Dr Gary Swift Fertility Clinic

27/08/2025

Endometriosis doesn’t just cause pelvic pain and heavy periods. When it affects the bladder, symptoms can include:

• Burning or pain when urinating (especially during your period)
• Needing to urinate urgently or more often
• Blood in urine during menstruation

These symptoms are often mistaken for recurrent UTIs. But if they flare around your cycle, endometriosis may be part of the picture.
Getting the right diagnosis matters, because bladder endometriosis can be treated.

24/08/2025

Endometriosis doesn’t just affect periods. When it grows near or on the bowel, it can cause:
• Pain with bowel movements
• Bloating that comes and goes (often called “endo belly”)
• Alternating constipation and diarrhoea
• Re**al bleeding during your period

These symptoms are often mistaken for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The difference is that in endo, they usually flare around your cycle.

If your gut symptoms seem linked to your period, it’s worth exploring whether endometriosis could be part of the picture.

22/08/2025

Age matters when it comes to fertility, but it’s not the only factor. Hormones, ovulation, s***m health, uterine environment, and underlying conditions like endometriosis or PCOS all play a role.

That’s why a fertility assessment isn’t about a single number or test. It often includes:
• AMH levels to estimate ovarian reserve
• Ultrasound to check ovaries and uterus
• Hormone blood tests for ovulation patterns
• Semen analysis when relevant
• A review of medical history and overall health

For some women, reassurance is the outcome. For others, it’s a roadmap to next steps. Whether that’s optimising health, considering egg or s***m freezing, or planning treatment.

If you’ve been trying to conceive, or simply want to understand your fertility better, an assessment is a good place to start. You can book an appointment with us by calling 07 55 649 683.

12/08/2025

What does an ovarian cyst feel like when it bursts?

A ruptured ovarian cyst can cause sudden, sharp, one-sided pelvic pain, sometimes followed by a dull ache or bloating. You might feel faint, nauseous, or notice light bleeding.

Not every cyst that bursts needs surgery. Many resolve on their own with rest and observation. But if pain is intense or persistent, a scan can help rule out complications.

10/08/2025

09/08/2025

Endo pain can come on suddenly and feel very different from a typical period.

Some women describe it as deep, burning pain that radiates into the back or legs. Others feel nauseous, bloated, or fatigued for days. It can be triggered by hormones, stress, bowel movements, or even certain foods.

If your pain stops you from doing normal things, or if it feels unpredictable and hard to manage, it’s time to talk to a gynaecologist who specialises in endo. There are ways to reduce inflammation and calm flares, not just mask them.

07/08/2025

A tilted uterus (also called a retroverted uterus) is a common anatomical variation and for most women, it doesn’t affect fertility at all.

It simply means the uterus leans back instead of forward. Some people are born this way. Others develop it after childbirth, pelvic surgery, or infection.

A tilted uterus is rarely a problem on its own. But if it’s connected to underlying conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, or scar tissue (adhesions), it may cause:
• Deep pain during s*x
• Discomfort during menstruation
• Pressure or fullness in the pelvis
• Difficulty using menstrual cups or tampons

Even then, it doesn’t mean conception isn’t possible but it’s worth checking if you’re experiencing symptoms or trying to conceive without success.

It’s not something you need to “fix,” but understanding your anatomy can help guide care that’s more informed and more comfortable.

03/08/2025

Can Endometriosis Affect Your Bowel?

If your period pain comes with bowel changes - constipation, diarrhoea, pain with bowel movements, or even bleeding - it could be endometriosis affecting the bowel.
This form of endo is often missed or misdiagnosed as IBS. It requires careful imaging and often specialist surgical care.

Symptoms can show up throughout your cycle, not just during your period. If you're struggling, don’t dismiss it. Especially if symptoms are getting worse with time.

31/07/2025

Now that we have your attention…

At our clinic, we use 3D transvaginal imaging to get a clearer view of the uterus and ovaries, especially when we're investigating things like:
• Recurrent miscarriage
• Suspected fibroids or polyps
• Uterine shape or structure that might affect fertility

It’s also used in early pregnancy, when a standard tummy scan can’t see much yet. This helps us:
• Confirm the pregnancy is in the right place
• Check for a heartbeat and early growth
• Monitor things if there’s pain, bleeding or a history of loss

This type of scan helps us understand what’s really going on inside which means more accurate diagnoses, and better decisions about your next steps.

And if you’re wondering about the wand…Yes, it looks a bit intense, but it’s actually slim, quick, and most women find it far more comfortable than they expect. We talk you through the whole process and keep things calm, respectful and at your pace.

30/07/2025

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when the bladder, uterus or bowel slips down into the vaginal space, and is often due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. It can feel like heaviness, a dragging sensation, or pressure “down there.”

It’s more common than people realise, especially after childbirth, menopause or pelvic surgery.

There are different types of prolapse, and not all require surgery. Early intervention with pelvic floor physiotherapy, pessary fitting, or lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference.

If something feels “off” or you notice changes after standing, coughing or lifting, it’s worth checking in with your gynaecologist.