Dr I-Ferne Tan: Gynaecologist Sydney

​​As a women's health specialist, we treat conditions of the female reproductive organs. This covers contraception, period pain disorders, abnormal periods, menopause, incontinence and prolapse. 

We assist your GP with expert advice and management if you have an abnormal Pap smear, STI test or pelvic exam.

Many women will seek gynaecology services after a referral from their GP. Any patient with gynaecological problems (like mentioned above) or reproductive health concerns should chat with their doctor about seeing a gynaecologist.

“Best” is subjective. We all want someone smart, skilled, wise, and up-to-date with the latest advances. But here are some other things to consider:

• Trust: This can be an intimidating journey, so choose someone you feel safe and supported by.

• Consulting style and bedside manner: Some doctors are quick, direct, and matter-of-fact. Some are chatty and laid back. There is no right or wrong, but it’s important to find someone who resonates with you.

• Special interest and expertise: Gynaecology is broad. While we all study the entire syllabus, we tend to focus on and develop expertise in certain areas. For example, if you have endometriosis, you’re likely better off seeing an endometriosis surgeon than a menopause expert.

Gynaecologists offer medical and surgical management of gynaecological issues. Some specialise in fertility, keyhole surgery, ultrasound, menopause, or cancer.

Gynecological exams can differ based on what needs to be checked. The speculum, which opens the vaginal walls, is commonly used to see inside.

A Pap smear involves using the speculum to collect a cell sample from the cervix for cancer screening. 

If you’re experiencing pain or bleeding, your gynaecologist might provide a pelvic exam. This involves a speculum, plus a manual check of the abdomen and pelvis to assess the uterus and ovaries. 

If a Pap smear shows abnormalities, a colposcopy may follow. A magnifying tool helps examine the cervix, and your gynaecologist may take a small tissue sample.

An internal ultrasound (transvaginal ultrasound) uses a small probe inserted into the vagina to create detailed images of the uterus and ovaries. This helps identify conditions like cysts or fibroids.