Women’s health concerns are among the most common reasons for seeking private care, and among the most likely to be left unaddressed. Symptoms that affect periods, fertility, intimacy or the menopause transition are often normalised, tolerated or squeezed into a short GP appointment where they cannot be discussed properly.
At Healthium Clinics, our private gynaecology and women’s health service exists to give these concerns the time they need. This article outlines what a consultation can cover and what to expect when you book.
Why a dedicated consultation matters
Many gynaecological symptoms are interconnected. Heavy periods can cause iron deficiency and exhaustion. Hormonal changes can affect mood, sleep, skin and weight. A short appointment focused on one symptom often misses the pattern. A longer consultation with a clinician who specialises in women’s health allows the whole picture to be considered, and for investigations to be planned in a joined-up way.
Concerns we commonly help with
Period problems. Heavy, painful, irregular or absent periods all have identifiable causes, ranging from fibroids and endometriosis to polycystic ovary syndrome and thyroid disorders. We can investigate with blood tests and ultrasound where needed and discuss treatment options.
Perimenopause and menopause. The years leading up to and following the menopause bring changes that many women are not warned about: hot flushes and night sweats, but also anxiety, brain fog, joint pain, low libido, vaginal dryness and disrupted sleep. A consultation covers symptom assessment, the role of hormone testing, lifestyle measures and, where appropriate, a discussion of hormone replacement therapy and its suitability for you.
Contraception and family planning. Advice on the full range of options, and help choosing one that fits your circumstances and health.
Fertility concerns. Initial assessment, including hormone profiling and referral to specialist fertility services where appropriate.
Pelvic floor and bladder symptoms. Leaking when you cough or exercise, urgency, or a sense of heaviness are common after childbirth and around the menopause, and far more treatable than most women realise. Our pelvic floor therapy service works alongside gynaecology consultations.
Vaginal and vulval symptoms. Recurrent infections, dryness, itching or pain during intimacy can usually be diagnosed and treated once properly assessed.
Sexual health. Confidential screening for sexually transmitted infections with results explained clearly.
Cervical screening. Private smear tests for women who prefer to be seen outside the NHS programme or who are due and cannot get a timely appointment.
What happens at your appointment
Your consultation begins with a conversation. We will ask about your symptoms, your menstrual and reproductive history, your general health and what you are hoping to achieve. An examination is carried out only if it is relevant to your concern and only with your consent; you can request a chaperone at any time.
Depending on what we find, we may recommend blood tests, swabs or an ultrasound scan, many of which can be arranged at the clinic. You will receive a clear explanation of the results and a plan. Where a specialist referral is needed, we will provide the letter and can suggest consultants we trust.
Time, discretion and continuity
Healthium is a small, CQC-registered clinic at Badgemore Park, Henley-on-Thames. Appointments are unhurried and the setting is private. Where possible, you will see the same clinician for follow-up, so that your care builds on what has already been discussed rather than starting again.
Preparing for your consultation
It helps to bring:
- A note of your symptoms and when they started
- Details of your cycle, if relevant, including dates of recent periods
- A list of any medications, supplements or contraception you use
- Any previous test results or letters you have
If you are not sure whether your concern warrants a gynaecology consultation or a private GP appointment, our patient coordinator can help you decide when you call.
Common questions
Do I need a referral? No. You can book directly with us. If a referral onward to a specialist is needed, we will provide it.
Will I see a female clinician? We will always try to accommodate a preference for a female clinician; please mention it when booking. A chaperone can be provided for any examination regardless of who you see.
Can my results go to my NHS GP? Yes, with your consent. We encourage this so that your NHS records stay complete, particularly if treatment such as HRT is started.
Book a women’s health consultation
To book a private gynaecology or women’s health appointment at Healthium Clinics, call 01628 876439 or use our online booking system. No referral is needed, and appointments are available for patients from Henley, Marlow, Reading, Maidenhead and across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.
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