A gynaecologist is a medical professional that is highly trained to take care of and treat female health issues, particularly those that are related to the reproductive organs.

Is it time to book an appointment with a gynaecologist? Discover the best gynaecologists in Malta and Gozo together with opening hours and clinics' locations on Yellow.

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Gynaecologists examine the overall health of their female patients and treat any conditions related to the female reproductive system, including infertility, menstruation, menopause, breast and hormonal issues, urinary and pelvic disorders, as well as serious conditions like cancer of the cervix or endometrial cancer (a type of cancer that begins in the uterus). Most gynaecologists operate from their own private clinics, however, many also work in private hospitals, polyclinics, pharmacies and at Mater Dei hospital.

Which Conditions and Treatments Do Gynaecologists Treat? 

It is recommended that all women visit their gynaecologist at least once a year for a pap smear test. A smear test (also known as a cervical screening) is the procedure through which a gynaecologist checks for abnormal cells in the cervix as a preventative measure against cervical cancer. It is usually recommended that women between the ages of 25 and 64 undergo routine cervical screening.

While regular screening is essential, it's even more important to see a gynaecologist when you suspect an abnormality or have discomfort. Certain mild conditions can go on their own without the need for a doctor or medication, but other conditions can have serious effects on your overall health if gone untreated. In such cases, the gynaecologist will perform a thorough examination and it may also be required to send samples of tissue or fluids to a laboratory to assist further with the diagnosis. Depending on the condition, the doctor may ask for medical or surgical therapies like a gynaecological laparoscopy (a less invasive form of surgery used to check inside the pelvic area), while you might also need to book a follow-up appointment. Regular visits are even more important for women with conditions like endometriosis (a condition where the lining of the uterus grows in other places such as the pelvis, ovaries and fallopian tubes) or polycystic ovary syndrome that require routine check-ups to manage the disorder.

Women who experience severe period pain or who have irregular periods may also benefit from a consultation with a gynaecologist to diagnose the possible causes and determine solutions that are best-suited for the patient's condition and lifestyle. Gynaecologists are also equipped to offer medical support to women who are experiencing menopause and who need assistance in the management of symptoms associated with it.

What Pregnancy-Related Services Are Offered?

Gynaecologists who are also certified obstetricians can offer consultations during pregnancy. An obstetrician is a medical professional who focuses specifically on the  care of pregnant women throughout the three trimesters and beyond. Gynaecologists are very often trained to perform obstetric checks.

You should visit your doctor as soon as you experience early pregnancy symptoms such as food cravings, frequent urination, mood swings or when a home pregnancy test has confirmed that you are pregnant. These antenatal visits consist of a general check-up and include measuring the mother's blood pressure, listening to the baby's heartbeat, checking the mother's urine and plotting her weight gain. The practitioner is trained to identify potential complications that may occur throughout the pregnancy and determine potential corrective measures.

Every so often, the gynaecologist may carry out an ultrasound to confirm that all is proceeding regularly during the pregnancy. Some clinics also offer specialised screening tests like 4D ultrasounds and nuchal translucency scans (a scan that is performed around the 12th week of the pregnancy) that are aimed at detecting any foetal abnormalities.

Couples who cannot conceive may choose to visit an infertility specialist. Treatments vary greatly depending on the diagnosis and the personal choice of each couple. However, fertility medication, In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and Intrauterine insemination (IUI) are among the most commonly used procedures. 

How Do I Book an Appointment?

Visits to most gynaecologists are usually by appointment unless there is an emergency. In such cases the doctor will ask the patient to drop in at the clinic as soon as it opens or before it closes.

Follow-ups are usually allocated a date in advance so there is no need to phone again.