How to Choose a Gynae in Singapore: 8 Essential Tips

It's understandable if you're feeling confused about choosing a gynaecologist. After all, whether you're seeking care for a specific women's health issue or planning a pregnancy, you'll want a doctor who listens to you and understands your needs. To help you, let's look at the various factors you need to consider so you can make an informed choice and find a doctor who is the right fit for you.

What is a gynae and when should you see one?

A gynae, or gynaecologist, is a doctor who specialises in women’s reproductive health. They treat conditions involving the female reproductive system, such as menstrual disorders, pelvic pain, and fertility concerns. Many gynaecologists are also trained in obstetrics, which means that they provide care during pregnancy, including antenatal check-ups and delivery. These doctors are known as obstetricians and gynaecologists, or O&G for short.

When to start seeing a gynaecologist

It is generally recommended that girls have their first appointment when they first start menstruating, around the ages of 13 to 15. This initial appointment is often educational, providing an opportunity to understand their menstrual cycle and ask questions about puberty, hygiene, and reproductive health. It also provides an opportunity to discuss any concerns or symptoms, such as pain or irregular periods, early on.

Women that are aged 25 and above, especially those who are sexually active, should start regular screening and check-ups. Annual visits are recommended for routine health assessments, pelvic examinations, Pap smears, and discussions about contraception or any other concerns, such as pain or unusual bleeding. 

Starting in your mid-20s can help with the early detection of conditions such as infections and cysts. It can also provide peace of mind and enable you to take a proactive approach to your health.

Now that we understand what gynaecologists do and when to see one, the next step is to find the right doctor for you. This is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs, preferences, and comfort levels. To help you make this important decision, here are eight tips to consider when choosing a gynaecologist.

#1: Professional credentials checklist

Focusing on professional credentials is essential to finding a qualified, experienced doctor you can trust. Knowing which credentials to look for, where to seek referrals, and how to assess a doctor's reputation can provide you with the solid foundation to make an informed decision that suits your health needs. Below are some guidelines that you can follow.

Credentials

A quick online search usually shows the doctor's profile or website listing their professional credentials and sub-specialisations. You may look out for the specific qualifications below that demonstrate their expertise and training in women’s health, obstetrics, and gynaecology.

• Basic medical degree:

  • MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) or equivalent from a recognised university, which forms the basis of their medical training. 

• Postgraduate qualifications:

  • MMed (O&G), MRCOG (UK), or FRCOG (UK), which demonstrate that the doctor has specialised training in O&G. 

• Medical council registrations:

  • Accreditation as a specialist with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) and the Specialists Accreditation Board (SAB), which ensures that doctors are qualified to practise as specialists. 

Referrals

Personal and word-of-mouth recommendations from family, friends, or relatives can provide insights based on their real experiences, helping you to compile a shortlist of doctors who are respected, empathetic, and competent. Your General Practitioner (GP) can also recommend an O&G specialist who is suited to your health needs.

Online reviews

Reading reviews and sifting through online forums can give you an idea of what other patients have experienced and how satisfied they were with the doctor's care. You should also take the doctor's hospital affiliations into consideration, as doctors usually perform procedures and treatments at their affiliated hospitals.

Taking the above factors into account can help you to select a gynaecologist whose qualifications and approach align with your expectations and needs.

To learn more about the obstetrics and gynaecology specialists, visit our find an expert page to view our doctor profiles. Alternatively, you may get in touch with our medical concierge service for personalised matching to find a gynae that suits your needs.

#2: Public vs private hospital

Your choice between a public and a private hospital can impact your overall experience in several ways. Your ability to choose your gynaecologist, the expected waiting times and the type of care you receive will be different between public and private hospitals. Understanding these factors will help you decide which setting best fits your needs and priorities.

Choice of gynaecologist

In public hospitals, you are usually unable to choose your own gynaecologist and instead receive care from a team of doctors. However, private hospitals allow you to select a specific O&G of your choice. This means you can request a doctor who best suits your preferences, which increases the likelihood of continuity of care and enables you to build a closer relationship with your preferred doctor.

Waiting time

Public hospitals often have longer waiting times due to higher patient volumes, which can be stressful if you want quick medical attention. Private hospitals generally provide shorter waits, helping to reduce anxiety and deliver prompt care.

Type of care

Private hospitals typically offer more personalised attention and continuity with the same doctor. Public hospitals also provide excellent care but may feel less personal because of shared care models and larger caseloads.

#3: Cost

When planning your healthcare journey, it is important to take into consideration the costs involved in gynaecological care. This includes main financial considerations, such as insurance coverage, government healthcare schemes, and private insurance options in Singapore.

Governmental schemes

Government schemes such as MediSave and MediShield Life provide financial support for medical expenses incurred at public hospitals. However, these schemes usually do not apply to treatment in private hospitals, meaning patients who choose private care typically need to rely on private insurance or pay for treatment themselves.

Private insurance

Private insurance plans, including Integrated Shield Plans and corporate insurance schemes, provide additional coverage on top of what is covered by government schemes. Typically, such plans provide coverage for private hospital stays, specialist fees, and treatments that are not publicly funded. 

While these plans often offer more thorough coverage, the details of each policy vary, so make sure to check with your insurance agent or consult your policy document.

Private hospital versus public hospital cost

Below outlines the typical cost of commonly performed gynaecological procedures in private and public hospitals in Singapore for Singaporeans.

Costs are approximate and can vary depending on the hospital, the doctor's fees, and insurance coverage. Public hospitals typically have lower costs due to subsidies, while private hospitals have shorter waiting times and offer more personalised services. 

Understanding the financial aspects and available insurance options will help you to prepare for your gynaecological care journey more effectively.

For more detailed information about procedure costs, please contact our medical concierge team. They can provide personalised assistance and answer your specific questions to help ensure that you understand the financial aspects of your care clearly.

#4: Facilities and delivery considerations

When choosing where to give birth, it’s important to consider the facilities available at the hospital or birthing centre. Not all hospitals offer the same options or specialised care packages, so it's important to check whether your preferred method of birth is available.

Having facilities that support your preferred birth plan, with experienced staff and the relevant equipment, can significantly contribute to your comfort and the safety of both yourself and your baby. Discussing your birth preferences with your obstetrician early on will help to ensure that the hospital aligns with your delivery goals.

#5: Patient experience factors

Private hospitals often provide a more comfortable setting with additional amenities. Another plus point is that they allow consistent access to your chosen doctor, which lends you a greater peace of mind. Public hospitals, on the other hand, focus on midwifery-led care models. 

Both systems have their strengths, so consider what matters most to you, whether that's personalised amenities and continuity of care with your chosen doctor or comprehensive support within a team-based care environment.

Your doctor's communication and personality

How well your doctor listens to you, explains things to you and respects your preferences will have a significant impact on your experience with care. Whether in a public or private setting, finding an O&G whose communication style and personality you are comfortable with can help to build trust and make you feel truly cared for throughout your healthcare journey.

#6: Scheduling and availability

How fast and easily you can book an appointment with your doctor is an important consideration when dealing with potentially time-sensitive gynaecological issues. Private hospitals usually offer faster appointment scheduling, often enabling you to arrange consultations within days or weeks. This speed and flexibility can reduce anxiety and provide quicker access to care.

Public hospitals tend to have longer waiting times due to higher patient numbers and limited resources. Appointments may need to be booked weeks or even months in advance, particularly for specialist consultations. While public care remains highly effective, patients seeking timely consultations often find private options more convenient.

Considering the urgency of your medical needs, cost and your preferred healthcare environment can help you choose the best option for your situation.

#7: Specialised care requirements

Specialised care is essential in certain pregnancy situations where additional monitoring and expertise are required. This section explores key areas such as managing high-risk pregnancies and supporting vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

High-risk pregnancy management

Managing a high-risk pregnancy requires more frequent monitoring, specialised tests, and collaboration between doctors from different departments to ensure the safety of both you and your baby. Consulting your O&G early on will help determine the most suitable care setting for your needs.

VBAC

A Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC) is when you deliver a baby vaginally after having previously given birth by caesarean section. Although it offers the chance to avoid repeat surgery and allows for a quicker recovery, it requires careful monitoring due to potential risks. 

Whether or not you opt for a VBAC depends on your health and pregnancy, as well as the experience of your healthcare team.

If you’re considering a VBAC or have concerns about a high-risk pregnancy, our specialists at Thomson Medical can help provide personalised advice on delivery options that suit your needs. Request an appointment today to find out how we can support your unique pregnancy journey.

#8: Thomson Medical’s O&G specialists

Our O&G specialists are dedicated to providing you with the personalised care that you deserve. From routine gynaecological check-ups, pregnancy management and fertility, our team of specialists can support you throughout the various stages of your life.

Choosing the right gynaecologist for you is an important and personal decision that will influence your health journey. Understanding the differences between public and private hospitals, including their style of care, appointment availability, specialised options, and clinic locations, will help you to make an informed choice that best fits your lifestyle and needs.

Ultimately, it boils down to finding a trustworthy gynaecologist who listens and understands your unique medical concerns and respects your preferences. With careful consideration and the right support, you can navigate your reproductive health with confidence.

FAQ

How much does it cost to see a gynaecologist in Singapore?

Consultation fees with a private gynaecologist typically range from SGD 120 to SGD 350, depending on the clinic and complexity of the case. Public hospital consultations may be subsidised and are generally cheaper, ranging from SGD 25 to SGD 100 for antenatal visits.

When should I see a gynae after a positive pregnancy test?

It is recommended that you see a gynaecologist around six to eight weeks after a positive pregnancy test to start prenatal care and ensure early monitoring of your pregnancy.

Where to find gynae recommendations Singapore

Word-of-mouth recommendations from your trusted circle of close friends or family could provide you with their personal experiences and insights on the doctor. Alternatively, you may turn to online forums for reviews and patient feedback.

What are the signs that I should see a gynaecologist urgently?

You should seek urgent consultation with a gynaecologist immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms such as dizziness and fainting during pregnancy.

Can I consult a gynaecologist without a referral?

Yes, in Singapore, you can see a gynaecologist directly at private clinics without a referral. However, some public hospitals may require a referral from a general practitioner.

How often should I have a routine gynaecological check-up?

It is generally recommended to start having annual gynaecological check-ups from the age of 25, or earlier if sexually active. Regular visits help with early detection of issues such as infections, cervical abnormalities, and other reproductive health concerns, ensuring timely treatment and peace of mind.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations from an O&G specialist for your medical condition, schedule an appointment at the Thomson Women’s Clinic.