A visit to the gynaecologist can be a daunting task that many women tend to put off for fear of embarrassment and judgement, but it is a crucial component of a woman’s wellbeing. Knowing what to expect at the gynaecologist, whether it’s your first visit or you’ve visited multiple times, can help alleviate fears, make the visit more manageable, informative and empowering.

What kind of services does a gynaecologist offer?

Gynaecologist doctors specialize in the female reproductive system, which includes the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries and vagina, but can also oversee general health checks, including breast cancer screening.

• Diagnose and treat conditions related to the female reproductive system including menstrual conditions, abnormal vaginal discharges, etc.

• Diagnose and manage conditions related to sexual health such as loss of desire, painful sexual intercourse, etc

• Preventative care with cervical screening including pap smears, as early detection leads to better treatment outcomes

• Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Ultrasound scans of the female reproductive system

• Fertility treatments including diagnosing and managing subfertility

• Prenatal counselling and pregnancy testing

• Antenatal pregnancy

• Sexual and reproductive health counselling including safe sex practices

• Contraceptive counselling and services

• Menopausal diagnosis and treatment

• Hormonal imbalance diagnosis and treatment

• General health checks

What to expect when meeting a gynaecologist

After making an appointment to meet a gynaecologist, they will initially ask a series of questions to thoroughly understand your medical concerns and your past medical/gynaecological history.

Based on your concerns and the medical history, the gynaecologist may recommend some examinations and investigations. General examinations include checking height, weight and blood pressure. Before doing any intimate examinations or investigations, the doctor will ask you for consent. Whilst these procedures can be uncomfortable, they should not be painful and it is important you inform your doctor if you feel any pain at any point of the procedure.

Some common gynaecological examinations include:

• Pelvic examination – To check for abnormalities of the external genitalia (vulva) and vaginal cavity, it is required to undress from the waist down, lie on your back with your knees bent and then spread your knees apart. The doctor will inspect the external genitalia and then gently insert 2 fingers into the vagina to check for any tenderness or abnormal growths from adjacent structures such as the ovaries or uterus.

• Speculum examination – A small hollow device known as a speculum is inserted into the vagina to open the vagina, enabling the doctor to directly visualize the vagina and cervix (the entrance to the uterus). Samples can then be taken from the vaginal cavity or cervix (using swabs or brushes) for STI testing or cervical screening.

Some common gynaecological investigations include:

• Ultrasound scan of the pelvis                                                      

• Transvaginal ultrasound scan                                        

• Pap smear screening                                         

• Vaginal Swabs                                                             

Here are a few tips to ensure you have a good visit:

• Write down any questions or concerns you have and take it with you to the appointment

• Be frank and honest about your past medical, past gynaecological and sexual history.

• Relax by taking a few deep breaths to calm your nerves

Gynaecological services can be obtained in both the private and government healthcare sector of Sri Lanka, and at certain Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), such as the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka. Services are free in the government healthcare sector but will be at a cost in the private healthcare sector and at a subsidized cost at NGOs.

Gynaecological services are an important component to maintain your reproductive health and should not be delayed. By understanding what to expect and preparing for the visit, you can make the experience more comfortable and empowering.

For further information of gynaecological services available and for advice on Women’s Health conditions, please contact The Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka at on 0112 555 455 / 077 955 2979 or visit the Centre for Family Health at 37/27, Bullers Lane, Colombo-07.