FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
01. How much does it cost to visit a gynae in Singapore?
It depends. If you are visiting a private gynae, the cost would come to about $150 to $350 per appointment, depending if you require supplements, medications or other services like ultrasound scans or ECG.
If you are pregnant, some gynaes may offer a prenatal package usually after week 9 and they may range from $800 – $2000. At PK Women’s Clinic, we offer packages from 16 weeks onwards at $880.
02. Where can I find a good gynae in Singapore?
As your gynae is someone you’ll be discussing your sexual and personal health with, it’s important to pick someone you not only trust but has the necessary qualifications as well. In general, you want to look out for:
A good track record; people highly recommend them
Good reviews
Experienced with credentials
Justifiable cost
Good bedside manner
Affiliated with a hospital you trust
You feel comfortable with them
03. When should I see a gynae?
You should see a gynae if you’re experiencing issues with your reproductive system, such as intense menstrual cramps, heavy bleeding or other concerning symptoms. Even if you’re healthy, you should get regular checkups with a gynae to ensure your reproductive organs are healthy. We recommend that young women start seeing a gynae from the time they get their first menstruation.
If you suspect you are pregnant, you can confirm your pregnancy with a gynae 6-8 weeks after your last menstrual period.
04. How do I choose an obstetrician in Singapore?
Your perfect obstetrician will depend on your needs. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
Gender — do you prefer a male or female OBGYN?
Good recommendations; this OBGYN has had positive experiences with your friends and family
Look at reviews online — what do other mums say about this OBGYN?
Experience and specialisations — do you have special needs like fertility problems or existing medical conditions? Looking at your OBGYN’s track record and specialty will be a good idea.
Accountability — most doctors are busy. But the good ones will take the time to answer your questions.
Preferred hospital for delivery — which hospital is your OBGYN affiliated with? Are you comfortable with giving birth at that hospital?
Services offered — some small clinics may not have the facilities for certain prenatal procedures and may require you to go elsewhere for testing. Are you okay with that?
05. When should I book my first gynae appointment?
As soon as you’ve got a positive result on your pregnancy test, make an appointment with your gynae. The first appointment should usually be between week 6 and 8 of pregnancy, but this can vary depending on how busy your gynae is. Regardless, you should start taking care of your health and adopt habits like avoid alcohol, caffeine, follow a healthy diet and avoid high contact sports.
06. What does a gynaecologist do?
A gynae is basically a doctor who specialises in female reproductive health. They treat and diagnose issues concerning the female reproductive tract, including the uterus, breasts, fallopian tubes and ovaries. A gynae gives sexual and reproductive health services that include testing for vaginal infections, Pap tests, pelvic exams, cancer screenings and testing for conditions like endometriosis and ovarian cysts. They are able to prescribe treatment too.
Some gynaes also practice as obstetricians (OBGYN), who provide care during pregnancy and birth.
07. What happens at your first gynae appointment?
Usually we will start by asking questions regarding your medical history, sexual activity and menstrual cycle. We then do a general body check up to check your blood pressure, record your weight and check for any heart, chest, lungs or thyroid gland abnormalities.
We will then examine your breasts to ensure there are no abnormal lumps or pain and conduct a pelvic exam to check if your reproductive organs are healthy. Then, we use an instrument called a speculum to see your cervix and conduct a pap smear. Finally, we feel through the vagina to confirm that your ovaries and uterus are healthy.
08. Is 12 weeks too late for prenatal visit?
Your first prenatal visit takes place around 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. At 12 weeks, which is near the end of the first trimester, you will do your first ultrasound and are able to hear your baby’s heartbeat. The earlier you do a scan in pregnancy, the higher the accuracy of determining your due date.