Frequently Asked Questions
What is an obstetrician?
An obstetrician is a specialist in pregnancy and childbirth. You might need to see an obstetrician if you experience complications during pregnancy or labour. The doctor can provide treatments that a midwife cannot, including performing Caesarean sections when necessary.
What is an obstetrician?
An obstetrician is a specialist in pregnancy and childbirth. You might need to see an obstetrician if you experience complications during pregnancy or labour. The doctor can provide treatments that a midwife cannot, including performing Caesarean sections when necessary.
Who will treat me at the Women’s Clinic London?
Miss Aliaa Arafa is a leading gynaecologist and obstetrician who is an expert all areas of womens’ health. She speaks Arabic as well as English and has many years of experience working for the NHS, overseas and at some of London’s top private hospitals. Her specialties include family planning, colostomy, management of high risk pregnancies and miscarriage, and the treatment of heavy periods, fibroids and PCOS.
Should I have gynaecological screening?
Women between the ages of 25 and 65 should undergo regular cervical screening, but it can also be a good idea to have a well woman check up so that any hidden infections or gynaecological conditions are identified and treated. Regular STI screening is also a good idea if you are sexually active as untreated infections can cause serious complications even when you haven’t noticed any symptoms.
What happens during a cervical smear?
A cervical smear is a simple test to detect abnormal cells that could develop into surgical cancer. The doctor will insert a speculum into your vagina to hold it open. A special instrument will then be used to take a sample of cervical cells. It may feel slightly uncomfortable, but it won’t hurt. The sample will be tested in the lab. If any abnormalities are found, you may require a colposcopy or further treatment to ensure all the abnormal cells are removed. All women between the ages of 25 and 65 will be invited for regular cervical screening.
What happens during a gynaecological exam?
During a pelvic exam, the doctor will check your vagina, cervix, and reproductive organs. The doctor will begin with an external examination. She will then use a speculum to hold open your vagina and perform an internal exam by inserting one or two gloved fingers into your vagina. She will use the other hand to press against your abdomen to feel the pelvic organs. Miss Arafa will explain the procedure to you and ensure that you feel as comfortable as possible during the examination.
Should I consider obstetrician-led antenatal care?
You might need to see an obstetrician if you are having a high risk pregnancy or you develop any complications. You can also choose to be treated by an obstetrician instead of a midwife if you prefer, even for an uncomplicated pregnancy.
How do I make an appointment?
You can arrange an appointment at the Women’s Clinic London by phone or by filling in the simple online form.
Can I arrange a telephone consultation?
Miss Arafa can provide advice over the phone if it is more convenient for you, but she may recommend that you come into the clinic if any tests or treatments are required. You can arrange a telephone consultation by calling the clinic or filling in the online form.
What happens if I need an emergency appointment?
Appointments are available at short notice when you need to see the doctor in a hurry. It is usually possible to arrange an appointment on the same or next day when you need help urgently.
Do you deal with insured patients?
Yes, Women’s Clinic London and Miss Arafa have insurance clearance from the following companies and we work closely with them. However if your insurance company is not listed below please do not worry, just let us know what it is and we will let you know how to arrange authorisation from them