AccessGP Knowledge Base

Women’s Health: GP Reviewed Information

Women’s health spans hormonal changes, menstrual patterns, reproductive health, pelvic symptoms and the natural transition through perimenopause and menopause. This section of the AccessGP Knowledge Base provides GP reviewed information on common women’s health concerns, what symptoms may mean and how issues are assessed in primary care.

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What this women’s health section covers

This section includes summaries of common women’s health topics often discussed in private GP consultations. Each article outlines how symptoms may present, what questions a GP may ask and when blood tests or imaging might be considered. Topics include:

Each page aims to support understanding rather than provide personalised medical advice.

Common reasons speak to a GP for women’s health concerns

Women may notice changes at different life stages, including:

  • irregular, heavy or painful periods
  • symptoms around hormonal transitions
  • new pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort
  • changes in vaginal discharge or odour
  • hot flushes, sweats or sleep disturbance
  • mood changes linked to the menstrual cycle
  • concerns about fertility or ovulation
  • breast lumps, breast pain or skin changes
  • recurrent urinary tract symptoms
  • perimenopausal symptoms affecting daily life

A GP will explore timing, duration, patterns and any red flag features, along with relevant lifestyle or contraceptive factors.

In private GP care, blood tests are selected after a clinical discussion to ensure they are relevant and help guide next steps.

Types of women’s health topics explained in this section

These short sections introduce the topics that have their own dedicated articles within the Knowledge Base.

Menstrual cycle changes

Changes in cycle length, pattern or flow are common at different ages. A GP review focuses on symptom patterns, contraception, timing and whether blood tests or pelvic imaging might be helpful. Many menstrual changes are benign, but sudden, persistent or severe changes may require assessment.

Irregular or absent periods

Irregular periods may relate to stress, weight change, PCOS, thyroid imbalance, early menopause or contraception. Blood tests for hormones, iron, thyroid function and pregnancy may be considered depending on the situation. A GP interprets results alongside symptoms and wider health history.

Painful or heavy periods

Painful, prolonged or heavy bleeding can affect day-to-day life. Common causes include hormonal imbalance, fibroids, PCOS or endometriosis. GP assessment looks at pain patterns, cycle timing and any associated symptoms. Blood tests, pelvic ultrasound or medication options may be discussed.

Perimenopause and menopause

Perimenopause can cause hot flushes, cycle irregularity, sleep disruption, anxiety, mood change and joint discomfort. Diagnosis is based on age and symptoms rather than blood tests. A GP may discuss lifestyle changes, non hormonal options, and when hormone replacement therapy might be helpful. Menopause management often overlaps with heart health, bone health and mental wellbeing.

Premenstrual symptoms (PMS/PMDD)

Hormonal changes in the second half of the cycle can cause irritability, low mood, food cravings, bloating or headaches. When symptoms are severe and significantly affect functioning, this can indicate PMDD. GP management focuses on cycle tracking, lifestyle measures and medical options where needed.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS may cause irregular periods, acne, hair thinning or excess hair growth. GP assessment often includes blood tests for androgens, FSH/LH and ultrasound depending on symptoms. Management focuses on symptom control, lifestyle advice, menstrual regularity and metabolic health.

Pelvic pain and bloating

Pelvic or lower abdominal discomfort can have many causes, including ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, bowel symptoms or urinary issues. A GP assesses duration, trigger factors and associated symptoms, and may suggest abdominal or pelvic ultrasound where appropriate.

Vaginal discharge, itching or odour

Changes in discharge may result from infections, hormonal fluctuations, vaginal dryness or skin conditions. A GP review considers colour, timing and associated symptoms to decide whether examination, swabs or treatment are appropriate.

Breast symptoms

Breast lumps, pain, nipple changes or skin changes can arise for many reasons, most of which are benign. Assessment depends on age, timing in the menstrual cycle and the nature of the changes. A GP may consider breast examination, ultrasound or referral where indicated.

Contraception and family planning

Contraception discussions may include combined pills, progestogen methods, coils, implants or barrier methods depending on individual needs. GP advice considers health conditions, cycle symptoms, side effects and future pregnancy plans.

Fertility-related hormone discussions

Some women request information about FSH, LH, AMH or prolactin. These tests are used selectively, usually with guidance about timing in the cycle. A GP ensures that results are interpreted appropriately and that expectations about what these tests can and cannot indicate are clear.

How a GP approaches women’s health concerns

A GP usually explores:

  • onset and pattern of symptoms
  • cycle timing and contraceptive use
  • associated symptoms (pain, bleeding changes, discharge)
  • family history and past gynaecological issues
  • lifestyle factors such as stress, exercise and sleep

Investigations such as blood tests or ultrasound are only recommended where they are likely to influence management. Many women’s health issues are diagnosed clinically without needing extensive testing.

How women’s health relates to wider health checks

Women’s health overlaps closely with:

  • hormone health
  • mental health
  • gut symptoms
  • urinary health
  • metabolic factors (weight, insulin resistance, PCOS)
  • heart and bone health around menopause

Your hub page will naturally link to Hormone Health, Gut Health, Heart Health and Mental Health articles for cross-topic support.

When to book a GP appointment about women’s health

Consider a GP consultation if:

  • your periods have changed suddenly or become irregular
  • symptoms are interfering with day-to-day life
  • you have pelvic pain or bloating that persists
  • you have concerns about discharge or vaginal symptoms
  • you would like to discuss perimenopause or menopause
  • you want personalised contraception or family planning advice
  • you are unsure whether hormone tests or ultrasound may help

A GP can review symptoms in context and help plan appropriate next steps.

If you would like to discuss women’s health symptoms or plan a wider assessment, you can book an online GP appointment with AccessGP.

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Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Clinical contributor: Dr Tasnimah Miah, Women’s Health Advocate
Updated: 15 December 2025