What Does a Gynaecologist Do (and When Should You See One?)

When people hear the word "gynaecologist", they often think of pregnancy, cervical smears or surgery. In reality, gynaecology is an incredibly broad and rewarding specialty that looks after women through many different stages of life.

It's also a specialty that I feel privileged to work in every day.

So, What Does a Gynaecologist Actually Do?

A gynaecologist is a specialist doctor who focuses on women's reproductive health.

This includes the:

• uterus

• cervix

• ovaries

• fallopian tubes

• vagina

• vulva

Gynaecologists help diagnose and manage a wide range of conditions including:

• endometriosis

• pelvic pain

• painful periods

• heavy menstrual bleeding

• fibroids

• ovarian cysts

• fertility concerns

• abnormal cervical screening results

• menopause and hormonal health

In many ways, gynaecology combines medicine, surgery, preventative healthcare and long-term patient relationships.

What's the Difference Between a Gynaecologist and an Obstetrician?

Obstetrics focuses on pregnancy, childbirth and the immediate postnatal period.

Gynaecology covers reproductive health outside of pregnancy, including menstrual health, pelvic pain, fertility, contraception and menopause.

In New Zealand, most specialists are trained in both disciplines and hold qualifications in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

While I trained in both obstetrics and gynaecology, my private practice focuses on gynaecology and women's reproductive health.

Why I Chose Gynaecology

One of the things I love most about gynaecology is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to a woman's quality of life.

Many of the conditions I treat aren't life-threatening, but they can have a profound impact on daily life.

Pelvic pain can affect relationships, work and mental wellbeing.

Heavy periods can cause anaemia and exhaustion.

Fertility challenges can be emotionally overwhelming.

Being able to listen, investigate, diagnose and develop a treatment plan alongside a patient is incredibly rewarding.

I also enjoy that the specialty combines clinical medicine, surgery and long-term continuity of care.

No two patients are the same, and there is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution.

My Training Journey

Becoming a specialist gynaecologist takes many years.

After medical school, I completed several years of hospital training before entering the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) specialist training programme.

Following specialist qualification, I undertook further advanced training in minimally invasive gynaecological surgery through the Australasian Gynaecological Endoscopy and Surgery Society (AGES).

This additional training focused on the surgical management of conditions such as:

• endometriosis

• fibroids

• ovarian cysts

• complex laparoscopic surgery

I currently work as a Specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Middlemore Hospital, Te Whatu Ora Counties Manukau and provide private gynaecology consultations in Auckland.

Public and Private Gynaecology Care: What's the Difference?

New Zealand's public health system is free and often provides excellent care. I continue to work within the public system and see first-hand the dedication of healthcare professionals working under increasing demand.

However, like many healthcare systems around the world, public services are under pressure.

This can result in long waits for specialist assessment, investigations or surgery, particularly when symptoms are not considered immediately urgent.

Private care offers an alternative pathway.

Benefits may include:

• shorter wait times

• longer consultation times

• greater flexibility with appointment scheduling

• faster access to investigations

• earlier access to surgery when appropriate

For many women, private care isn't about receiving different treatment. It's about having more control over timing, access and continuity of care.

When Should You See a Gynaecologist?

You may benefit from seeing a gynaecologist if you experience:

• painful periods

• pelvic pain

• heavy menstrual bleeding

• irregular periods

• ovarian cysts

• fertility concerns

• abnormal cervical screening results

• concerns about fibroids or endometriosis

• symptoms that are affecting your quality of life

You don't need to wait until symptoms become severe before seeking advice.

Final Thoughts

Women's health concerns are common, but that doesn't mean you should simply put up with them.

Whether you're looking for answers, exploring treatment options or seeking a second opinion, my goal is to provide evidence-based care in a supportive and collaborative environment.

I hope this blog has helped explain a little more about what gynaecologists do, how we train, and why I feel privileged to work in this specialty.