Women’s health
We offer a wide range of services tailored to your needs.
Welcome to our women’s health service
We offer a wide range of services tailored to your needs, from menopause consultations to comprehensive well-women health checks and contraception care.
Menopause consultations
Our menopause consultations are overseen by Dr. Imogen Shaw, a Menopause Specialist with deep expertise in managing menopause symptoms and treatments. She is supported by our team of experienced GPs. Whether you’re exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT), natural remedies, or need guidance on managing symptoms, we offer personalised, compassionate care to help.
Well-women health checks
We believe that proactive health care is key to maintaining long-term wellness. Our Comprehensive Well-Women Health Check evaluates your overall health, focusing on preventive care and early detection of issues like cardiovascular disease, breast health, and cervical cancer. We also assess your osteoporosis risk. This thorough assessment includes lifestyle advice to help you achieve and maintain optimal health at every stage of life.
You can self-refer to the Nuffield for a screening mammogram.
Sexual and reproductive health
At our clinic, we provide specialised care for all aspects of sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Caroline Cooper, a Women’s Health Doctor with a specialist interest in sexual and reproductive health, leads this service. With extensive experience and a national profile as a lecturer in women’s health, Dr. Cooper ensures that you receive the most current, evidence-based care. This is a 45 minute appointment. Read more here.
Gynaecology appointments
Cervical screening (smear tests)
Cervical screening, commonly known as a smear or Pap test, is a simple and essential test that checks the health of your cervix. The main purpose of this screening is to detect any abnormal cells that could develop into cervical cancer. By identifying these changes early, we can take steps to prevent the development of cancer and protect your overall health.
Contraception clinics
We offer dedicated Contraception Clinics that provide a wide range of contraceptive options to suit your lifestyle and health needs. Our services include both hormonal and non-hormonal contraception options, ensuring that you have the information and support to make the best choice for you.
Coil (IUD) Insertions and Removals:
We offer both hormonal (Mirena, Kyleena) and non-hormonal (copper) coil insertions and removals, ensuring you get a contraceptive solution that suits your preferences and medical needs.
Nexplanon Insertions and Removals:
Our clinic also provides expert insertion and removal of the Nexplanon implant, a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) option that offers effective, hassle-free protection.
At our Women’s Health Clinic, your well-being is our priority. Whether you’re seeking menopause support, a well-women health check, or expert contraception care, we are here to provide compassionate, high-quality care at every stage of life.
Contraception Services
At Cambridge Private Doctors (CPD), we offer a full range of contraception services, including private coil (IUD & IUS) fittings and contraceptive implant procedures. Our highly experienced doctors provide confidential, personalised care to help you choose the option best suited to your lifestyle and health needs.
We provide private fittings for both copper coils (IUDs) and hormonal coils (IUSs) — long-acting, highly reliable methods of contraception that last between 3 and 10 years.
Types of Coils
- Copper Coil (IUD): Hormone-free, effective for 5–10 years, and works immediately after fitting.
- Hormonal Coil (IUS): Releases progestogen. Options include:
- Mirena – effective up to 8 years
- Kyleena – effective up to 5 years
- Jaydess – effective up to 3 years
(Please note: smaller hormonal coils such as Kyleena and Jaydess are not suitable for hormone replacement therapy.)
Benefits
- Over 99% effective
- Long-lasting and discreet
- Suitable during breastfeeding
- Fertility usually returns quickly after removal
- Hormonal coils may reduce or stop periods
- Suitable for women who cannot use oestrogen
What to Expect
- Consultation: Your doctor will discuss the most appropriate option for you, explain the procedure, and answer questions before obtaining consent.
- Pain relief: Anaesthetic gel is used, with further options available if needed.
- Safe setting: All procedures are performed at our CQC-registered clinic in Cambridge.
Prices
- Coil fitting (IUD)- copper coil: £249 (includes consultation, procedure & aftercare advice)
- Coil fitting (IUS)- hormonal coil: £403 (includes consultation, procedure & aftercare advice)
- Coil removal: £275.10
- Coil removal & refitting (same appointment): same as fitting (no extra charge for removal)
- Contraceptive implant insertion: £389
- Contraceptive implant removal: £208
- Implant removal & reinsertion (same appointment): £389
Aftercare
- Avoid intercourse for 24 hours
- Use pads (not tampons) on the first day
- Wait 6 weeks before using a menstrual cup
- Light exercise/swimming usually fine after 24–48 hours
- Always inform radiology staff of your coil before scans
Why Choose Cambridge Private Doctors?
- Fast, discreet appointments with minimal waiting
- Experienced GPs specialising in women’s health
- Central Cambridge location with easy access
- CQC-registered clinic for safe, regulated care
- Personalised support in choosing the right contraception
Contraceptive Implant (Nexplanon)
We also provide insertion and removal of the Nexplanon implant, a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of the upper arm.
Key Facts
- Releases progesterone for up to 3 years
- Over 99% effective
- Can be removed or replaced at any time
- Fertility returns quickly after removal
The Procedure
- A quick, minor procedure using local anaesthetic
- You will receive an implant card with the insertion date and replacement due date
- Minimal scarring — usually fades with time
Aftercare
- Keep the dressing in place and site clean/dry
- Resume normal daily activities quickly
- Report redness, pain, or swelling to your doctor
FAQs
Will the procedure hurt?
Most patients describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful. We use anaesthetic to minimise discomfort, and extra pain relief is available if required.
How soon will it work?
- Copper coil: immediately
- Hormonal coil: immediately if fitted within first 7 days of cycle, otherwise after 7 days
- Implant: immediately if fitted within first 5 days of cycle, otherwise after 7 days
Is it safe while breastfeeding?
Yes — both coil and implant are safe options.
How long will the procedure take?
- Coil fitting: 30 minutes (including consultation)
- Implant fitting/removal: 30 minutes
Will my fertility return afterwards?
Yes — fertility usually returns quickly once removed.
Are there side effects?
Some women notice temporary changes to their periods, particularly with hormonal methods. These usually settle after a few months.
Can I stop anytime?
Yes — both coil and implant can be removed at any stage if you wish to discontinue.
Women’s Health Check (MOT)
A proactive, private health screen for women at every stage of life
Your health, your way — with time to talk
Our Women’s Health Check is a thorough, personalised consultation with an experienced doctor, giving you time and space to discuss any concerns. Whether you’re approaching menopause, experiencing hormonal changes, or just want a full body check-up, this 45–60 minute session is designed to give you peace of mind and practical next steps.
What’s Included?
We tailor your MOT to your age, lifestyle, and risk profile. Common checks include:
Detailed Medical Review
- Past medical and family history
- Menstrual cycle & hormonal health
- Mental wellbeing & stress
- Menopause, perimenopause & HRT advice
- Lifestyle factors: diet, sleep, alcohol, smoking, exercise
Physical Examination
- Blood pressure, BMI & waist measurement
- Breast check & guidance on self-examination
- Pelvic examination if appropriate
Blood Tests
- Full blood count
- Liver, kidney & thyroid function
- Cholesterol profile
- Blood sugar/HbA1c
- Vitamin D & iron stores
- Hormone levels if needed (FSH, LH, oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, SHBG, etc.)
Cervical Smear (optional)
HPV and cytology screening (additional cost)
Other Options
- ECG (heart rhythm test)
- DEXA bone scan referral
- Mammogram or breast ultrasound referral
- Sexual health screening
- Contraception or fertility discussion
Why These Tests?
We only recommend screenings backed by strong clinical evidence and UK national guidelines. Here’s why each test matters:
Breast Awareness & Checks
Routine breast self-exams are no longer recommended, but being breast aware is crucial.
- Breast awareness helps you notice changes early
- Clinical exams may help, but are not a substitute for imaging
- Mammograms are the gold standard from age 50, or earlier if high-risk
We teach you how to self-check and refer for imaging when appropriate
HPV Testing & Cervical Screening
- Over 99% of cervical cancers are caused by high-risk HPV
- HPV testing is now the primary national screening tool
- Cytology is only performed if HPV is present
We offer both in-clinic smears and self-collection HPV kits for convenience.
Ovarian Cancer Screening: Caution Advised
- No screening test has been proven to reduce mortality
- CA-125 blood tests & ultrasounds can produce false alarms
- Focus is on symptom awareness and prompt GP referral
We do not screen routinely, but investigate symptoms thoroughly.
Heart Health for Women
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women — often under-recognised.
- Women may present with subtle or “non-classic” symptoms
- Assessing cholesterol, HbA1c, BP & weight helps identify risk early
→ Our health check screens for key cardiovascular risk factors and provides lifestyle advice.
Other Cancers
- Bowel cancer: screening starts at 60; FIT tests available privately sooner
- Lung cancer: screening in symptomatic, smokers
- Skin checks: offered for those with risk factors or mole concerns
→ We guide you on appropriate referrals if family history or symptoms suggest higher risk.
Meet Our Doctors
- Dr Imogen Shaw – National menopause expert, GP and NICE co-author
- Dr Caroline Cooper – Sexual & reproductive health specialist, coil/implant trainer
- Dr Yvonne Girgis-Hanna- experienced GP and coil/implant fitter
- Dr Mari Flowerdew- experienced GP and coil/implant fitter
- Dr Harinder Virdee- experienced GP and coil/implant fitter
- Dr Fiona Cornish- experienced GP and coil/implant fitter
- Dr Claire Gillvray- experienced GP, Psychiatrist and Lifestyle Specialist
- Dr Emma McGrath- experienced GP
- Dr Fiona MacLeod- experienced GP
- Dr Harriet Bowers- experienced GP
All our doctors are highly experienced, friendly, and focused on giving you clarity and confidence in your health.
How to Book
Appointments are available weekdays at our private clinic in Cambridge.
📍 Nuffield Hospital, 4 Trumpington Road, Cambridge CB2 8AF
📞 01223 967995
📧 [email protected]
Or use our online booking system.
Why Choose Cambridge Private Doctors?
- Unrushed 45–60 minute appointments
- Same-day bloods, fast results
- Confidential and discreet
- Female doctors available
- One-off or ongoing care – no subscription required