How to Choose a Gynaecologist in London: What to Know Before Your First Appointment

Quick answer: To choose a gynaecologist in London, check that the doctor is on the GMC Specialist Register, that the clinic is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and that their special interests match your symptoms. Then confirm fees, insurer recognition and whether you need a GP referral. Mr Mahantesh Karoshi (MBBS, MD, FRCOG, GMC 5199074) is a consultant gynaecologist who sees private patients at 108 Harley Street, The London Clinic and the Royal Free London Private Patients Unit.

Most people find a private gynaecologist through a search, a friend or their insurer. A few minutes of checking first can save money and a wasted appointment. This guide covers what to check, what to bring and what happens at a first consultation.

Mr Karoshi at a glance

What happens during a gynaecology appointment

A first appointment is mostly a conversation, and it ends with a plan.

• History: periods, pain, bladder and bowel symptoms, sex, contraception and past pregnancies.

• Examination, if it will help: usually the abdomen, sometimes an internal check with a speculum.

• Discussion: likely causes and which tests would confirm them.

• Plan: tests, treatment options or a follow-up, with a letter to your GP if you agree.

Intimate examinations follow GMC guidance. The doctor must explain why the examination is needed and what it involves, get your consent, and offer a chaperone, usually a trained health professional. You can ask for a friend or relative to be there as well. You can ask to stop at any time, decline, or leave it for a later visit.

Which tests may be discussed or arranged

Which tests you're offered depends on your symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a GP referral to see a private gynaecologist?

Not always. Self-pay patients often don't need a GP referral to see a private gynaecologist in London, though a GP letter with your history still helps. If you're claiming on private medical insurance, your insurer will usually ask for one and give you an authorisation number. Check with your insurer, then contact Mr Karoshi's team to book.

What should I bring to my first gynaecology appointment?

Bring your medicines and contraception list, the date your last period started, a symptom diary, previous scan or blood results and the date of your last cervical screening. Insured patients need a GP referral and an authorisation number. For a consultation with Mr Karoshi in London, a written list of questions helps too.

Will I need an examination at my first appointment?

Not always. It depends on your symptoms, and some first consultations happen by video. If an internal examination would help, GMC guidance says the doctor must explain why, get your consent and offer a chaperone. You can decline, delay it or ask to stop at any time. This applies to every gynaecologist in London, including Mr Karoshi.

What tests can a private gynaecologist arrange?

A private gynaecologist in London can arrange blood tests, ultrasound scans, swabs, hysteroscopy with biopsy, MRI scans and, where needed, laparoscopy. Mr Karoshi performs outpatient hysteroscopy and keyhole surgery. Tests are usually billed separately from the consultation fee, so ask for prices before you go ahead.

Book a consultation: Mr Mahantesh Karoshi, Consultant Gynaecologist, 108 Harley Street, London W1G 7ET. Also at The London Clinic, the Royal Free London Private Patients Unit, London Medical and Hadley Wood Hospital, with video appointments available. Phone line open 24 hours: 020 7030 3560. Email info@mahanteshkaroshi.co.uk.

This article is for general information. It doesn't replace a consultation or examination by a doctor. If you think you need urgent care, call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.