Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List
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Service Description of Gynaecologists and obstetricians
If you are pregnant, you may have an appointment with an obstetrician as part of your routine antenatal care. If you have problems during your pregnancy, such as bleeding, you may have a special, non-routine, appointment to see an obstetrician. Your GP or midwife will set up these appointments.
Other than during pregnancy, you will usually need to be referred by your GP if you need to see a gynaecologist or obstetrician. This means they have to write a letter recommending you for an appointment.
Your examination and any tests and treatments will depend on the condition that is suspected or diagnosed. If you have to have an intimate examination where you need to undress or be touched by the specialist, for example a smear test or breast examination, your permission will be asked. You will be given privacy while you undress and during the examination.
You can request to see a female specialist if you prefer, but depending on how many female specialists are in your local area, this may mean you have to travel further to the appointment, or wait longer for an appointment. You can also request to have a chaperone (an additional medical person such as a nurse, or a friend or family member) to stay with you during examinations.









