Visiting London this holiday season? We’re here for your women’s health and gynaecology needs
At London Gynaecology, we’re on hand, whenever you need us.
London is alive over the holiday season. Whether you’re last-minute gift shopping, visiting family and friends or simply soaking up the city’s atmosphere, now’s the time to celebrate.
But even when you’re caught up in the festive fun, you may still need access to top specialists who can help you with your health concerns.
From unexpected period pain or infections to unexplained, uncomfortable symptoms, you don’t wait until January to get checked. London Gynaecology, London’s premier private women’s healthcare clinic is open throughout the festive season, so you’re never alone.
“Our consultants and GP’s frequently see patients who are visiting the city temporarily and need same-day appointments, private prescriptions or reassurance,” says Dr Alisha Esmail, Women’s Health GP & BMS Menopause Specialist at London Gynaecology.
Here’s how London Gynaecology can help…
Contraception and emergency contraception
Amid the rush of Christmas, your contraceptive pills may have been forgotten or misplaced. Or, you may be in need of emergency contraception after an unexpected situation.
Accessing contraception when you’re away from home can be stressful and inconvenient. Where do you go? Who do you turn to?
London Gynaecology offers a discreet, same-day service for rapid access to contraception and emergency prescriptions.
“We’re here to help. Thereare no awkward queues, no stress and no judgement,” says Dr Esmail.
The team at London Gynaecology can also offer advice, as well as fitting, other contraception choices including the hormonal and non-hormonal coil (IUD/IUS), while offering personalised advice to help you make the choice that best suits your lifestyle and future plans.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs can cause some incredibly uncomfortable symptoms, which often, cannot be ignored. From a burning sensation when you pee to urgently needing to ‘go’, there’s no denying that a UTI might ruin your festive plans.
Caused by bacteria from the skin or bowel entering the urethra, factors such as sexual activity, dehydration, hormonal changes and use of spermicides or certain contraceptives can all contribute to the chances of developing a UTI.
Other common symptoms of a UTI can include passing small amounts of urine frequently; cloudy, strong-smelling or even blood-stained urine; pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis; and in more severe cases, fever, nausea or one-sided back pain, which may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys. In fact, one-side back pain can be a sign of a kidney infection, so don’t delay in seeking help.
Dr Esmail says: “Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help relieve your UTI symptoms quickly and reduce the risk of recurrence.
“At London Gynaecology, we have consultants who specialise in the diagnosis and management of urinary tract infections and recurrent UTIs. Book an appointment and a member of our team may offer urine testing and targeted antibiotic treatment as well as help addressing the underlying cause, preventative treatments and general lifestyle tips.”
If you’re pregnant, it’s important to take action sooner rather than later if you’re experiencing UTI symptoms as they can lead to complications during pregnancy if left untreated.
Vaginal infections
Unexpected itching, discharge or discomfort can be uncomfortable, especially when you’re out and about, trying to enjoy yourself.
But, vaginal infections are common and they can usually be treated fairly fast.
By way of example, Thrush is a common yeast infection that affects most women at some point in their life. It may be treated with antifungal medications such as tablets or vaginal pessaries.
Common symptoms of thrush include:
- itching;
- irritation or soreness around the vagina;
- a thick white ‘cottage cheese-like’ vaginal discharge;
- pain or discomfort during sex or urination; and/or
- redness or swelling around the vulva.
Dr Esmail adds: “Recurrent thrush, typically defined as four or more episodes in a year. It is is caused by the overgrowth of Candida, a yeast that normally lives harmlessly in the vagina. Recurrent thrush needs a different approach where the cause of the thrush is identified and treated.”
At London Gynaecology we can help identify the cause of recurrent thrush. Sometimes, there may be no obvious cause. However, antibiotic use, hormonal changes, diabetes, tight or synthetic underwear, perfumed vaginal washes, sexual activity and a weakened immune system can all contribute.
Explaining what’s involved in an appointment at London Gynaecology, leading private gynaecologist Priyanka Patel says: “A consultant gynaecologist may carry out a blood test, a pelvic examination including vaginal swab test for microscopic culture and sensitivities for candida and other bacteria and if required, they will write you a prescription. We will also send a comprehensive report to you and your GP.”
Bleeding or pain in pregnancy
When you’re miles away from home, noticing unusual symptoms during pregnancy is worrying and Dr Google can throw up some confusing advice.
Dr Esmail says: “Bleeding and spotting in early pregnancy is fairly common, occurring in 40 to 50% of pregnancies. Unexplained bleeding in early pregnancy may be due to the developing embryo implanting within the uterine lining or hormonal changes.”
Pregnancy symptoms vary widely from one woman to another, but it’s worth getting anything unusual checked out.
At London Gynaecology, the safety of you and your unborn baby are our priority. This is why our experts will offer the support you need, with advice, relevant checks and scans.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) subscriptions
With so much going on in life, it’s easy to let things slip. Even your Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) prescriptions might have been forgotten amid the festive rush.
“HRT can come in many different forms, from tablets and patches to gels and sprays. If you run out of either of these and your usual GP isn’t close by, then you may worry about , disruptive menopausal symptoms. That’s where we come in, offering a prescription refill or advice around HRT while you’re in London,” says Dr Esmail.
Or maybe you just want a bit of HRT reassurance or troubleshooting – either way, that’s what we’re here for.
Pain during sex
Sex shouldn’t be painful; it should be enjoyable. If you’re experiencing discomfort or unusual symptoms while you’re away from home, getting checked by an expert can help to get to the bottom of any potential problems.
Pain during sex could be caused by an STI or a vaginal infection, both of which may require treatment. If you have a new sexual partner or multiple partners, it’s worth getting checked, to rule out STIs.
Dr Esmail explains: “At London Gynaecology, a sexual health consultation provides a confidential and supportive space to discuss any concerns related to your sexual wellbeing, including STI testing, contraception, symptoms or changes in sexual function.
“Our clinicians will offer personalised advice, appropriate testing and treatment if needed.”
Testing involves a physical examination, potentially alongside vaginal swabs, urine and/or blood test, depending on your symptoms and preferences.
“Ultimately, Christmas is a time of celebration, so don’t let any female health issues hold you back from having a good time. We’re here to make sure your health remains one less thing to worry about this season,” adds Dr Esmail.
With four clinics in London – Moorgate, Harley Street, The Portland Hospital and Richmond – there is always a top gynaecologist near you.