Discover the different gynaecological surgeries, procedures and treatment options available…
Ablation of endometriosis
This is a surgical procedure to remove the womb, and is used to treat conditions such as fibroids, intractable heavy periods not responding to medical treatment or Mirena Coil, or endometrial ablation.
Hysteroscopic sterilisation
In this surgical procedure, implants are inserted into the patient’s fallopian tubes, causing them to form scar tissue, and eventually to block.
Private hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is a procedure in which a narrow tube with a telescope at the end called a hysteroscope is inserted into the uterus, sending images to a computer to give a close-up of the womb. This helps with diagnosis in cases where the patient is experiencing a range of issues, including pelvic pain and infertility. Hysteroscopy can also be used to remove fibroids.
Labial surgery (non-cosmetic)
Labial surgery, or labiaplasty, is a surgical procedure to alter the folds of skin surrounding the external female genitalia.
Marsupialisation of cysts
This surgical technique involves cutting a slit into a cyst and suturing the edges so the site remains open and can freely drain.
Menstrual disorders
Surgical procedures may include: insertion of Mirena coil, hysteroscopy (an endoscopic examination of the uterus, or endometrial ablation (where the lining of the Uterus is destroyed using heat which is delivered through a microwave energy probe), or if all other interventions have failed, hysterectomy, (where the uterus is removed).
Excision of vulval perineal lesions
Lesions around the female genitalia can occur at different stages of life and be caused by different conditions from cysts to infections and even cancer. A visit to your GP for tests will help to determine the cause and arrange treatment.
What is gynaecology?
Gynaecology is the area of medicine that involves the treatment of women's diseases - specifically located in the reproductive organs. It covers a broad range, from gynaecological oncology to rectum, bladder, and urethra issues.
Gynaecological conditions
Gynaecology encompasses conditions including:
cervical or ovarian cancer
endometriosis and fibroids
menopause
uterine prolapse
heavy menstrual bleeding
treatment of ovarian cysts.
Symptoms
The symptoms of gynaecological problems differ depending on the specific issue. General symptoms to look out for that could indicate gynaecological problems include:
frequent urge to urinate or a burning sensation when urinating
abnormal vaginal bleeding or bleeding between periods
bleeding after menopause
redness, swelling, or itching in the vaginal area
sores or lumps in the vaginal area
increased or abnormal vaginal discharge.
Diagnosis and tests
The process of diagnosing a gynaecological issue depends on the specific symptoms. A doctor may use a range of tests or scans in order to identify the root of the problem before a treatment plan can be devised.
When to seek treatment
If you experience any of the symptoms listed in the symptoms section, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What happens at a private gynaecology appointment?
During the appointment, the consultant will enquire about the patient’s history. Depending on the circumstances, the patient may need a physical examination. A treatment plan will then be devised and all necessary investigations arranged to suit the patient.
Benefits and success rates of gynaecological operations
Among the benefits of gynaecological surgery are:
reduced bleeding
absence of soreness, itchiness, and swelling
reduced pain
improved quality of life and wellbeing.
Risks and complications of gynaecological procedures
While the possibility of experiencing complications following gynaecological surgery is low, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk. The most common complication following gynaecological procedures is infection. These can include sepsis and pneumonia.
What to expect
Below, we explore what to expect at each stage of the gynaecological treatment process.
Preparing for surgery
Preparation for surgery depends on the procedure the patient is having. In general terms, be sure to have a bath or shower before surgery. Patients should also ensure they:
remove any body piercings
eat healthy foods such as fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and meat
reduce or stop smoking
stay well hydrated
avoid overexertion
get plenty of rest.
Unless advised otherwise, patients should continue to take their regular medications (if applicable). Patients should arrange post-surgery help around the house and with chores. This can be from friends and family.
During the procedure
The type of procedure will determine whether the patient has local, general, or no anaesthetic at all. Under general anaesthetic and deep sedation, the patient is not aware of the procedure taking place. Under a local anaesthesia or without any anaesthesia at all, the surgeon usually takes the patient through the procedure (if they wish to be informed). The assistant or a member of the theatre team will be on hand to offer support throughout the surgery.
Recovery
After surgery, the patient is taken to the Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU). The nursing team monitors their vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiratory rate, alertness, pain or discomfort) and administers any medications that are required. Day case patients are discharged home (if fit for discharge). In-patients are taken to the ward.
After discharge, specific instructions are provided by the surgeon and physiotherapist. These need to be followed carefully to encourage proper recovery. Patients may be advised to stay mobile to prevent DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and embolism. Patients will likely be told to avoid activities such as heavy lifting in case of prolapse surgery.
Patients recover at different rates, depending on a number of factors. In general, patients should expect to be fully recovered within a few months depending on the type of procedure that was carried out.
Meet gynaecology consultants
At Practice Plus Group, you can choose an experienced consultant to support you throughout your time with us, ensuring you receive first-class, high quality care.
The cost of gynaecology procedures in the UK depends on the type of treatment needed. For example, a hysterectomy with Circle Health Group starts from £8,985, while ovary removal costs around £7,225.
At Practice Plus Group, the same two procedures are much less expensive. A vaginal hysterectomy costs £6,299, which is £2,986 cheaper, while ovary removal surgery costs £5,349. This represents a saving of £2,126.
How much is a gynaecology consultation?
On average, it costs between £200-300 to see a gynaecology consultant privately in the UK.
At Practice Plus Group, it costs just £95 for a consultation with a specialist. This covers the cost of any tests conducted by a nurse. Please note that any scans needed to diagnose the issue will incur an extra fee.
Ways to pay
There are 3 ways to access gynaecology specialists at Practice Plus Group:
At Practice Plus Group Hospitals we’re passionate about giving patients a positive experience and excellent clinical outcomes, with personalised care every step of the way. Whether you’re paying for yourself or using private medical insurance, with our short waiting times, unrivalled Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings and high levels of cleanliness and infection control, we’ll make sure you’re looked after. In fact, we were the first provider to have all services rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC.
Acknowledgements
Mr William Dartey trained at the University of Ghana Medical School where he achieved a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree. After practicing internal medicine, trauma/emergency and obstetrics, and gynaecology for a few years he relocated to the UK.
As a postgraduate he achieved his membership from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, MRCOG. Mr Dartey also trained in Groningen in the Netherlands and in the USA.
Mr Dartey has worked in various teaching and district hospitals in England and Scotland and has carried out research as well as writing papers for publication. He is well known in the region having worked at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton and RUH in Bath for four years.
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This is the best hospital I have ever been in. The care and efficiency were excellent. My operation was conducted by a top class surgeon and anaesthetist who made me feel relaxed and secure. The team in the Kingfisher ward were kind and professional with good bedside manners and sense of humour. There were no delays in the treatment. My stay was made as comfortable as possible and I thank everyone involved. I am now recovering well.
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