When to see a gynaecologist: 10 signs you shouldn't ignore

A gynaecologist (often shortened to "gynae") is a doctor who specialises in women's reproductive health — cycles, pregnancy, hormones, and the organs involved (uterus, ovaries, cervix, vagina).

You don't need to be pregnant or trying to be, to see one. In fact, most gynae visits are for cycle issues, contraception advice, or routine checks. Here are ten signs it's time to book an appointment.

1. Your period is consistently very heavy

Heavy bleeding (called menorrhagia) means soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours, passing clots larger than a Rs 5 coin (about 2.5 cm), or bleeding for more than 7 days.

This can be caused by fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus), polyps (small tissue growths), hormone imbalances, or in rare cases something more serious. All are treatable — but only if diagnosed.

2. Your period is missing for 3+ months (and you're not pregnant)

Called amenorrhea. Causes include PCOS, thyroid problems, extreme stress, very low body weight, or early perimenopause (the transition years before menopause). Worth investigating either way.

3. Bleeding between periods

Any spotting or bleeding that isn't part of your normal period deserves a check. Common causes are hormone changes, contraception side effects, or infection — but it can also signal polyps, fibroids, or (rarely) cervical changes.

4. Pain during sex

Pain during or after sex (dyspareunia) is common and rarely talked about — but it's not something to accept as normal. Causes range from vaginal dryness, infections, and pelvic muscle tightness, to endometriosis or ovarian cysts. All are treatable.

5. Pain that stops your day

Period pain that needs strong painkillers, keeps you off work or school, or gets worse each cycle can point to endometriosis (tissue similar to the uterus lining growing outside it) or adenomyosis (that tissue growing into the uterus muscle). Both are common and take years to diagnose — the sooner you raise it, the better.

6. Unusual discharge, itching, or smell

Some vaginal discharge is normal and changes through your cycle. But new itching, burning, unusual colour (yellow, green, grey), or a strong fishy smell suggests infection — bacterial vaginosis, candida (thrush), or a sexually transmitted infection. All are easy to treat once diagnosed.

7. You've been trying to get pregnant without success

Speak to a gynaecologist if:

• You're under 35 and have tried for 12 months
• You're 35+ and have tried for 6 months
• You have irregular periods, PCOS, or endometriosis
• Your partner has a known fertility issue

8. You want reliable contraception advice

There are more than eight kinds of contraception, each with different pros and cons. A gynaecologist can help you match one to your body, lifestyle, and future plans — not just what your friends use.

9. You've never had a cervical screening

A Pap smear (or HPV test) checks the cells of your cervix (the entrance to the uterus). It's the single most effective way to prevent cervical cancer. Guidelines vary by country:

• In India, the World Health Organization and Government of India guidance recommend starting HPV-based screening from age 30, repeating every 5–10 years.
• In many Western countries (US, UK, Australia), screening starts at 21–25 and is repeated every 3–5 years.

Whichever guideline applies to you, don't skip it — cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early.

10. You're over 40 and cycles are changing

Shorter, longer, heavier, lighter, or unpredictable periods in your 40s often signal perimenopause — the transition years before menopause. It typically lasts around 4 years, but can range from a few months up to about 10 years. It's a normal life stage, but a gynaecologist can help you manage symptoms and rule out other causes.

What to expect at your visit

• A conversation about your cycle, symptoms, and health history — the most useful thing you can bring is a cycle tracker with a few months of data
• Possibly a physical or pelvic exam (you can ask for a female doctor if you prefer)
• Sometimes blood tests or an ultrasound
• A clear plan — investigations, treatment, or follow-up

You have every right to ask questions, take notes, and bring someone with you. A good gynaecologist explains things in plain language and takes your symptoms seriously. If yours doesn't, get a second opinion.