal atrophy, GSM can cause vaginal dryness, itching, urinary tract infections and more. These aggravating symptoms can be persistent without treatment and often go unreported due to embarrassment, concern about the social stigma attached to vaginal health issues, or choosing to self-medicate. Symptoms can also be misdiagnosed, with patients receiving treatment for individual symptoms, rather than the root cause. Although it is difficult to pin down an exact percentage of menopausal women with GSM due to underreporting and misdiagnosis, we can approximate from several studies that around 27% to 84% of postmenopausal women are affected by the condition. One particular survey found that 59% of menopausal women felt the... --- What can a pregnancy scan tell you about your baby? A pregnancy scan presents an exciting opportunity to see your baby and learn about its gender, size and due date. It can also be a little stressful if you are worried about any aspect of your pregnancy, or yours or your baby’s health. If you are due for a pregnancy scan, it is a good idea to know what to expect before you attend your appointment, so that you can be emotionally and mentally prepared, as well as knowing which questions to ask your obstetrician or sonographer. Throughout your pregnancy, you may undergo at least two scans. Pregnancy scans can provide information to help you plan your pregnancy and prepare for motherhood, such as the number of babies you are having, the gender and your estimated due date (EDD). They are also used to monitor the health and progress of your pregnancy, including observing the size of the baby and checking for any defects. What Pregnancy Scans Can Detect: How far along you are in the pregnancy The number of fetuses Gender Estimated due date The size of the fetus Whether the fetus is viable or non-viable The risk of Down’s syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities Congenital defects such as cleft lip or spina bifida The condition and position of the placenta The health of the maternal organs Dr Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says, ‘Pregnancy scans are not compulsory – some women choose not to have them... --- Attendance for cervical screenings has fallen year on year across the country, despite the fact that cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women under the age of 35. This worrying statistic has prompted the need for at-home testing for human papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes around 70% of cervical cancer cases, to encourage more women to get tested. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologst at The Gynae Centre comments: “We are delighted to be able to introduce at-home HPV testing at The Gynae Centre to encourage more women to get tested, in turn saving lives and giving women peace of mind about their gynaecological health. ”Why Would You Need An At-Home HPV Test? There are many reasons why a woman may prolong attendance of her cervical screening for HPV, or put it off altogether. Although most screenings are carried out very quickly, with minimum discomfort and embarrassment, it is still a procedure that some women may not feel comfortable enough to go through with. A self-screening test for HPV may be a better option for women who:Feel too embarrassed or awkwardAre anxious about potential pain or discomfort during the testFeel that the invasiveness of the procedure conflicts with their religious valuesHave experienced sexual abuse or trauma in the pastAre too busy to attend an in-person screeningAre shielding during the COVID-19 pandemicHow Do At-Home HPV Tests Work? Self-screening for HPV does not require the use of a speculum. Instead, you will be provided with a cotton swab and a... --- Your vagina is home to millions of bacteria. This is collectively called a ‘vaginal microbiome’, and it can tell you a lot about your feminine health. The vaginal microbiome is very dynamic, with changes in your bacterial balance occuring due to menstruation, menopause, sex and more. However, too much change in the microbiome can cause conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), can increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other feminine health issues. What Is A Vaginal Microbiome? The vaginal microbiome is a collective term for the microbes found in the vagina. These bacteria protect you and your vagina against pathogens, which could turn into diseases or infections if the bacteria were not present. There is limited research on exactly how the vaginal microbiome affects, but we do know that an imbalance, called ‘vaginal dysbiosis’, can result in common feminine health conditions such as BV. This can cause fishy-smelling discharge which is often grey in colour; however, it has been found that 50% of women do not experience any symptoms. What Bacteria Are Found In The Vagina? Unlike the gut microbiome, which harbours lots of different types of bacteria that have different functions, the vaginal microbiome is dominated by a type of bacteria called Lactobacillus. Lactobacilli produce lactic acid, which is what protects the vagina against pathogens. When pathogens or anaerobic bacteria enter the vagina, the lactic acid stops them from growing and prevents them from causing an infection. These pathogens and bacteria include: Candida (a genus... --- Cervical Cancer Prevention Week takes place this month from 18th to 24th January and aims to raise awareness of the importance of regular smear tests to help prevent cervical cancer. There are over 3,000 cases of cervical cancer diagnosed each year in the UK, with most cases being caused by a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease. Although the average age of cervical cancer diagnosis globally is 53 years, it is one of the top three cancers affecting women younger than the age of 45. Thanks to years of research, cervical cancer can be treated with a high success rate if caught early with a smear test. This is a simple routine test that takes no more than five minutes; it should be painless, but there are some patients who may find the test uncomfortable or embarrassing due to the sensitivity of the area in which it takes place. With this in mind, we have put together some tips to help make your next smear test more comfortable. 1. Remember that your GP or gynaecologist has seen many vaginas beforeThere is really no need to feel embarrassed at the thought of your doctor seeing your vagina. They have likely performed thousands of pelvic exams, and seen thousands of female reproductive parts in all colours, shapes and sizes. 2. Wear warm clothingFor the test, you will be required to remove your trousers/skirt and underwear. This will make you feel cold and uncomfortable, so wear something warm on... --- The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult and traumatic for people across the world, but there is one group of people in particular who are especially vulnerable to the far-reaching effects of the virus: pregnant women. From being placed in a vulnerable group in regards to the virus, to having partners banned from antenatal appointments, pregnant women are not only faced with the physical threat of COVID-19, but also its mental and emotional strains. Unfortunately, the effects of the pandemic are so pervasive that women are actually putting off becoming pregnant, according to a new study. COVID-19 Pregnancy Stress And AnxietyThe research shows that nearly 20% of women say they’re uncertain of their plans to conceive, while 38% are intentionally putting off conceiving during the pandemic due to the anxiety and stress that they believe they are likely to experience, or are already experiencing. Negative emotions are likely to run high amongst pregnant women or those trying to conceive during this time due to:Being placed in a vulnerable category - Almost immediately after the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19 a pandemic, pregnant women were placed in a category of vulnerability and asked to take extra precautions such as avoiding public transport and physical contact with others. Fearing ill health for themselves or their child - There is still much that is unknown about the COVID-19 virus, as well as an abundance of misinformation readily available on the internet. With that in mind, many mothers-to-be may fear that they, or their baby,... --- Bleeding between periods is called spotting. It’s usually a small amount of blood that does not require a sanitary towel or tampon. Most women will experience abnormal bleeding at some point in their lives and whilst in most cases it’s harmless, it can signify something a bit more serious is going on, so it’s always best to get it checked by your GP or gynaecologist. What can cause bleeding between periods? Bleeding between periods can be caused by a number of factors: Birth control: It’s common to experience some spotting when you first start hormonal birth control as a result of changes in the uterus. If you’re on the pill and are late taking one or forget one, you may have some spotting. Additionally, if you have an IUD fitted this can also increase your chance of abnormal bleeding between periods. Stress: Whatever the cause, intense periods of stress can impact you physically as well as mentally. If you’re really stressed you may notice changes to your menstrual cycle – it may be longer, shorter or even more painful. Why? Stress triggers the fight or flight mode in the body, which creates an abundance of the stress hormone, cortisol. Cortisol can suppress reproductive hormones, impacting ovulation and resulting in abnormal ovulation or no ovulation. Sexually transmitted infection (STI): STIs are a common cause of spotting, particularly with chlamydia. Women with chlamydia may have spotting between periods and/or during and after sex (postcoital bleeding). Gonorrhoea is another STI that can cause... --- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common female hormone disorder that affects around 1 in 5 women in the UK. The condition causes a hormonal imbalance, which in turn causes fluid-filled sacs to develop in the ovaries. Considering its prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about PCOS, especially concerning its links to menopause. World Menopause Day takes place on 18th October 2020, and in light of this event, we are sharing important facts about PCOS and its impact on the female body during perimenopause and menopause. With many women around the world suffering from this condition, sharing helpful information can improve the lives of those with the condition by erasing the stigma, correcting misinformation, and encouraging those in need to seek help from a specialist. If you would like to know more about PCOS, read on for five lesser-known facts. 1. Menopause does not cure PCOS Yes, menopause carries with it many changes to your hormones, but it does not guarantee that your PCOS will disappear. The best way to manage your symptoms is through lifestyle changes or hormone therapy. “Hormone therapy, also known as HRT, is an effective treatment for managing the symptoms of both PCOS and menopause, as both are caused by a hormonal imbalance. HRT balances out the hormones to bring them back to the level they should be in the body, and as a result, eases symptoms. ” explains Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynecologist here at The Gynae Centre. 2. Having PCOS can delay menopause One... --- From itchiness to strange odours, there’s a lot that your vagina can tell you about its health. This incredible organ is extremely complex, which is why it’s important to monitor your vaginal health and seek the help of an expert gynaecologist when you see or feel anything that you’re worried about. These consultants are dedicated to making your vagina and reproductive organs happier and healthier – plus, they’ve seen everything, so you shouldn’t ever have to feel embarrassed at your gynaecological appointment. In most cases, you can maintain your vagina’s healthiness and happiness at home with simple habits and lifestyle choices. However, there are common vaginal conditions that can occur even if you’re pampering your privates on a regular basis. Vaginas... What Can Go Wrong? A simple imbalance of the organisms in the vagina can lead to infections and discomfort. These can manifest in common conditions such as a yeast infection, which will affect up to 75% of women at some point in their lives. Causes include: Taking hormonal birth control Other hormonal changes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding and undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) Douches and vaginal sprays Wearing tight clothing that doesn’t allow your vagina to breathe Diabetes A weakened immune system Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common condition caused by a bacterial imbalance. It is one of the most common vaginal infections in women, and it’s associated with overgrowth of microorganisms, which outnumber the healthy microorganisms, including lactobacillus (a friendly bacteria that lives in our urinary, genital and... --- With 207,384 carried out in England and Wales in 2019, abortions are a vital part of the healthcare system. In March, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government temporarily relaxed the law (the Coronavirus Act) to allow women to take medical abortion pills at home for a period of two years. This change in the law enables us to support women by providing to women living anywhere in the UK (except Scotland and Northern Ireland). An abortion is a very time-sensitive procedure and during this unusual time, we feel it’s more important than ever before to ensure women still have access to a safe pregnancy termination service in a timely manner. “Whilst many women opt to have a pregnancy termination have on the NHS, a private medical abortion means no waiting times and allows you the flexibility of choosing a clinic and consultant that you feel comfortable with. ” explains Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynecologist at The Gynae Centre. “Pills by post also allow women to go through the termination on their own terms, in the comfort, and privacy of their own home. As no time is spent at the clinic, it limits time spent face-to-face with others in order to limit any unnecessary risk of infection. ”How Is Medical Abortion By Post Different To Medical Abortion? It is the same process – you’ll be required to take two pills, mifepristone and misoprostol. You will still be required to have a thorough consultation with your consultant, but instead of... --- The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many areas of our lives, from the way we work to how we socialise. For many women, however, the effects of the pandemic go much deeper, impacting sexual health and pregnancy. Are Pregnant Women More At Risk Of COVID-19? Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre explains: “There is not enough evidence to show that pregnant women are more likely to contract the COVID-19 virus. However, as soon as lockdown measures were announced in the UK, pregnant women were listed as being amongst the most vulnerable. This is due to existing evidence which shows that pregnant women are more likely to develop complications if they get the flu (COVID-19 and the flu share some similar symptoms). ”Can COVID-19 Pass From Pregnant Women To Their Babies? If you are pregnant and you contract COVID-19, there is a risk that you can pass it onto your baby. However, babies have recovered from the virus in these cases. As of yet, there is no evidence that COVID-19 causes miscarriage or developmental issues with foetuses. Attending Antenatal Appointments And Scans During LockdownEarly on in the pandemic, the UK advised pregnant women to keep antenatal appointments. However, there are limitations to this. Midwife appointments may take place online or via phone, women may have to attend scans alone, and some appointments may have to be cancelled or rescheduled if hospitals and clinics are too busy. Pregnancy can be an exciting but also pressured time in a woman’s... --- If you’ve never had a smear test, the idea of it can seem a bit intimidating. It doesn’t help that everybody’s experience is different and hearing stories which concern you and some which comfort you can make it difficult to decide how you feel about it. In this blog post, we look at the facts of cervical screenings by answering the most common questions surrounding this short and simple test. This will hopefully help to inform you and give you more of an idea of what to expect when you attend your own screening. What Is A Cervical Smear Test For? A smear test, or cervical screening, is a simple test that checks for human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. The test also checks for changes in the cells covering the neck of your womb. These changes could later develop into cervical cancer if not treated. What Happens During A Smear Test? Your smear test will take place with a doctor or nurse in a private room. You can ask the doctor or nurse any questions before the test begins. You will then be asked to take your clothes off your bottom half behind a privacy curtain or screen, then lie on a bed with your knees bent and apart. This allows the doctor to access the cervix easily and with minimal discomfort to you. A speculum will be gently inserted into your vagina, and a small, soft brush will be used to sample cells from your cervix. This should take... --- With today’s technology, we can track how many calories we burn in a day, record our sleep patterns and even improve our mental health with daily mind exercises. These technologies, usually accessed through apps or wearable tech, encourage us to be more conscious of our health and make positive changes as a result. One type of app, however, has caused controversy as to its efficacy: period trackers. There are many of these apps that have been created by reputable companies within the women’s health sector, and several (Flo, Clue and Natural Cycles, which currently dominate the app market in this category) have become extremely popular with women who wish to track their menstrual cycles through their smartphones. The main aim of a period tracker app is to record periods and associated physical, mental and emotional symptoms, usually in the form of an interactive calendar or diary. However, some period tracker app creators also claim that their apps can be used as a form of contraception. It is this claim that has caused concerns of safety, efficacy and legitimacy from health professionals. The Theory Behind Period Tracking As Contraception Period trackers allow you to input information about your period into an app. This information includes the length of your cycle, when it occurs, and sometimes any related symptoms such as headaches, cramps or mood swings. Over time, period trackers can use an averaging system to work out when your next period will be, and its length. It must be emphasised that... --- With the busy lives we lead, it’s easy to see how the basics, like looking after our health, can slip through the cracks. Thankfully, more and more women are taking charge of their health with preventative healthcare in the form of the well woman check. What Is A Well Woman Check? A well woman check is designed for women who would like to take a preventative approach to their healthcare for peace of mind. They are designed to detect any potential health issues early, whilst they are easier to treat. You don’t need to wait until you’ve got a problem to attend a well woman check. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, comments: “I would recommend a well woman check on a yearly basis for most women. Some life threatening conditions don’t always show any symptoms and so early detection can save lives. Generally speaking, identifying problems early on means they are easier to treat. The well woman checks we offer in the clinic are very comprehensive and are tailored to address the key areas of women's health according to age and risk factors. ” We currently offer two different well woman checks in London. One for women up to 40 years of age (Level 1), and one for women over 40 (Level 2). The level 1 well woman check includes the following: Health screen questionnaire: You’ll fill this in before your appointment so that your consultant can get a full picture of your health during your... --- It’s just as important to look after your vaginal health as it is to take care of the rest of your body – a happy vagina = happy self. Be good to your lady bits and they’ll be good to you! Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre provides 7 expert tips on how to keep your vagina happy and healthy. 1. Shower and change after the gym or swimmingThe vulva has two types of sweat glands: Eccrine glands and apocrine glands. When you exercise, these naturally release sweat. This is completely normal, but the problem is that a warm, moist area like this is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. By staying in your tight-fitting gym clothes or swimming gear, you’re giving bacteria a chance to grow, leaving you at risk of yeast infections, odour and chafing – and nobody wants that! You can reduce your chance of this by changing out of your swimwear or gym gear as soon as you are finished working out. Have a hot wash or shower to remove any bacteria and leave the area clean and dry. 2. Avoid using products inside the vaginaThese days we hear many stories about women using all sorts of strange methods to clean their vagina – remember vaginal steaming? But the vagina is self cleaning and doesn’t require any cleaning or douching. In fact, these actions can upset the vagina’s pH balance and the delicate flora and fauna, in turn leading to yeast infections and... --- How soon can I have a baby gender scan? Is a question we are asked frequently. With the excitement of having a baby, it’s understandable many women are keen to find out as early as possible if they are having a boy or a girl. A baby gender scan usually takes place during the second routine scan of your pregnancy, if you request it; however, it can take place sooner if you book with a private clinic. The sex of your baby is identified by your sonographer through images formed by the waves created during the ultrasound scan. When Can I Have A Baby Gender Scan? On the NHS, this scan usually takes place between 18 to 21 weeks into your pregnancy. Most private clinics offer the scan from 16 weeks, while we at The Gynae Centre are able to offer a baby gender scan from 12 weeks. The reason that a sonographer is unlikely to be able to correctly identify a baby’s sex before 12 weeks is because, before this time, both male and female genitalia appear identical. How are we able to offer a baby gender scan at 12 weeks? We have some of the UK’s finest Consultant Gynaecolgists. Dr Eskander has over 30 years experience in ultrasound gender identification. In fact, we’re so confident, we offer 99% accuracy or your money back. What Happens During A Baby Gender Scan? At your scan, you will be asked to lie on a bed in a dimly lit room in... --- The combination pill is the most common type of hormonal birth control pill. This works by increasing the amount of oestrogen and progesterone in your system, which prevents your body from releasing an egg. However, these hormones make a greater impact on your body than just preventing pregnancies. A change in your hormones can alter your mental, emotional and physical state. So, what happens when you stop taking the birth control pill? You’re likely to experience some changes in your body when you start taking the combined pill, from an increase or decrease in acne, to tender breasts, to more or less painful periods. If you do experience these changes after switching to hormonal birth control, you’re likely to experience them when you decide to stop taking the pill, too. You may be surprised to discover what else happens when you stop taking the pill. Dr Albert Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains: “You instantly get pregnant after you stop taking your birth control. There are several other symptoms that you may experience while you wait for the extra oestrogen and progesterone to leave your body. These symptoms usually stop after a few months, but some women may not experience them at all. It’s important to remember that everybody is different, and that genetics, lifestyle and underlying illnesses and disorders may also have an impact on life after the pill. ”With that in mind, let’s take a look at what could be experienced after a woman stops taking... --- Genital lumps can be worrying, but whilst some are harmless, others are certainly a cause for concern. Dr Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre explains: ‘It is quite normal to notice the sebaceous glands on the skin of the genitals. These secrete sebum into the hair follicles to lubricate the skin and hair and are not cause for concern. They are small white/yellow bumps under the surface of the skin and are most commonly seen on the vulva, but are also seen in other areas of the body. ’ It’s also common to get ingrown hairs due to certain hair removal methods. This happens when the hair starts to grow and curl in on itself under the skin instead of breaking through the skin. Ingrown hairs will usually look like a regular spot with a hair inside if you look closely. You can try gently exfoliating or using a hot washcloth to help. To prevent ingrown hairs it’s recommended that you replace your razor head regularly and have a few weeks without shaving to give your skin a rest. You can even change your hair removal method for a while. If you have a genital lump, and you’re uncertain of the cause, it’s always best to get it seen to by your GP or gynaecologist. Genital warts Caused by the virus HPV, genital warts are spread through skin contact. They look similar to the surface of a cauliflower in appearance and frequently appear in patches. Genital warts are... --- After a stressful day at work you’re feeling irritated, worn out, and all you’re dreaming of is getting home and putting your feet up. The last thing on your mind is sex. We’ve all been there. Dr A Aka, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre, explains: ‘Although loss of sex drive is an issue for men, it is more commonly seen women. In fact, it’s much more common than many people realise. But, that doesn’t mean you need to put up with it. It’s normal for one’s sex drive to fluctuate throughout the month to some degree, but it does affect each woman differently. Some may experience a lack of sex drive for a short period of time, whereas others may have it for longer, and struggle with low libido more frequently. Desire for sex is very complex and there are many reasons you may be experiencing this. Whilst often linked to relationship or lifestyle issues, unexpected persistent loss of sex drive can indicate underlying physical issues. ’ What are the symptoms of low libido? The symptoms of a low libido include: Lack of desire Anxiety performing sexual activities Low level of interest in sex Does medication affect libido? Once it has been established that you have a loss of libido it’s important to find out what’s the cause of the problem. Medication comes with many side effects, and surprisingly, it could be that you are taking a certain medication that is having an influence on your sex drive.... --- Over 80% of couples will become pregnant within a year of trying for a baby, but a significant number – 1 in 7 couples – will experience fertility problems; that’s around 3. 5 million people in the UK alone. On average, it takes around nine months for a couple to achieve a pregnancy. Infertility is diagnosed when a couple has been trying to get pregnant for a year without success. But treatment is available to help these couples and individuals overcome any issues and have a successful pregnancy. Here at The Gynae Centre, our highly qualified team is experienced at identifying the cause of fertility problems. What causes infertility in women? Infertility is a complex issue and as such, many factors can influence a woman’s fertility. One of the most common reasons is ovulatory disorders – problems with ovulation. For pregnancy to happen naturally, the ovaries must release the egg which travels down the fallopian tube to be fertilised. But, if ovulation is disrupted or isn’t happening, this can lead to difficulty or a delay in becoming pregnant. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains: ‘Ovulation is triggered by the hormones in the body, and so anything that affects hormones – over-exercising, stress, being over or underweight, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and pituitary gland disorders – can lead to ovulation problems. The main signs of issues with ovulation include no, or irregular, periods. ’Additionally, problems with the fallopian tubes, follicle growth, ovarian reserve, tubal obstruction, immune factors... --- According to new data from Public Health England cases of STIs are on the rise: From 2017-2018 there was a 5% increase in the UK. This is worrying news and there are concerns that people are not getting tested frequently enough – or at all. The report showed that cases of gonorrhoea saw a huge 26% increase. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre says: ‘Many are embarrassed to get an STI check but the reality is that it’s nothing to be ashamed about – STI testing should be a normal part of being sexually active. Sex should be fun and safe for everyone. It’s better to be tested than to be responsible for putting yourself and your partner at risk of contracting an untreatable disease, like HIV. You’d be surprised how many people ignore sexual health screenings because they can’t see any symptoms. ’ Alongside the 5% rise in STI cases in the UK, cases of syphilis in Europe are at an all time high with the UK seeing the steepest rise, according to a report from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Between 2007 and 2017, the number of cases of syphilis have more than doubled. This increase has been reportedly due to men not wearing condoms and an increase in the number of sexual partners. The head of the ECDC programme has commented that there is a clear link between risky sexual behaviour and the rise in syphilis and other STIs. But... --- “Whilst women are confident in their decision to have an abortion, others are unsure and have many questions. ” explains renowned Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre. If you are not 100% – and even if your mind is set – the best thing you can do is to arm yourself with all the information as early as possible to give yourself time to consider everything. Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about abortion rights, pregnancy termination treatments and options. What are my rights on abortion? The Abortion Act 1967 means that any person (which includes women, trans men, and non-binary people) in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) carrying a baby has the right to an abortion up to the 24th week of pregnancy. The week of pregnancy is worked out from the first day of your last menstrual cycle and/or with an ultrasound scan in instances where periods are irregular. How late can you have an abortion? Abortions will also be granted after 24 weeks but only in circumstances where there is a considerable risk to the mother’s life or if there is evidence of a fatal fetal abnormality where the baby will either not survive, or will be born with a severe disability. Is my abortion confidential? Do I have to give my personal details? Any medical service or treatment, including abortion will be 100% confidential and nobody will be told about your abortion without your explicit agreement – that... --- We all know that crows feet, creaky joints and grey hair are a natural part of aging, but what happens to your vagina as you age? Probably more that you’d expect! Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre has more than 30 years of experience and is renowned in the field for his expertise. He says: “It is good for women to be prepared for the changes that happen to the vulva and vagina as they age so they can take the necessary steps to make themselves more comfortable and, in some cases, help to delay or prevent some of the changes that happen with age. ” The menopause commonly begins at around 50 years of age. This is usually preceded by perimenopause, which can start as early as 45 years of age. The perimenopause may be manifested by heavy periods, short cycles or even irregular infrequent long cycles, mood swings, insomnia and irritability. These symptoms are due to fluctuating hormone levels and a decline in the female hormone, estrogen, due to irregular ovulation. You may notice varicose veins: Particularly for women who’ve been pregnant, you may notice varicose veins on the vulva due to weakened vein valves. Muscles supporting the pelvic floor weaken: Muscle wastage naturally happens as we age – and this includes the muscles supporting the pelvic floor. As these muscles weaken women may experience a decrease in pelvic floor strength which supports not only the bladder and uterus, but the bowel too. This... --- “‘Does my vulva look normal? ’ and ‘Do I need a labiaplasty’ are questions I get asked frequently. Many women are particularly concerned about the appearance of their labia minora. Patients have a labiaplasty for either medical or cosmetic reasons. ” says Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre. “The thing is, when it comes to the appearance of the vulva, what’s considered ‘normal’ is very broad. The vulva, which includes the labia minora, comes in a range of different colours, shapes and sizes. “I have treated thousands of patients since I qualified in medicine in 1970 and can strongly attest to the fact that no two women have exactly the same colouring, shape or size of labia. They are as individual as faces. Some labia are short, some are longer – and there’s nothing wrong with any of either. Patients are also often are worried about their labia being different sizes, but almost no body part is entirely symmetrical. However your vulva and labia look, there’s no need to be embarrassed. ” The Great Wall of Vagina is a really great example of the range of variation between different women’s genitalia. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=Ae6fkWd_XRE In most cases, uneven or larger labia are not an issue, however, for some women the excess tissue can lead to pain, chafing and inflammation when they are active or exercising, impacting normal daily activities and quality of life. Additionally, long labia can be the cause of pain during sex as they... --- Are you experiencing either dull or sharp lower abdominal pain? Lower abdominal pain in women, also known as pelvic pain, is often linked to the reproductive system and can be a sign of a debilitating condition. Pelvic pain (below the belly button) is quite common in women and ranges in severity – some may experience sudden, intense pain, others may have chronic pain (which lasts for months). There are numerous causes of this, and it can be linked to many different conditions, some of which we look at. Are you experiencing either dull or sharp lower abdominal pain? Lower abdominal pain in women, also known as pelvic pain, is often linked to the reproductive system and can be a sign of a debilitating condition. Pelvic pain (below the belly button) is quite common in women and ranges in severity – some may experience sudden, intense pain, others may have chronic pain (which lasts for months). There are numerous causes of this, and it can be linked to many different conditions, some of which we look at below. The cause of lower abdominal pain may not always be able to be identified, but broadly speaking the pain falls into one of two categories: Acute and chronic. If you are experiencing either of these you should see your gynaecologist as soon as possible for accurate diagnosis and treatment. They will need to know your medical history, where the pain is, how intense it it, if the pain radiates anywhere else, other symptoms and conditions, when the pain happens and how long it lasts for in order to give an accurate diagnosis. Diagnosing Lower Abdominal Pain In Women Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, says: “Most abdominal pain can be diagnosed by using simple assessments and imaging techniques to eliminate certain diseases and conditions, but it may be necessary to carry out transvaginal ultrasound or laparoscopy for investigations. This minor keyhole surgery is performed through three small incisions in the bikini line and below the belly button. It’s... --- Do I need to see a gynaecologist? When it comes to gynaecological health, women often feel too embarrassed to talk about any issues, and so what could require quick, simple treatment can sometimes develop into something more serious with permanent effects. Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Alex Eskander, here at The Gynae Centre, outlines some of the most common signs you need to see a gynaecologist. 1. You’re bleeding and it’s not normal for you Whether it’s that your periods are heavier than normal, have stopped, or perhaps you’ve started spotting. Each woman’s normal menstrual cycle is individual; some women menstruate lighter, heavier, shorter and longer, others experience spotting as a normal part of their cycle. But if you experience anything that’s not normal for you, it’s important to get seen right away as this could indicate something is wrong. 2. You’ve got lower abdominal pains Whether it’s a dull throbbing or a sharp intense pain, if you are experiencing lower abdominal pain that is different to your usual menstrual cramps then it’s time to visit your gynaecologist. This kind of pain should not be ignored as it could indicate one of a number of serious conditions, such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), endometriosis, ovarian cysts or even appendicitis. 3. You’ve got a new sexual partner STIs like chlamydia can lead to permanent fertility issues if not treated. Most women with a STI won’t experience any symptoms, so if you’re intimate with a new partner we recommend booking in for a mini... --- Women are quite literally dying of embarrassment when it comes to their gynaecological health. Love pocket, vajayjay, muff, beaver, lady garden… whatever you call your genitals, we’ve got to talk about them. No, seriously. Just because it’s awkward to talk about, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be discussing it. Women are quite literally dying of embarrassment when it comes to their gynaecological health. Love pocket, vajayjay, muff, beaver, lady garden... whatever you call your genitals, we’ve got to talk about them. No, seriously. Just because it’s awkward to talk about, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be discussing it. Each year, 21,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with one of the five types of gynaecological cancer (womb cancer, ovarian cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, and cervical cancer). Since the late 1970s womb cancer rates have increased dramatically and by 2030 are set to rise by 56%. Ovarian cancer is the most-deadly, taking the lives of 4,300 women each year in the UK alone. Despite this, more women than ever before are too scared or embarrassed or discussing issues related to their gynaecological health. “There’s a wall of silence around gynaecological health, but it’s far too important to be a taboo – especially in this day and age. ” says Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre. “It’s imperative that women feel able to talk openly and freely with their GP or gynecologist about their health. “We’ve seen thousands of patients over the years and have met many that have felt embarrassed or nervous for a variety of reasons. These are completely valid and natural feelings to have, but women are putting their lives at risk by not talking about their gynaecological health. As a society we should be openly talking about the importance of it to help break... --- “Can birth control cause infertility? ” “Can birth control harm your fertility? ” “Can hormonal contraception keep you from getting pregnant in the future? ” Here at The Gynae Centre in London we frequently see patients that have been using hormonal contraceptives for years but are ready to start a family. They often have concerns about their use of birth control and infertility. It’s no surprise that women trying to get pregnant worry about this – there are many stories floating around the internet about fertility being reduced after long-term use of contraceptives. However, contrary to the popular myth, Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains that birth control does not have any lasting effect on fertility levels. “Online articles can be misleading and can leave you feeling apprehensive when there is no need to be. Much research has been carried out into the effect of hormonal contraceptives and whether birth control can harm your fertility. The overwhelming conclusion is that it has no adverse effect on your fertility, but there are a few things that you should bear in mind. ” DID YOU KNOW? The combined pill has many benefits but does also come with risks; it has been linked to increased risk of depression, blood clots, thrombosis and breast cancer. Before we go into this, it’s important to understand how the menstrual cycle works, as it is this which allows a woman to conceive. Below we have simplified the 28 day menstrual cycle. For women... --- Got an itch you just can’t seem to scratch? There’s no need to be embarrassed, vaginal itching is far more common that many realise. Most women will experience it at some point in their lives and it can cause much discomfort. This being said, feminine itching could be a sign of an underlying issue. Firstly, is it normal to have an itchy vagina? It’s possible that some women may experience a slight temporary irritation due to changes in hormones in the body at certain times of the month, but generally speaking, no, it’s not normal to have an itchy vagina or vaginal irritation. According to Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre in London: “Vaginal itching will not usually go away by itself and will require intervention. Causes of vaginal itching, burning, and irritation can be varied. Some of the most common causes of vaginal itching we see at the clinic include vaginal candidiasis – more commonly known as a yeast infection or thrush – reactions to feminine hygiene products, and STDs. Even if you think you know what might be causing it, it’s important to get checked out by your GP or gynaecologist to ensure it’s nothing more sinister. ” The Gynae Centre is based just off Harley Street and provides completely confidential appointments. You can expect the very highest standards of care and a compassionate team who will put you at ease. You can now book a consultation with a gynaecologist online using our quick and... --- What does an abnormal smear mean? Are abnormal smear results common? What causes an abnormal smear? Do abnormal cells always mean cancer? These are just some of the questions that Consultant Gynaecologist, Dr Alex Eskander and The Gynae Centre team get asked when it comes to smear test results. If you’ve had a letter telling you that your smear test has shown abnormal cells, don’t panic, says Dr Eskander: “Smear tests do not look for the presence of cancer – they look for precancerous abnormalities in the cells that could potentially develop into cancer if left untreated. So, if you’ve had an abnormal smear result, it doesn’t mean that you have cancer. “However, that being said, it is recommended that further investigation using colposcopy is booked in as soon as possible. Understandably, abnormal smear results create anxiety in patients so at The Gynae Centre we offer appointments within 48 hours for peace of mind if your smear results show mild, moderate or severe abnormalities. ” If you have abnormal results, you’ll either have: Borderline or mild (low-grade) abnormalities: This means that there are some slightly abnormal changes to the cells. Your sample will be tested for HPV, and if not found, you’ll return in another 3-5 years for your next screening. If HPV is found, you’ll need to book in for a colposcopy so your gynaecologist can have a closer look at the cells on the cervix. Moderate/severe (high-grade) abnormalities: This is when there are highly abnormal changes to the... --- Planning on starting a family one day? As many as one in six couples in the UK experience fertility problems. There are often early signs of infertility in women that can signify something might be wrong. However, often couples will only start looking at potential fertility issues after they have been trying to get pregnant for 12 months or more. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), ovulation disorders, issues with follicle growth, tubal obstruction, uterine factors and immune factors can all cause problems when it comes to conceiving. Whilst it’s commonly known that STIs are prevalent in this day and age, particularly in and around the London area, what is less well known is that these can cause permanent damage to your reproductive system if not treated. You can read more about the first signs of an STI in our last blog post. The good news is that some conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis do display symptoms, so it is possible to recognise early signs of infertility in women – or signs that something may be amiss – before you even start trying to conceive. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre explains: “If you’re not currently thinking about having children, but may want them in the future, it’s advisable to get a handle your reproductive health early on. If left untreated, as well as hindering fertility, conditions like PCOS can lead to type 2 diabetes and endometriosis can cause irreversible damage to your pelvic area. “The... --- We look to celebrities to give us pointers for all kind of things; style, beauty products, even where to travel. But it seems that celebrities just don’t hit the spot when it comes to vaginal health tips. In fact, it would be wiser to just stay away from their advice. Maybe celebrities think that courting controversy will win over some of their fans (maybe it does), but when it comes to vagina health do we really need to be controversial? Isn’t healthy a better idea? Maybe some people get caught up in following fads that they believe are good for their feminine hygiene, but most of the time these vagina tips are just myths; they’re misleading and causing more harm than good. The Best Vagina Advice There are very few things that should ever enter a vagina; a couple of body parts, maybe a sanitary product, and that’s about it! Your vagina is an incredible organ, not unlike your bowel. And because it’s an internal organ that is exposed to the outside world (in parts), it has its own very clever ecosystem that ensures it self-cleans and protects itself from harm. The vagina is lined with a mucous membrane and has a crowd of mixed healthy bacteria to protect itself against infection. And in much the same way that any suggestion of spritzing your womb with pineapple, douching or steaming it, covering it in oil or coating it in sugar (what? ) would be appalling, the same should be said... --- Have you ever wondered about the first signs of an STI? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent, especially in London – they can be passed on to partners through oral sex, genital touching, anal or vaginal sex, and they can affect you whether you are married, single, gay or straight. Have you ever wondered about the first signs of an STI? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are prevalent, especially in London – they can be passed on to partners through oral sex, genital touching, anal or vaginal sex, and they can affect you whether you are married, single, gay or straight. “People assume they will know if they have an STI because they will see symptoms, but the reality is that 50% of men and 70% of women will not experience any symptoms at all. ” explains Dr Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre. “It only takes the one encounter. Now, more than ever before, regular sexual health checks should be carried out for anyone who is sexually active. ” Although using condoms can help to reduce the spread of STIs through genital fluids, they do not offer protection 100% of the time and don’t provide protection against any sores or infected skin that is not covered by the condom. Most of the time, if caught early, STIs are relatively easy to treat and cure with the use of antibiotics. However, when left untreated for a long period of time, can lead to serious complications, including fertility problems. How Do I Know If I Have An STI? Without a sexual health check, you cannot be certain that you do or don’t have an STI. You could have no symptoms at all but have a number of STIs. The best thing you can do is to regularly get checked –... --- Research shows that nearly one in ten women in Britain experience pain during sex. That's a few too many for our liking. In this article we ask: Why does sex hurt? Research shows that nearly one in ten women in Britain experience pain during sex. In this article we ask: Why does sex hurt? Do you experience pain when having sex? Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) is classified as a persistent pain before, during or after penetrative sex, and can have a huge impact on a woman’s life. “Talking about your sex life can feel embarrassing – even with your doctor or gynaecologist, but dyspareunia is more common than you may think, and it’s often caused by an issue which is easily treated. ” explains Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre. Over the years Dr Eskander has successfully treated many patients who’ve been experiencing pain when having sex. “It’s important to understand that it’s not normal to experience pain during sex. There’s no need to suffer in silence, either; if you are experiencing persistent pain at any point during intercourse, you should see your GP or gynaecologist as soon as possible to get a diagnosis. ” Is painful sex normal? The answer to this question is firm no. It is not normal to experience pain during intercourse. The sad fact of the matter is that many women do experience this and have resigned themselves to believing that they will not enjoy sex again. Thankfully, treatment is usually quick, simple and effective. Why does sex hurt? Dyspareunia can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from physical to psychological concerns. Treatment involves getting to the heart of the problem, getting... --- Many wonder about why you should see a private gynaecologist and what makes a private gynaecology appointment different. Is it worth it? We believe there are many benefits to seeing a private gynaecologist; you can expect high quality patient-centred care; clinical excellence; exceptional facilities; feel confident in the knowledge that you are seeing a consultant who specialises in women’s health. And that’s just to start. Whether you need a smear test, have concerns about your gynaecological health, need minor surgery or an abortion, a private gynaecology clinic will offer the following benefits: 1. Longer opening hours We all lead busy lives and sometimes trying to fit in an appointment during your work day between 9am and 5pm just isn’t convenient. Visiting a private gynaecology clinic can allow you to make an appointment that’s convenient for you. 2. Faster access to appointments and reduced waiting times When you’re concerned about an issue with your health the last thing you want to do is wait weeks for an appointment. Visiting a private gynaecologist means that you’ll often get seen quicker and at a time that suits you. Here at The Gynae Centre we even offer same day appointments for peace of mind. 3. Longer appointments There is no need to squeeze everything you want to speak about into a rushed 10 minute time slot. If you book in with a private gynaecologist you can take the time to explain your concerns, have an examination (if necessary), diagnosis, and discuss any treatment. There... --- Considering abortion options is not something most women ever wish to undertake. However, around 185,000 women, aged between 15-44, have an abortion in the UK each year. For many it’s a difficult and emotionally fraught decision. Therefore, it’s important that once the decision to have an abortion has been made you have the right information and access to the best care possible. Knowing what termination options are best for you will ensure that you make the right choices during a difficult time. There are two types of abortion; medical abortion with pill and surgical abortion. At the Gynae Centre we can administer both procedures. Ultimately it depends on which is best for you. The main differences are the time at which each procedure can be administered in relation to the length of pregnancy, the method of treatment and the invasiveness of each treatment option. In order to help you consider your options, we have put together the main facts you need to know about each procedure. Surgical Abortion Surgical abortion is a very simple and safe operation which can be administered up to 24 weeks gestation (as per UK law). Depending on the length of your pregnancy, and according to your preference, you will be offered either local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia. The most common request is for the procedure to be carried out under local anaesthesia and this is most advisable before 10 weeks’ gestation and under sedation after. “Although this termination is ‘surgical’, there are no cuts... --- Trying to navigate early pregnancy can be a stressful time; there are lots to things to think about and consider, one of which is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT). You may be asking What is NIPT? Which NIPT test is best? Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist here at The Gynae Centre, explains everything you need to know about NIPT. What Is The NIPT Test For? NIPT is an alternative, added screening for chromosomal abnormalities to give you peace of mind. NIPT screens your unborn baby for common genetic problems, including Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13). Down’s Syndrome is a congenital disease which arises from a chromosome defect. It can create severe learning difficulties, and is linked to vision and hearing issues, as well as heart problems. Is The NIPT Test Accurate? Traditionally a blood test, combined with the nuchal translucency scan at 12 weeks, is used to look at the nose bone and skin fold at the back of the baby’s neck in order to ascertain any abnormalities. This method is 92% accurate, but still leaves margin for error. “NIPT testing offers a considerably higher degree of certainty – more than 99% accuracy when screening for Down’s Syndrome. Although not 100% conclusive, it reduces the need for more invasive, higher risk testing,” explains Dr Eskander. The only way to be certain of any chromosomal defects is to undergo an invasive procedure like Amniocentesis which withdraws some of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the... --- What Is Endometriosis? There are around 200 different types of cells within the human body, each designed to perform their own jobs. The cells lining your uterus are designed to build up every month in preparation for egg fertilisation, and break down when your eggs have not been fertilised by sperm. This is why you bleed during a menstrual cycle. However, endometriosis is a condition where those same cells appear in other parts of the body, often around the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Even though these cells are outside the uterus, they still perform the same job. This means that they build up and break down during a menstrual cycle. But unlike cells inside the uterus, the blood produced when these cells break down has nowhere to escape, leaving you with painful or heavy periods. What Causes Endometriosis? There is no confirmed cause of endometriosis yet. However, there are several theories. For example: Metaplasia – this is when a cell changes from one type into another. This is normal for certain types of cells, for example when cartilage turns into bone. However, scientists have proposed that cells in an embryo may morph into endometrial cells whilst the baby’s uterus is first forming. Retrograde Menstruation – most women will experience a ‘backing up’ of the tissue discarded from the uterus during a period. This is known as retrograde menstruation. Usually, the body is able to clear out this tissue, but it has been suggested that in some cases it attaches... --- This month is stress awareness month and whilst the mental health aspect of stress is well documented, sometimes we neglect to talk about the physical effects of stress on women’s health – particularly the female reproductive system. If 2019 has been a stressful year for you so far, you are not alone. Almost every section of society (children, students, teachers, workers, both men and women, young and old) has made the headlines because of the ‘stress epidemic’ that has gripped our nation and the world. Today, it is estimated that one in six people have experienced a mental health issue in the last week1 and that one in three sick notes handed out by doctors are for mental health problems2. Stress can create hormonal imbalances, which over extended periods of time can wreak havoc on a woman’s general health. In addition, there are certain times of life when female hormones are under duress naturally, such as at childbirth or during puberty, and the menopause. At these times, it’s easy to become trapped in a cycle of stress events and triggers that leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Dr Alex Eskander, Consultant Gynaecologist at The Gynae Centre, explains: “Women today have specific challenges that they face at home, at work and in society. Being in control and creating ‘successful’ lives, children and careers is becoming more demanding of their time and energy. Whilst increasingly both women and men are experiencing stress, women tend to present with more physical symptoms than men.... --- For women who haven’t yet had their first cervical smear test, the idea can be daunting and even a little scary. Here, we look at what having a smear test is really like. It’s not usually a hot topic for conversation and the idea of having the procedure leaves most women feeling clammy and nervous. The truth is, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who looks forward to undressing in front of a relative stranger to have a physical examination. However, worrying about having the test (or worse, avoiding it) pales into insignificance when you think about the health implications of not having a smear test. Cervical screening saves 5,000 lives every year. Having regular cervical screening gives you the best protection against developing cervical cancer1. What Is A Smear Test? A smear test takes just three minutes. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie on a bed with legs bent, ankles together and knees apart. A speculum is inserted into the vagina and cells collected from around the cervix. These cells are sent to the lab for investigation. Between 90-94% of test results come back negative. Around one in twenty will come back ‘abnormal’, but this does not mean you have cancer. Some abnormal results indicate low grade changes which often return to normal of their own accord. However, further investigation of an abnormal result is standard2. As with everything sexual health related, unfortunately myths and tall tales proliferate, often providing people with... --- What is the menopause and can you really prepare for it? Here, we take a look at the symptoms you can expect from menopause, and explain how you can better prepare yourself for it. What is the menopause, and explain how you can better prepare yourself for it. Birth control, starting a family, the menopause; they’re all topics that are swept under the carpet, until they’re staring you in the face. Are we too embarrassed to talk? Is there some kind of social stigma attached to being open about our sexual health and wellbeing? So many women experience the heartache of fertility issues because, in our youth, the emphasis is placed on how not to get pregnant. And so too with the menopause. One day you feel fine, the next you’re melting in the middle of winter and wondering why you have the onset of adult acne! And what did we do to prepare? What questions did we ask? Likely, nothing and none. Now is a good time to start the conversation about menopause. The new TV show Girlfriends will bring welcome media coverage to the condition by featuring characters dealing with the issues surrounding menopause. In addition, Michelle Heaton is set to publish her menopause memoir Hot Flush in the spring. What Is The Menopause? The menopause affects around 13 million women at any one time in the UK1 and comes in three phases: perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. Women are likely to start experiencing symptoms of perimenopause after the age of 40, whilst the average age for menopause is 512. Menopause is the 12-month period in time after a woman stops menstruating. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) are no longer able... --- Does stress affect fertility and if so, how? We sat down with Dr Alex Eskander, Director of The Gynae Centre and Co-Director of London’s leading IVF clinic The Fertility and Gynaecology Academy, to find out. ‘The problem with this topic is,’ Dr Eskander said, ‘that saying to a woman who desperately wants to get pregnant “don’t stress out” is no real help. Add to that the idea that stress can actually have a negative effect on fertility and you have a recipe for couples who are stressing out about stressing out. Nonetheless, the topic does need to be tackled because there are things couples can do to decrease stress levels that may help with the process. ’What Does The Science Say? ‘The short answer is, it’s still complicated, and there’s a lot more research to be done,’ Dr Eskander told us. A number of studies have demonstrated a possible link between stress and issues with conception but scientists have not been sure of the direction of this relationship; in other words, whether stress is affecting these couples’ fertility, or simply whether problems conceiving are causing extra stress. 1A widely reported 2014 study discovered that high stress levels (as determined by the alpha-amylase levels in a woman’s saliva) were linked to a longer time to pregnancy. The researchers also found an association between elevated alpha amylase levels and a higher chance of no conception within a year of regular unprotected intercourse. 2 However, stress levels were only measured twice throughout the... --- The Sling the Mesh campaign has hit the headlines recently, revealing that many women who have undergone pelvic organ prolapse surgery have experienced life-changing complications from synthetic vaginal mesh. Can self-care help keep surgery at bay? London’s leading gynaecologist and Director of The Gynae Centre, Dr Alex Eskander, tells us more about looking after your pelvic floor. What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)? ‘Pelvic organ prolapse refers to the protruding of one or more of the pelvic organs (the uterus, bowel, vagina or bladder) down into the vagina,’ Dr Eskander said. ‘Usually these organs are held in place and reinforced by the pelvic floor muscles. When these muscles become weaker, the pelvic organs can droop and protrude from the vagina. ’ Symptoms Of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Include: Discomfort during intercourse Problems with urination, for example: feeling as though you aren’t emptying your bladder properly; a slow stream; needing to urinate more frequently; leaking a little urine during exercise or when coughing or sneezing (what is known as stress incontinence) Experiencing a bulging feeling or as though something is coming down or out of the vagina. Pelvic pain or discomfort Constipation How Common Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse? Pelvic organ prolapse is surprisingly common, affecting about 1 in 12 British women. 1 It is particularly prevalent in postmenopausal women who have had children, but it can affect younger women who have not had children. 2 3 4 What About Surgery? Every year, thousands of women in the UK receive surgery for pelvic... --- You’ve probably never heard of it – and yet you may well know a woman affected by it. Vulvodynia is a condition that can be life-changing, and yet many women struggle to talk about it even with their closest friends and family. Until very recently it had no name, and many doctors did not take it seriously. Countless women are still suffering without a diagnosis. Dr Alex Eskander, one of the UK’s most esteemed gynaecologists and Director of London’s leading clinic The Gynae Centre, tells us more about this hidden problem. What Is Vulvodynia And What Are The Symptoms? Vulvodynia is a syndrome of persistent pain of the vulva without any obvious infection or skin condition. 1 The pain can be a sore, stinging or burning feeling. It affects the external female genitals (the vulva) which can encompass the clitoris, vaginal opening and the labia. In some cases the pain can even spread to the inner thighs and the buttocks. Usually when a woman has vulvodynia the vulva will remain normal-looking. Vulvodynia has two key subtypes:Generalised Vulvodynia refers to discomfort in various parts of the vulva at different times. The pain may be continuous or sporadic, and may or may not be brought on by pressure or touch. Either way, touch or pressure may worsen the pain. Localised Vulvodynia is the classification for discomfort in one vulval area. It is frequently characterised by a burning sensation and is often prompted by pressure or touch – for example long periods of... --- If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering a termination, it is likely you will want to know what to expect if you have a medical abortion. The decision to terminate a pregnancy can arise for a number of reasons and is almost never taken lightly. Often it is due to a woman simply not being ready for motherhood, or because of foetal abnormality. Ultimately, every woman’s circumstances are unique and it is crucial to remember that the choice is yours to make. It is also vital to seek the finest medical help. Unfortunately all sorts of dangerous shortcuts abound online such as unprescribed ‘abortion pills’. It is imperative to avoid these quick fixes and to ensure you get thorough checks and medical history reviews before any termination. There are two kinds of abortion; medical abortion using pills, and surgical abortion. Here at The Gynae Centre we can administer both, but in early pregnancy many women prefer medical abortion because it is non-invasive. We perform medical abortion from 6-9 weeks of pregnancy. What does medical abortion involve? Medical abortion, or early abortion, involves taking two sets of oral tablets over two clinic visits. Your first visit In your first visit here at The Gynae Centre you’ll have a meeting with a consultant obstetrician-gynaecologist who will talk you through all you need to know about medical abortion. In addition: You will have an ultrasound scan to confirm your pregnancy and how many weeks along it is. Your medical history will... --- If you’re trying for a baby and it’s taking longer than expected, there may be a number of worries that spring to mind. For example, if you’re in your thirties, you might be quick to wonder about the ‘biological clock’. Valid questions to ask and perhaps you might want to consider a fertility check. But there’s one thing you may not have considered, and it could be crucial. Could You Have A Hidden Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)? We know what you’re thinking – that’s crazy. You and your partner have been together for years, and neither of you has any symptoms. But unfortunately, two of the STIs most likely to disrupt your fertility – chlamydia and gonorrhoea – often have no symptoms and can go undetected for years. What’s more, these two culprits are among the most commonplace STIs. In fact sexually transmitted infections are surprisingly common and can still affect people who’ve had very few partners. How Do STIs Affect Fertility? STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea can affect the fertility of both women and men. If they go untreated, these infections can lead to epididymitis in men, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women. PID can cause fallopian tube scarring, which can create blockages and prevent conception. Some research indicates that up to 25% of infertility cases are related to past or present sexually transmitted infection. Don’t despair though. Thankfully, both chlamydia and gonorrhoea are easily treated with antibiotics. If diagnosed early, they shouldn’t cause any major problems. This... --- The cervix is a cylindrical shaped passage, around two to three centimetres long that connects the uterus to the vagina. The cervix has three skin layers or ‘zones’. It is the top layer of skin that is tested for abnormal cells during a smear test. HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a common virus amongst sexually active adults. Most likely you will not be aware that you have the virus and usually the immune system will get rid of it naturally. However, sometimes HPV can cause changes to the nature of the cells in the cervix, creating abnormal cells. If left unchecked these abnormal cells can become cancerous. What Is Cervical Cancer? Every year in the UK, over 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women aged 35 and under. Almost all cervical cancer is caused by the HPV virus. There are over 100 different strains of HPV, two of these are known to cause over 70% of all cervical cancers. Even though most cases of HPV are dealt with by your own immune system, HPV can last in the body for years. It can take a considerable amount of time, then, for cells to mutate. It’s important to note that most cases of HPV do not result in cancer. Can I Prevent Cervical Cancer? Cervical cancer can be hard to detect outside of your regular screening. That’s why it’s important to look after your general health, have regular pap (smear) tests... --- It’s the most natural thing in the world and yet for women with vaginismus, sex is so painful it becomes impossible. To make matters worse, many women who have this condition don’t have a name for it. It’s just an unbearable pain and a feeling of dread that increases with every attempt to overcome it. What Is Vaginismus? In vaginismus, a woman’s vagina muscles contract involuntarily in response to physical contact in the vaginal area. Indeed often vaginismus sufferers find it impossible even to use tampons. Dr Eskander, one of the UK’s leading gynaecologists and director of the The Gynae Centre tells us: “Here at the clinic, we’ve met vaginismus sufferers who had actually come to accept that they would never have sex, perhaps never get married. It really is impossible to overestimate how much of an effect it can have on a woman’s life. ”One of Dr Eskander's own patients has written about her experience of vaginismus and how botox has helped her to have sex, over at Cosmopolitan. All In The Mind? Dr Eskander says: “Part of the problem for women with vaginismus is they frequently feel that the condition is somehow their fault, which is obviously not true at all. “And indeed often doctors can find no basis for the problem. Women with vaginismus may have no history of trauma to explain it. We frequently hear women say: ‘No one knew what to do about it. I was told it was all in the mind. ’“Often by... --- What’s that itching? Oh no, it’s a yeast infection... The majority of women will experience this uncomfortable problem at some point in their lives. But did you know that yeast infections can be more than just bad luck, particularly if you seem to be getting them repeatedly? Dr Eskander, renowned gynaecologist and director of The Gynae Centre, explains some of these hidden villains... 1. Eating Too Much Sugar Don’t shoot the messenger, but spikes in your blood sugar can provide a fertile breeding ground for yeast. Obvious culprits for blood sugar hikes are our favourite ice creams and cakes, but did you know that many things that seem virtuous (like fruit or pure fruit juices, for example) are actually full of natural sugars? Add caffeine into the mix with them and your blood sugar does a dance, particularly in the morning when your levels tend to be low to begin with. So you might want to rethink that double shot espresso with frosted flakes for breakfast... 2. Pantyliners Wearing pantyliners every day in the hopes of having ‘flawless’ underwear, is actually totally self-defeating. Dr Eskander explains: “Pantyliners are made of synthetic materials that restrict air flow, creating a hospitable environment for yeast. They also tend to cause irritation, reducing your skin’s immunity to infection. ” 3. Not Changing Your Tampon Often Enough “Yeast thrives in environments with a lot of moisture,” Dr Eskander explains. “Tampons and sanitary pads obviously hold moisture, so it’s best to change them often, especially in... --- If you are a woman approaching the menopause, it can be a frightening time. Watching your periods ebb away and beginning to experience unpleasant symptoms, you may not know where to turn. There are all sorts of conflicting advice and scary headlines around concerning Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that can create a lot of confusion. So is HRT right for you? One of the UK’s eminent gynaecologists and director of the prestigious The Gynae Centre, Dr Alex Eskander, gives a helpful overview. What is Hormone Replacement Therapy? During the menopause, as your periods cease, your hormone levels decrease. This fall in hormone levels creates unpleasant symptoms such as sleep disturbances, hot flashes, mood swings and vaginal dryness – and sometimes even problems such as osteoporosis. Hormone Replacement Therapy (also known as HRT, oestrogen replacement therapy and menopausal hormone therapy) is the use of female hormones – progesterone and oestrogen – to treat the symptoms of the menopause. Hormone replacement therapy substitutes the hormones no longer naturally produced by your body. What Are The Benefits Of HRT? Decades of HRT prescription and research have shown HRT to be the most effective intervention for the symptoms of the menopause1. It helps to relieve uncomfortable and disrupting symptoms such as hot flashes, disturbed sleep, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy. HRT can also help to guard against some of the other side effects from a loss of oestrogen, such as osteoporosis. What Are The Risks Of HRT? The data in... --- When it comes to our lady gardens, knowledge is power. Knowing what to watch for can help you spot warning signs and keep your nether region healthy. But when is lots of information too much information? In our share-happy social media culture, many bogus tips have grown wings – and some are downright harmful. So how to separate hype from healthy advice? One of the UK’s most eminent gynaecologists, The Gynae Centre’s Dr Eskander, talks us through it. Vaginal steaming Gwyneth Paltrow is the woman gynaecologists love to hate, and it’s not hard to see why. Vaginal steaming has been around for centuries, but the actress-turned-lifestyle-guru took it mainstream-ish a while back. Essentially the process is a bit like a sauna for your lady garden. Clients sit on a hollow stool, under which is a container of steaming water filled with herbs like rosemary, mugwort and basil1. Fans of the practice have claimed it can ‘cleanse your womb’ and ‘balance your hormones’. But what does the science say? ‘The vagina and the uterus have their own “good” bacteria that actually help to protect against infection. I would not advise trying to mess around with your vaginal pH,’ explains Dr Eskander. ‘Plus, with steaming, there is a risk of intravaginal burns. ’ And the claim about balancing hormones? ‘For women suffering hormonal imbalances, there are treatments we can use that are proven to help, but they don’t include a bowl full of steam and herbs. ’ In short, don’t bother, girls.... --- Have you noticed any of these? Yes, talking about ‘down there’ and getting checked is embarrassing. So embarrassing that research shows one in three women are missing their smear tests with deadly consequences. Have you noticed any of these? Yes, talking about ‘down there’ and getting checked is embarrassing. So embarrassing that research shows one in three women are missing their smear tests1 ... with deadly consequences. Every year thousands of British women are diagnosed with cervical cancer; hundreds die – and that’s only one of the problems we should be watching for2. There are many other gynaecological disorders that can have devastating consequences if left unchecked. So here at The Gynae Centre we’ve put together a list of the top 5 symptoms of gynaecological disorders. Do not ignore these red flags – your health is too precious. If in doubt, book an appointment. 1. Abnormal vaginal dischargeFirst of all, sticky, white discharge between your monthly periods is natural and normal. It serves to clean your vagina and protect against genital infections. Pregnant or breastfeeding women may also notice more discharge. However, if you experience vaginal discharge with an unusual colour or strange odour, it could signal a problem. This discharge may occur repeatedly at any time or you might notice it after sex. Scented soaps, bubble baths, creams, lotions or douches can irritate some women’s vaginas. If you use them and are noticing abnormal discharge, you could try stopping to see if the symptoms disappear. Cervical cancer, chlamydia, bacterial infections, gonorrhoea, complications from abortion and vaginitis are the most common causes of unusual vaginal discharge. Early detection is crucial, so if in doubt, get it checked out! 2. Vaginal bleedingIt’s possible for... --- ---