Crestcare Femina Health

Exceptional healthcare especially for women.

Find a Doctor Who Understands You

Because your health isn't a one-size-fits-all issue.

Women's bodies are uniquely complex with specific needs that influence disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Our doctors understand that and are committed to providing care that is as individual as you are. Our focus is on female-specific conditions, whether related to reproductive health or other aspects of women's biology. We also address general health issues that may impact women in distinct or disproportionate ways.

Have a meaningful conversation with one of our doctors to feel truly heard and supported.

Know Your Body

Empower yourself to make confident choices for your health and well-being.

Your Questions Deserve Answers

As a woman, your health journey is uniquely yours. It's important to listen to your body and advocate for yourself.

Experiencing pain during sex, medically known as dyspareunia, is not uncommon, but it's important to understand that it's not something you should consider 'normal' or endure without seeking help. Several factors can contribute to this discomfort:

Common Physical Causes and Solutions: One of the most frequent reasons for pain during sex is insufficient lubrication, which can occur for various reasons such as hormonal changes, stress, or not being fully aroused. This can be addressed by using a quality lubricant and ensuring ample time for arousal. Other common causes include vaginal infections or inflammations, like yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, which can be treated with appropriate medications. More complex conditions, such as endometriosis or hormonal changes during menopause could also be a cause but require a more comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan by your doctor.

Psychological Factors: Emotional or psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or past traumatic experiences can contribute to pain during intercourse.

Relationship Issues: Discomfort during sex can sometimes be linked to relationship problems, lack of trust, or communication with a partner.

Remember, your sexual health is an important part of your well-being, and addressing issues like pain during sex is necessary in maintaining both your physical and emotional health.
There are a number of reasons that can cause irregular menstrual cycles. Understanding these can help you determine if you need to consult a healthcare provider:

Lifestyle Factors: High stress, significant weight changes, and intense physical activity can all impact the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

Age-Related Changes: Hormonal fluctuations are common during certain life stages, notably during puberty and the transition into menopause. These stages can lead to irregular cycles due to the body’s natural hormonal adjustments.

Medication Influences: Birth control pills and other hormonal therapies often affect menstrual regularity.

Nutritional Factors: A diet lacking essential nutrients or eating disorders can result in irregular cycles.

Medical Conditions: Conditions such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis can also disrupt your menstrual cycle.

Hormonal Imbalances: While less common, hormonal imbalances due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can lead to irregular periods.

If you're concerned about the regularity of your menstrual cycle, it's a good idea to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider. They can help pinpoint the cause and guide you toward the right treatment or lifestyle changes.
Vaginal cleansing is a topic that often sparks debate. There are many products out there that may make you think you need to cleanse internally, but it's important to know this isn't necessary and can even be harmful. The vagina is self-cleaning and doesn’t require special soaps or cleansers inside.

For daily hygiene, simply clean the external vulva and labia gently with water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. If you have any doubts or concerns about vaginal health or hygiene, it's a great idea to discuss them during your next healthcare appointment.
Because endometriosis can manifest with a wide range of symptoms, and some women might have mild symptoms or none at all, it is often under diagnosed. It's important to note that having these symptoms does not definitively mean you have endometriosis; they can be indicative of other conditions. The only way to confirm a diagnosis of endometriosis is through a medical examination, which may include imaging tests like ultrasounds and, in some cases, a laparoscopy - a surgical procedure where a doctor looks inside your abdomen to spot endometriosis tissue.

But recognising the signs and symptoms is the first step in getting a proper diagnosis. Here's what to look out for:

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): While it's common to have some discomfort during menstruation, endometriosis can cause severe period pain, which might worsen over time.

Pain with Intercourse: Pain during or after sexual intercourse is another common symptom of endometriosis.

Pain with Bowel Movements or Urination: You might experience these symptoms particularly during your menstrual periods if you have endometriosis.

Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: This can include occasional heavy periods (menorrhagia) or bleeding between periods (menometrorrhagia).

Infertility: Endometriosis is sometimes first diagnosed in women seeking treatment for infertility.

Other Symptoms: These can include fatigue, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during menstrual periods.

Please consult your doctor if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, particularly if they're impacting your quality of life.
Vaginal discharge is a normal and natural part of female health, serving to clean and moisten the vagina and protect it from infection. However, understanding what is typical for you and recognising changes can help you determine if there's a reason for concern. Here's how to tell:

Normal Discharge

Typically, normal vaginal discharge is clear or milky white, and may vary in consistency and amount during your menstrual cycle. Before ovulation, you may notice an increase in clear, stretchy, egg white-like discharge.

Changes to Watch For

Pay attention to changes in the colour, smell, or consistency of your discharge. If you notice any of the following, it might be a sign to consult a healthcare provider:

Unusual Colour: Grey, green, or yellow discharge.

Strong Odour: A strong, fishy, or unpleasant odour.

Texture Changes: A cottage cheese-like texture.

Accompanying Symptoms: Itching, burning, or irritation around the vagina.

Potential Causes of Changes

Changes in discharge can be due to a variety of factors, including infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), changes in hormone levels, or certain medications.

When to See a Doctor:

If you're experiencing unusual symptoms or changes in your discharge that concern you, it's important to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment if necessary.

Remember, each woman's experience with vaginal discharge can vary, and what's normal for one person may not be for another. Being familiar with your own body and its typical patterns is key to recognising when something may be amiss.
Mood changes are a common part of PMS, and it's normal to experience a range of emotions like irritability, sadness, or anxiety due to hormonal shifts before your period. While most women manage these changes, if your moods are intensely affecting your daily life, it might be more than typical PMS.

Severe mood swings could indicate Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), a more intense form of PMS. If you're concerned about your emotional well-being during this time, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. They can help identify whether it's PMS or PMDD and suggest effective treatments.

To manage PMS-related mood swings, consider lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Stress management techniques can also be beneficial. Remember, if your mood changes feel overwhelming, seeking professional advice is a proactive step towards better health.

Some Frequently Asked Gynaecological Questions

Have More Questions?

Make an appointment and don't feel embarrassed to ask those difficult questions.

It's common to feel uneasy about asking sensitive questions at your gynae's office but remember, it's a confidential and judgment-free space. If you're nervous, try breaking the ice with, "I'm a bit embarrassed to ask this, but it's important."

Start the conversation—your health matters and clear communication is essential for good care.

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