Women undergoing major gynaecological surgery need counselling before and after their procedures to help them prepare and cope with the emotional effects, Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) midwife Debbie Haley has said.
In a post on its Facebook page, the hospital highlighted Haley’s call for care that extends beyond surgery, alongside her appeal for women to discuss health concerns without fear or embarrassment.
Haley, who has nearly four decades of nursing experience and has assisted with more than 1,000 deliveries, pointed particularly to the support women may need when undergoing a hysterectomy, which involves removal of the uterus.
According to the post, she said counselling, reassurance and emotional support were important both in preparing patients for the procedure and during recovery.
The role of counselling in major gynaecological treatment has previously been highlighted at GPHC. Stabroek News reported in December 2023 that a 44-year-old Essequibo Coast woman underwent extensive counselling and consultations before surgery to remove a large intra-abdominal tumour. The hospital said the risks, benefits and possible outcomes were explained to the patient and her family before the operation.
Haley also encouraged women to recognise changes in their bodies and seek medical assessment when symptoms differ from their usual experience, including menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than normal or changes significantly.
Understanding their normal patterns could help women identify concerns requiring professional attention, the hospital’s post said.
She urged women not to allow embarrassment, cultural expectations or social taboos to prevent them from seeking care. Some patients might feel uncomfortable discussing intimate concerns, including with male doctors, she acknowledged.
Patients should feel safe and respected during consultations and, where possible, could communicate a preference for a female healthcare provider.
The hospital said Haley’s work includes counselling and education to help women understand challenges associated with menstruation, infertility, menopause and gynaecological surgery, and make informed decisions about their care.
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