Patient Education

Expert Insights & Patient Resources

Educational resources to help you understand your health and treatment options.

Educational Resources NoticeAll educational materials on this page are provided for general information only. They do not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations from a qualified healthcare professional.
Featured Video

This educational discussion, published by Target Ovarian Cancer in August 2023, features expert insights to help patients get the most from their treatment experience and conversations with their clinical team.

This video is published by Target Ovarian Cancer and is presented here for educational purposes. The content represents the views of the contributors in that video and does not constitute individual medical advice.

Ask the Experts: Getting the Most Out of Treatment — Target Ovarian Cancer, August 2023 Watch on YouTube ↗
Trusted Resources

The following external links lead to reputable patient information resources. These have been selected for their reliability but their content is maintained independently.

Target Ovarian Cancer ↗

Patient information and support for ovarian cancer.

NHS — Gynaecological Cancers ↗

NHS patient information on gynaecological conditions and cancers.

Cancer Research UK ↗

Evidence-based information on gynaecological cancers.

Macmillan Cancer Support ↗

Support and information for cancer patients and their families.

Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust ↗

Information and support for those affected by cervical cancer and cervical cell changes.

The Eve Appeal ↗

The UK's leading gynaecological cancer charity.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The following general questions are answered for educational purposes only. Individual medical advice should always come from a qualified healthcare professional.

At a first consultation, you can expect to discuss your symptoms, medical history and any concerns you have. A clinical examination may be offered where relevant. Your consultant will explain any recommended investigations and discuss potential next steps. You are always entitled to ask questions and take time to consider your options.
Symptoms that may warrant gynaecological assessment include abnormal or irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating that is persistent or unusual for you, changes in bladder or bowel habits, and unexpected weight loss. However, many of these symptoms have non-serious causes. If you have concerns about any symptoms, speaking with your GP or a specialist is always recommended. This information is general and educational — it is not a substitute for individual medical assessment.
Cervical screening (sometimes called a smear test or Pap test) is a health check that examines cells from the cervix to identify any changes that, if left untreated, could develop into cervical cancer. It is generally recommended for eligible individuals at regular intervals as part of national screening programmes. If you receive an abnormal result, this does not necessarily mean cancer — your healthcare provider will explain the next steps, which may include colposcopy.
Trusted sources of patient information include NHS.uk, Target Ovarian Cancer, Cancer Research UK and Macmillan Cancer Support. These organisations provide evidence-based, regularly reviewed information for patients and their families.

Have Questions About Your Care?

If you have concerns about your gynaecological health, please consult your GP or arrange a specialist consultation. Educational resources are not a substitute for professional advice.

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