Menstrual disorders clinic in Cheltenham

Why choose to visit the menstrual disorders clinic in Cheltenham

Your menstrual cycle is unique to you and usually causes no problems. However more than one in three women experience irregular, heavy or painful periods at some stage in their lives. These problems can have negative effects on work, social or sex lives with women often feeling as if  they have to "just put up with it".

The aim of this clinic is to sensitively and effectively investigate and treat these problems.

The clinic is run by three UK-qualified and trained Consultant Gynaecologists. Between them they have more than 30 years experience as consultants dealing with all forms of menstrual disorders. They have particular interest and expertise in managing problematic periods. They are able to manage all aspects of investigating and treating period problems from simple reassurance to medical or surgical treatments. Our consultants are also accredited advanced laparoscopic surgeons, so you know you’ll be in good hands.

Meet the menstrual disorders team in Cheltenham

Mr Rob Gornall is a trained colposcopist (to investigate abnormal cervical smears and manage precancer changes) and is Medical Director for the 3 Counties Cancer Networks, providing cancer care for the populations of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and South Worcestershire.

Mr Mark Whittaker is the most experienced consultant in the region in the use of rollerball endometrial ablation and hysteroscopic (through the cervix) removal of fibroids.

Why do we have such a clinic?

This dedicated clinic allows women with such problems to be seen by the most appropriate Consultant Gynaecologist and have investigations and often treatment started at one clinic appointment. Any additional treatments/investigations that are opted for can also be discussed, booked or possibly undertaken at the same appointment.

How does the clinic run in Cheltenham?

The consultant will take a medical history from you and then depending on this will usually suggest one or more ways of investigating the problem, the results of which will then be discussed with you and treatment options offered:

• Investigations – possible investigations suggested either at the time or later.
• Cervical smear – occasionally a cervical smear may need to be taken.
• Swabs – certain pelvic infections can be related to pelvic pain and irregular bleeding. Swabs from the vagina/cervix are sometimes required. The consultant will explain if and why these are required.
• Hysteroscopy – this is the process of directly looking inside of the womb. It is the best way to exclude many of the common problems that cause period problems and avoids the need for a general anaesthetic. A very fine telescope is passed through the cervix and into the womb using local anaesthetic. Water is used to give a clear view of the inside of the womb. Some crampy period-like pain is normal during the procedure but usually resolves very quickly once the procedure is completed.
• Endometrial biopsy – a sample of the lining of the womb may be necessary to help exclude worrying causes of bleeding problems. This is taken with a fine plastic tube that is past through the cervix into the womb. Some crampy period-like pain is normal during the procedure but usually resolves very quickly once the procedure is completed.

Treatments we provide at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital

After you have had one or more of the investigations the consultant will discuss with you the findings and all of your suitable options. These may include:

• No need to do anything - and an explanation why
• Commencing medical treatment i.e. non-hormonal and hormonal medications including a hormone-containing coil for heavy periods (Mirena™ coil)  
• Considering various surgical options i.e. endometrial ablation for heavy periods (when the lining of the womb is heated) or laparoscopy (keyhole surgery) to investigate the cause of pelvic pain. Laparoscopic hysterectomies both total (removing the cervix) and sub-total (leaving the cervix) can also be discussed or planned.  

Your consultant will discuss your options with you in more detail.

How to contact our menstrual disorders clinic in Cheltenham

To book an appointment or to find out more information please contact our hospital enquiry team on 01242 246552, or fill in the contact form below and we'll get back to you at a more convenient time.