OBGYN consultant gives advice for women waiting for specialist care
More than 750,000 women are currently waiting for hospital gynaecology services, including routine, non-cancer referrals.
In England alone, over 580,000 people are waiting for non-cancer gynaecology treatment, with almost half waiting beyond the NHS target of 18 weeks, and more than 18,000 women have been waiting for over a year.
“These are not just numbers,” says Dr Hisham Abouzeid, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Transform Femme.
“They represent women whose pain has been normalised or dismissed.
“Delays in care do not just prolong discomfort; they can allow conditions to worsen and affect every aspect of a woman’s physical, emotional and social life.”
Here are five key things every woman should consider when making that choice, according to Dr Hisham Abouzeid:
1. Check waiting times
Long waiting lists can delay diagnosis and worsen outcomes.
Ask potential providers about average waiting times for consultation and treatment.
Specialist clinics often offer appointments within weeks, not months, ensuring faster access to care when it matters most
2. Look for specialist expertise
Women’s health is complex and deeply personal.
Choose a provider with dedicated gynaecologists or surgeons who specialise in female anatomy, hormones and reproductive health.
Credentials such as FRCOG (Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) signal advanced expertise.
3. Prioritise continuity and compassion
Women should never feel rushed or dismissed.
Select a clinic that offers continuity of care, ideally seeing the same consultant throughout treatment, and values empathy, respect and patient dignity
4. Understand the environment and aftercare
A calm, private environment can make a huge difference to recovery and mental wellbeing. Look for CQC-registered clinics that also provide home-based aftercare or remote support options for a seamless, supportive experience
5. Ask about transparency and cost clarity
If you decide to go private avoid hidden fees and vague estimates. Trusted providers offer clear, fixed pricing and are upfront about all costs, helping to build confidence and provide peace of mind from the start
“At Transform Femme, we remove one of the biggest barriers to women’s health – time,” says Dr Abouzeid.
“When women receive timely, expert care, it does not just improve their health; it restores their confidence, relationships and quality of life.”
Specialist care for women is not just about medicine; it is about empowerment. When women receive timely, expert care, they regain comfort, confidence and freedom from pain.
“Women deserve healthcare that honours their physical and emotional wellbeing,” adds Dr Abouzeid.
“At Transform Femme, we believe the silent wait must end. Because when women are cared for properly, they do not just heal, they thrive.”
