Gynecological Care

The adolescent years are when girls experience their first period. This stage is called puberty, when hormones begin to change, and the body develops into adulthood.

Dr. Dutywa encourages mothers to bring their daughters for early guidance as soon as they begin menstruating. This allows her to provide age-appropriate health advice, education, and support to young girls in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free environment, helping them understand their bodies and setting the foundation for a lifetime of informed, confident women’s health. In addition, many girls experience:

• Very painful periods
• Very heavy bleeding
• Irregular cycles
• Severe acne linked to hormones
• Suspected hormonal imbalance

Menstrual health support may include cycle education, pain management, and early evaluation for conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS); a hormonal condition that can affect periods, skin, and fertility; as well as endometriosis; a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus and can cause severe period pain, heavy bleeding, and difficulty conceiving.

Routine check-ups are important even when there are no symptoms.

These visits may include:

• Pelvic examination: a clinical exam of the reproductive organs
• Breast examination
• Screening tests
• Contraception counselling
• Discussion of any menstrual or hormonal concerns

Preventive care allows early detection of problems before they become serious.

Pap Smear

A Pap smear is a simple screening test that checks for abnormal cells on the cervix, the lower part of the womb. Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer in women, but it is largely preventable with regular screening.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

HPV is a common virus transmitted through intimate skin contact. Certain types can increase the risk of cervical cancer.

Dr. Dutywa provides:

• Pap smear screening
• HPV testing
• HPV vaccination counselling
• Follow-up of abnormal results
• Referral to oncology specialists when necessary

If cancer is suspected or diagnosed, care is coordinated with cancer specialists to ensure appropriate management.

For women planning pregnancy or struggling to conceive, Dr. Dutywa offers:

• Fertility evaluations
• Hormonal testing
• Ultrasound scans
• Assessment of ovulation
• Tubal patency testing (checking if the fallopian tubes are open)
• Preconception counselling

Preconception care focuses on preparing the body for pregnancy by reviewing medical conditions, medications, lifestyle, and nutritional needs.

Family planning allows women to choose if and when they would like to have children.

Options discussed may include:

• Oral contraceptive pills

• Injectable contraception

• Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

• Implantable contraception

• Permanent sterilisation

Each method is explained clearly so patients can make informed decisions based on their health and preferences.

Abnormal uterine bleeding refers to:

• Very heavy periods

• Bleeding between periods

• Prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Bleeding after intercourse

Causes may include:

• Hormonal imbalance

• Fibroids: non-cancerous growths in the womb

• Polyps: small tissue growths

• Endometrial thickening

• Infection

Evaluation may include ultrasound, blood tests, or hysteroscopy, a small camera used to look inside the uterus.

Chronic pelvic pain is ongoing lower abdominal pain that can affect daily life.

One common cause is endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside the uterus, causing pain and sometimes fertility challenges.

Management may include:

• Medication
• Hormonal therapy

Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopy)

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovary. Many are harmless and resolve on their own, but some require monitoring or surgical removal.

Dr. Dutywa evaluates:

• Persistent cysts

• Complex cysts

• Pelvic masses

• Suspicion of ovarian tumours

Investigations may include ultrasound and blood tests.

Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause, when hormone levels begin to fluctuate.
Menopause is confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months.

Common symptoms include:

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Mood changes
• Sleep disturbance
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced libido
• Weight changes

Dr. Dutywa is passionate about educating women on this stage of life. Many women experience frustration or confusion due to hormonal changes. Care may include:

• Hormone level assessment
• Lifestyle guidance
• Hormone replacement therapy, where appropriate
• Non-hormonal management options

Her goal is to help women understand their bodies and navigate this phase confidently.

Bleeding after menopause is not considered normal and requires evaluation.

Possible causes include:

• Endometrial thickening

• Polyps

• Cervical cancer

• Endometrial cancer

Assessment may involve ultrasound, biopsy, or hysteroscopy. Early investigation allows timely diagnosis and management.

Dr. Dutywa also provides care for:

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Vaginal infections

• Pain during intercourse

• Vaginal discharge concerns

• Sexual health counselling

Confidentiality and respect are central to all consultations.

As a certified laparoscopic surgeon, Dr. Dutywa performs selected procedures using minimally invasive techniques, meaning small incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.

Procedures may include:

• Laparoscopy for infertility evaluation

• Treatment of ectopic pregnancy (in stable patients)

• Ovarian cyst removal

• Endometriosis treatment

• Sterilisation

• Laparoscopic hysterectomy; removal of the uterus

Women’s bodies change significantly across life stages. Hormones, fertility, pregnancy, and ageing all affect physical and emotional health.

Dr. Dutywa believes that women deserve:

• Clear explanations

• Thorough evaluation

• Individualised treatment plans

• Compassionate support

From a young girl navigating her first cycle to a woman adjusting to menopause, Dr. Dutywa provides comprehensive specialist gynaecological care focused on prevention, understanding, and long-term wellbeing.