In her lifetime, a woman undergoes a lot of changes in terms of the reproductive aspect of her life like menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, menopausal, etc. During these changes, there are risks of developing gynaecological disorders that may get worse if left unchecked. The branch of medicine that deals with female reproductive health is called gynaecology and the doctor specializing in this medical practice is called a gynaecologist or a “gynae”. A woman at any age can be treated by a gynae. Some teens from 13 or 15 years old are already starting to visit a gynae.

Reasons to see a Gynae

A gynae can deal with a lot of disorders or concerns related to female reproductive health including infertility and pregnancy, menstruation and menopause, family planning, ovarian cysts, and cancer, among others. It is recommended for a woman to have annual screening with a gynae as part of their general health check and to determine possible causes of symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or pain in private areas.

These symptoms might be caused by some very serious conditions such as cancer and taking them lightly can lead to serious problems or can even be deadly. This is why annual screening with a gynae can help in the early detection of a disorder or improve a woman’s reproductive health.

As a guide, here are the most critical symptoms that a woman must look out for and see a gynae for as soon as possible when they experience them. We also listed the possible disorders associated with each symptom.

1. Abnormal Vaginal Discharges

It is normal for women to have vaginal discharges in between menstrual periods. Normally, pregnant and breastfeeding women may also notice more vaginal discharges than usual. The normal vaginal discharge is sticky-white. So, having a vaginal discharge of a strange colour or odour can be a sign of a gynaecological problem.

Common causes include:

• Cervical Cancer
• Bacterial Infections
• Gonorrhoea
• Complications from abortion
• Vaginitis
• Chlamydia

There are instances where soap, body wash, bubble baths, creams, and lotions irritate the vagina resulting in an abnormal vaginal discharge. It is suggested to try to discontinue using them and see if symptoms disappear. See a gynae if these symptoms persist after discontinued use.

2. Excessive or Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

A change in a woman’s menstrual period pattern can cause excessive or unusual bleeding. Irregularities such as heavy bleeding, shorter or longer periods, or unusual pain during menstruation can be signs of serious conditions such as:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Ovarian cysts
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
• Cancer (if occurs after 40 years of age)

3. Vaginal Itching and Burning

Women should watch out for vaginal itching and burning which is often observed with redness, soreness, swelling or even lumps or eruptions. This condition can be caused by:

• Yeast infection
• Sexual Disorders

4. Pelvic Pains

A dull throbbing around the lower abdomen or pelvic area and some tenderness around the thigh muscles or stomach should never be ignored.Pelvic pain can be a sign of various infections in the reproductive tract of a woman which can result in damage in the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, and uterus and can lead to infertility. Example of these infections are:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
• Ovarian Cyst
• Appendicitis

5. Frequent Urination

Aside from being a sign for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), frequent urination can also be a sign of several gynaecological conditions such as STDs, fibroids or ovarian cysts pressing on the bladder. If you feel a frequent urge to pee, consider checking with your doctor as this can be a sign of something serious.

The above-mentioned symptoms and conditions are just the most common and obvious signs to look out for. Other symptoms are not that easily observed that is why you must regularly visit your gynae to make sure your reproductive health is taken care of. See a gynae right away if you have been experiencing one or more symptoms for early medical intervention.

Where to go for Gynae Treatments and Advice in Singapore

Every woman is different and a woman needs to have a gynae who can truly understand her concerns and give her personalized treatment. Also, most women feel anxious or fear with the thought of seeing a gynae. This is why a gynae who can provide you a stress-free consultation can make a difference. For a trusted gynae in Singapore, choose PK Women’s Clinic headed by Dr Tan Poh Kok, Senior Consultant Obstetrician, and Gynaecologist. PK Women’s Clinic can provide you both personalized treatment and peace of mind in dealing with your reproductive health.

PK Women’s Clinic caters to a wide range of health issues. Among the services offered at PK Women’s Clinic are the following:

• Pregnancy Care
• Pre-pregnancy Chewock up/ Fertility Screening
• Women’s Wellness Screening
• Contraception / Family Planning
• Female Urinary Incontinence /
• Womb Prolapse
• Gynaecological Surgery
• Other treatments for female reproductive health

With PK Women’s Clinic, you can be assured that your gynae will listen to your concerns and discuss with you your best options. The staff at PK Women’s Clinic will make sure that they can provide you with the care and support that you need. Patients’ trust is PK Women’s Clinic’s trademark and ensures their patients are well satisfied with the health care provided by the clinic.

Set an appointment with PK Women’s Clinic today and be the healthiest woman that you can be.

PK Women’s Specialist Clinic
2,Tai Thong Crescent, #01-12,
The Venue Shoppes., Singapore 347836
+65 6636 9909