General gynecology covers most of the routine and problem focused care that women need at different stages of life. It includes contraception, menstrual health, genital infections, benign diseases of the uterus and ovaries and the follow up of many common symptoms.
A clear, structured approach helps avoid both unnecessary worry and missed diagnoses. In Lisbon, Dra. Joana Faria offers general gynecology consultations in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, with time to listen and to explain each step of the plan.
Main topics of general gynecology are explored in dedicated pages, including contraception and menopause, menstrual cycle alterations, menstrual pain and genital infections and reproductive tract diseases.
What general gynecology covers
General gynecology is not limited to a single disease. It is the field that looks after everyday gynecologic health. Typical reasons to book a consultation include:
- Routine check ups and preventive visits.
- Choosing or changing contraception.
- Heavy, irregular or painful periods.
- Vaginal discharge, itching, burning or suspected genital infection.
- Pelvic pain, discomfort during sexual intercourse or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Follow up of benign conditions such as fibroids, cysts or endometriosis.
General gynecology also often includes a discussion of future pregnancy plans, fertility questions and the impact of lifestyle or other medical conditions on reproductive health.
Main symptoms and reasons to consult
Some women only seek gynecologic care when they have a specific problem. Others prefer regular preventive visits. Both approaches can be valid, but certain symptoms should always lead to a consultation.
You should consider booking an appointment if you notice:
- Bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse or after menopause.
- Periods that are much heavier or more painful than usual.
- Persistent pelvic or lower abdominal pain.
- Changes in vaginal discharge, especially if there is odour, itching or burning.
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty getting pregnant after trying for some time.
These signs are common and often have benign explanations, but they deserve a structured evaluation. If you ever experience very heavy bleeding, sudden severe pain or feel faint, you should contact emergency services or go directly to the nearest emergency department.
Diagnosis: exams and what to expect
Most general gynecology consultations combine a detailed conversation with a physical examination. Additional tests are requested only when they are likely to add useful information.
During a typical visit you can expect:
- Clinical history
Discussion of your cycle, contraception, pregnancies, medications, other health conditions, sexual life and any symptoms that concern you. - Gynecologic examination
External inspection, speculum examination of the vagina and cervix, and bimanual palpation of the uterus and ovaries. The exam is performed gently and can be adapted if you feel anxious or have had negative experiences in the past. - Pelvic ultrasound when indicated
Transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound may be used to visualise the uterus and ovaries, for example when there is pain, heavy bleeding or known benign disease. - Laboratory tests or swabs
Vaginal or cervical samples can be taken to investigate infections or to perform screening tests, depending on your age and history.
Not all visits require all of these elements. Dra. Joana Faria individualises the workup to your situation and explains why each test is or is not necessary.
Treatment options and follow up
In general gynecology, treatment is guided by your diagnosis, your age and your goals. For many conditions, several options exist, from simple lifestyle measures to medication or surgery. Examples include:
- Hormonal or non hormonal contraception adapted to your health and preferences.
- Medical treatment of heavy or painful periods.
- Targeted treatment of genital infections and counselling to reduce recurrences.
- Medical or surgical management of benign uterine and ovarian diseases when needed.
- Referral to fertility or menopause specialists in selected cases.
Follow up is an essential part of care. It allows the doctor to check whether symptoms improve, whether side effects are tolerable and whether any adjustment is needed. You are encouraged to ask questions and to share your priorities so that decisions remain aligned with what matters most to you.
How Dra. Joana Faria approaches general gynecology in practice
Dra. Joana Faria believes that a good gynecology consultation combines medical precision with genuine listening. She knows that many women have delayed care because of past experiences that felt rushed or judgmental.
In practice she:
- Takes time to understand your story before focusing on any single symptom.
- Explains medical terms in clear language and checks that you have understood the plan.
- Performs examinations gently and adapts them to your comfort and cultural background.
- Offers written summaries when helpful, especially for complex conditions or multi step plans.
- Coordinates care with other specialists when your gynecologic health is linked to hormonal, metabolic or mental health conditions.
For many patients, this approach turns general gynecology visits into a space where they can ask questions freely and build a long term relationship of trust.
