Dr Donée Van Bergen

Dr Donée Van Bergen Dr Donée van Bergen (formerly van Rooyen) is an obstetrician-gynaecologist at Mediclinic Cape Town.

Every woman’s, and every couple’s, path to parenthood is deeply personal.There is no single timeline, no single expectat...
23/04/2026

Every woman’s, and every couple’s, path to parenthood is deeply personal.

There is no single timeline, no single expectation, and no single definition of what that journey should look like. Whether you are planning for pregnancy, exploring your fertility, or choosing contraception, having the right guidance allows you to make informed, confident decisions about your future.

Dr Donée offers a considered and supportive approach to fertility and family planning, creating a space where you can ask questions, understand your body, and explore your options without pressure.
This includes:
Fertility assessments and investigations to better understand your reproductive health.
Management and support in cases of recurrent miscarriages.
Ovulation and cycle tracking to guide timing and understanding.
Referrals to accredited fertility specialists when needed.
Contraception counselling and procedures tailored to your lifestyle and goals.
Pre-pregnancy planning to optimise your health before conception.

Dr Donée provides supportive care, from fertility assessments and guidance to contraception and family planning, helping you make informed decisions for your future. To schedule your appointment, contact us directly or use the online booking link in our bio.

The uterus is a dynamic, muscular organ that is constantly adapting, responding and preparing.Although often only though...
20/04/2026

The uterus is a dynamic, muscular organ that is constantly adapting, responding and preparing.

Although often only thought about during your period or pregnancy, your uterus is continuously active, guided by carefully regulated hormonal signals. At any given time, one of two primary processes is taking place.
If pregnancy does not occur, the menstrual cycle continues. Hormones stimulate the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) to thicken, becoming rich in blood and nutrients in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
If fertilisation does not take place, hormone levels (particularly estrogen and progesterone) begin to decline. This signals the uterus to shed this lining, resulting in your period.
This cycle repeats itself continuously, with the menstrual phase typically lasting between three to seven days.

If pregnancy does occur, the role of the uterus shifts significantly.
A fertilised egg travels from the fallopian tube and implants into the prepared lining of the uterus. From this point, the uterus becomes a supportive environment for growth and development. A structure roughly the size of a fist begins to expand and stretch, eventually reaching the size of a watermelon by the third trimester.
Blood vessels and uterine glands develop further to nourish and sustain the pregnancy. When it is time for birth, the uterus takes on another role. The muscular walls contract in a coordinated, rhythmic way to help dilate the cervix and guide the baby through the birth canal.
After delivery, these contractions continue to allow the placenta to be expelled.
Following pregnancy, the uterus begins recovery.

This is a continuous cycle of preparation, support, and restoration. Your uterus is responsive, adaptive, and constantly working - often without you even realising it.

Your period is one of your body’s most important vital signs.Bleeding between periods, also known as intermenstrual blee...
19/04/2026

Your period is one of your body’s most important vital signs.
Bleeding between periods, also known as intermenstrual bleeding, refers to any va**nal bleeding that happens outside of your normal menstrual cycle.
It’s something many women experience at some point and while it’s often not serious, it is not something that should be ignored.

There are a number of possible causes, including:
Hormonal fluctuations, especially if your cycle is still regulating.
Hormonal contraception.
Infections or inflammation.
Minor injury to the cervix or va**nal tissue.
Other causes may include conditions such as endometriosis, uterine or cervical polyps, fibroids, or, in some cases, early pregnancy complications such as an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.
Because there are several possible explanations, the most important step is understanding the cause. This may involve:
Testing for infections or sexually transmitted infections.
A cervical screening (Pap smear) to assess for abnormal cells.
Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels or overall health.
A pregnancy test.
An ultrasound to assess the uterus and ovaries.

While many causes of intermenstrual bleeding are not serious, it is always important to have it assessed. If you notice bleeding between your periods, it’s worth having a conversation with your gynaecologist.

Your story matters. And you don’t have to carry it alone.In South Africa, far too many women are affected by sexual viol...
12/04/2026

Your story matters. And you don’t have to carry it alone.

In South Africa, far too many women are affected by sexual violence. Many survivors don’t speak about their experience right away and some may only feel ready years later. There is no timeline for when you should seek support.

Your gynaecologist’s office can be a place of safety, confidentiality, and understanding. Whether your experience is recent or in the past, you are welcome to speak openly, at your own pace, without judgement. Dr Donée provides compassionate, professional care with a special focus on supporting patients who have experienced sexual trauma. Consultations are approached with sensitivity, respect, and complete privacy - always centred around your comfort and control.
Support may include medical care, guidance, and referrals to trusted mental health professionals when needed.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or gender-based violence, support is available. We’ve included the Tears Foundation link in our bio for access to resources and assistance.

Your body is constantly sending signals, not to work against you, but to guide you.Symptoms are often your body’s way of...
08/04/2026

Your body is constantly sending signals, not to work against you, but to guide you.
Symptoms are often your body’s way of asking for attention, balance, or support.

Acne: Hormonal shifts throughout your cycle can affect oil production and skin inflammation.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness may be connected to hormonal imbalances, thyroid function, iron levels, or even heavy menstrual bleeding.
Low libido: Sexual desire is influenced by multiple factors, including hormones, stress, emotional wellbeing, relationship dynamics, and physical health. Changes in libido are common, but understanding the cause can help guide the right support.
Insomnia: Sleep disturbances can be influenced by hormonal shifts, particularly progesterone and estrogen, as well as stress, anxiety, or perimenopause-related changes.

Every woman’s body is different, and these symptoms don’t exist in isolation. If something feels persistent, unusual, or disruptive to your daily life, it’s worth exploring further.

Your body is not failing you. It is communicating with you.

From early planning through to pregnancy, birth and postnatal recovery, every stage brings its own changes, questions an...
06/04/2026

From early planning through to pregnancy, birth and postnatal recovery, every stage brings its own changes, questions and decisions. Having the right support during this time can make all the difference.
Dr Donée offers a personalised, considered approach to pregnancy care and obstetrics, ensuring that you feel informed, supported and understood throughout your journey.

This is not just about clinical care. It’s about creating a space where you feel comfortable to ask questions, share concerns, and navigate each stage of pregnancy with confidence. No two pregnancies are the same, and your care should reflect that.

To schedule your appointment, contact us directly or use the online booking link in our bio.

Mediclinic Cape Town | Room A110

Pregnancy brings profound changes to the body - physically and emotionally. From changes in concentration and mood, to s...
05/04/2026

Pregnancy brings profound changes to the body - physically and emotionally. From changes in concentration and mood, to shifts in your skin, joints and circulation, your body is constantly adapting to support new life. Hormones such as estrogen & progesterone play an essential role throughout this process, but they also influence how you function day to day.

Emotional changes during pregnancy are just as important as physical ones. If you ever feel overwhelmed, persistently low, or unsure about what you are experiencing, it is important to speak to your obstetrician. Support is always available.

Stopping hormonal contraception is often spoken about in physical terms, but the emotional shifts deserve just as much a...
04/04/2026

Stopping hormonal contraception is often spoken about in physical terms, but the emotional shifts deserve just as much attention. Any form of hormone-based contraception, whether it’s the pill, patch, va**nal ring, hormonal IUD or injection, works by regulating your hormones. When you stop, your body transitions from a controlled, stable hormonal environment back to its natural, fluctuating cycle.

Some women experience what is often referred to as a temporary “post-contraception adjustment phase,” where the body is re-establishing its own rhythm. During this time, symptoms such as mood changes, irregular cycles, acne, or shifts in energy can occur. It’s important to understand that this experience is highly individual. Your response will depend on your unique hormonal profile, how long you were on contraception, the type you used, and any symptoms you may have had before starting.
From an emotional perspective, you may notice:
Increased mood sensitivity, anxiety, irritability, or low mood.
Premenstrual symptoms such as PMS or PMDD may feel more intense during this transition. These can include fatigue, sleep disturbances, feeling overwhelmed, reduced motivation, changes in libido, or a loss of interest in things you usually enjoy. During this phase, it becomes especially important to approach yourself with awareness and compassion.
You are not your thoughts, and these feelings are often cyclical and temporary.

While some changes are expected, you should not feel like you have to manage everything on your own. If your symptoms are severe, persist beyond a few months, or begin to impact your daily functioning, it is important to seek guidance. As a general guide, allow your body around three months to readjust. If your cycle has not returned, or symptoms feel overwhelming, a consultation can help us understand what your body needs.

Many women grow up believing that painful periods are simply part of being a woman. But pain that disrupts your daily li...
02/04/2026

Many women grow up believing that painful periods are simply part of being a woman. But pain that disrupts your daily life is not something you should have to tolerate.

Period pain often presents as cramping or throbbing in the lower abdomen, but it can also extend beyond that. Lower back pain, pain radiating down the thighs, nausea, diarrhoea, headaches, dizziness and fatigue are all commonly associated symptoms.
In many cases, this pain is due to primary dysmenorrhoea, where increased prostaglandin levels cause the uterus to contract more intensely.

However, more severe or persistent pain may be linked to secondary causes, including conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, adenomyosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. These are not conditions to overlook, and early evaluation can make a meaningful difference.

Sometimes your body may present symptoms that don’t immediately seem related to your reproductive health. But your body communicates through these signals, and they are worth paying attention to.

You do not need to normalise discomfort that affects your quality of life.

Regular check-ups remain an important part of protecting your long-term health. Speak openly about your symptoms during your consultation.

There is a lot of anxiety around Pap smears and most of it comes from the unknown. Let’s talk about what actually happen...
31/03/2026

There is a lot of anxiety around Pap smears and most of it comes from the unknown. Let’s talk about what actually happens and what to expect.

A Pap smear is a screening test for cervical cancer and HPV (Human Papillomavirus). During the examination:
A speculum is gently inserted into the va**na to allow your doctor to see the cervix.
A small sample of cells is then taken from the cervix for testing.
It may feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar, but it should not be painful.

This is not just another test. It is one of the most important tools we have to detect early changes and prevent cervical cancer.

If you’ve been putting it off, consider this your reminder to schedule your appointment.

A little piece of my heart to share with you.After a long four-year journey, I have officially changed my surname to van...
29/03/2026

A little piece of my heart to share with you.

After a long four-year journey, I have officially changed my surname to van Bergen - the surname of the man who has loved, raised and supported me as my father for so many years.

This change is deeply personal. It is not simply administrative, and it is not only about a name. It is about love, belonging, gratitude, and honouring someone who has played such a significant role in my life.

Some of you may notice my surname changing from now on, and I wanted to share the reason why. This is still the same doctor you know and trust, just with a name that now feels more like home.

My care for my patients, and the way I show up in this space, remains exactly the same - with the same compassion, commitment and heart. Thank you for being part of my journey, both personally and professionally.

Dr Donée van Bergen

Your body deserves to be understood, not feared.Learning about your reproductive system empowers you to make informed ch...
01/03/2026

Your body deserves to be understood, not feared.
Learning about your reproductive system empowers you to make informed choices, advocate for your health, and feel more in control at every stage of life. 💛

📍 Dr Donée van Rooyen | Mediclinic Cape Town
🔗 Book online | Link in bio

Address

Mediclinic Cape Town Room A110 21 Hof Street Oranjezicht
Cape Town
8001

Opening Hours

Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+27210651857

Website

https://mygc.co.za/external/diary/66407956-b734-48f9-a650-48749e21e8cf

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