Vagina
Like your innermost feelings, your vagina may be deeply private. We respect this as we take care of symptoms including discomfort, dryness, discharge, thrush, incontinence and prolapse. Your vaginal health reflects many aspects of your life, from your lifestyle to your menstrual or menopause hormones, and may be linked with your self-confidence, sexual experiences and relationships, or with your experience of childbirth. We believe vaginal health is a very important part of womanhood and we offer thorough care combined with sensitivity.
Gynaecology is the cornerstone. The first step is to meet your specialist for a chat and a gentle examination. We are proud to have one of London's most skilful vaginal specialists, Dr Rashna Chenoy, among our experienced gynaecology team,
Laboratory analysis of vaginal swabs, cervical smears and blood tests provides useful information towards diagnosis.
Ultrasound scanning is frequently used to investigate incontinence or pelvic pain.
Colposcopy is an examination similar to having a cervical smear test: using the colposcope enables your gynaecologist to magnify and examine your vagina and cervix in detail. If needed a biopsy will be suggested to provide an accurate diagnosis.
Medical treatment may be helpful, depending on the issue. If an infection is present antibiotics may be prescribed; we also recommend probiotics to reduce potential side effects. Natural remedies such as tea tree pessaries may replace antibiotics. Sometimes oestrogen hormones are very hlepful. Pain in the labia may respond to gentle creams that rarely contain a steroid.
Surgery may be needed to treat prolapse or to widen the vaginal opening or remove abnormal cells. It can be very effective to reduce pain.
Pelvic floor exercises are something you can do to strengthen muscles and ligaments that support your vagina. You may be referred to a specilaist physiotherapist or a Pilates teacher for guidance. Pelvic floor strengthening classes are among our programme of courses.
Complementary care might be a good option for you. For instance, nutritional measures can reduce recurrent outbreaks of thrush; osteopathy may relieve pain; acupuncture may help to rebalance hormones; while homeopathy is often used when an emotional issue is involved. You also have access to a life coach, fitness adviser and a sensitive hypnotherapist at Viveka. Your gynaecologist can help you decide which, if any, therapy, might help you.
Sexual, self-esteem or relationship issues have an impact on vaginal function for many women. Gentle exploration of your experiences may be a powerful way of releasing fear, tension or pain connected with your vagina and other erogenous zones. It may also be useful if you feel disconnected from this part of your body. If you would like to meet one of our 'Emo' (emotional support) team, your doctor will be happy to talk with you and match you with a suitable therapist. Emotional support can be very effective to relieve discomfort and improve fun and sexual enjoyment. It is often used in conjunction with medical and/or complementary care.
