Below are some of our Frequently Asked Questions

If your question isn’t answered below, please contact Kate through the contact tab or email at kate.vanharselaar@intus.co.nz

Gynaecology

  • A gynaecologist is a doctor who specialises in diagnosing a treating women’s health condition of the ovaries, uterus, cervical vaginal and vulval.

  • I treat a wide range of women’s health issues, including menstrual irregularities, pelvic pain, PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, menopause symptoms, and abnormal bleeding.

  • You can self-refer through our ‘Contact Us’ section, or have a referral sent through from another health provider.

  • A Gynaecologist is a Doctor who has specialised in women’s health. They are trained medically and surgically. A General Practitioner (GP) has a breadth of knowledge across all areas of medicine. A GP would refer to a Gynaecologist where a specialist opinion or surgical intervention is required

  • The public system is under resourced and stretched. The threshold to get treatment is high and wait times are often long.

    There are many advantages to private healthcare. Continuity of care is guaranteed. There are minimal delays in being seen and/or having treatment. You will come away from your first appointment having a true understanding of where you are at, what your condition means and what your treatment options are.

    • Some common reasons include:

      • Irregular periods or heavy bleeding

      • Pelvic pain or discomfort

      • Pain during intercourse

      • Fertility concerns

      • Pregnancy planning or issues

      • Menopause-related symptoms

      • Infections (e.g., yeast infections, STIs)

      • Contraception options

  • A cervical smear is a screening test for cervical cancer. The guidelines have changed and now a vaginal self swab is done,to detect the HPV virus. If this is present then a cervical smear needs to be done. It’s recommended for women aged 25–69, usually every 5 years if you are HPV negative on testing. but your doctor may advise a different schedule based on your health and risk factors.

  • It's important to mention any irregularities in your menstrual cycle, as these could signal underlying conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Your gynaecologist will ask about your symptoms and may run tests or imaging to find the cause.

  • Gynaecologists offer a range of contraception options, including pills, IUDs, implants, patches, and more. They can help you choose the method that works best for your health and lifestyle.

  • Treatment for heavy or painful periods can include hormonal therapy or surgical options. Your gynaecologist will tailor a plan based on your symptoms and health needs.

  • If you're sexually active and have had unprotected intercourse, it's a good idea to get regular STI screenings. Untreated infections can have long term repercussions including fertility issues and abdominal pain. Your gynaecologist can guide you on which tests are recommended based on your sexual history.

  • A routine exam may include an ultrasound scan, a pelvic exam, cervical smear, breast check, and a discussion of your menstrual and sexual health.

  • Yes, I offer support for managing menopause symptoms, including non-hormonal and hormone therapy.

Consultations

  • The cost of an initial 45 min consultation is $320.

    A 30 min follow-up consultation is $210.

  • Your first visit will include a detailed discussion of your medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns you're experiencing. Depending on your age and symptoms, you may undergo a pelvic exam. We will see what investigations you have had done and what more you might need. I will then educate you on your options and together we will put a plan in place.

  • There is nothing you need to prepare. It is natural to feel nervous for your first appointment, although all my patients come away realising they didn’t need to worry. I am here for you. If you feel you might be nervous, write down any questions you have and we will go through them. If you wish to bring a support person, please do so.

  • I reserve acute appointment slots for an emergency and an after-hours services should you require it. You will have a team looking after you including myself, my nursing and administrative teams.

  • If surgery is necessary (e.g., for fibroids, endometriosis, or other conditions), your gynaecologist will explain the procedure, risks, and recovery process. Many gynaecological surgeries, like laparoscopic procedures, are minimally invasive with shorter recovery times.

  • Yes, phone or telehealth appointments are available for both new and follow-up patients.

  • Yes, but a referral may be required to claim Medicare or insurance rebates.

  • Possibly, depending on your symptoms or goals—we’ll discuss it during your consultation.

  • Yes, I welcome patients from all regions and can arrange remote follow-ups if needed.

  • Yes, you're welcome to bring someone for support.

 Education

  • Yes, I have a lot of resources that I am happy to share

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, causing pain and potentially affecting fertility. If you're experiencing chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or difficulty conceiving, it's a good idea to discuss this with your gynaecologist.

  • Menopause comes with a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. There are various treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT), lifestyle changes, and medications to help manage symptoms.

  • Pelvic pain can have many causes, including endometriosis, fibroids, or infections. Your gynaecologist will conduct a thorough evaluation and may suggest treatments ranging from medication and physical therapy to surgery, depending on the diagnosis.

  • Yes, options include medications, hormonal treatments, or uterine artery embolization. Your gynaecologist will discuss the pros and cons of each treatment based on your symptoms, the size and location of your fibroids.

  • Absolutely—please get in touch through the contact page for speaking requests.

Fertility

  • It depends on the specific condition, but many women with conditions like PCOS, fibroids, or endometriosis can still have healthy pregnancies. Your gynaecologist can help you understand the best approach for conception and any precautions or treatments that may be necessary.

  • If you've been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if over 35), or if you have known issues like PCOS or irregular cycles.

  • In women, common causes include ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, and tubal issues. In men, it's often low sperm count or motility.

  • I offer a full range of treatments including IVF, IUI, ovulation induction, and fertility preservation.

  • This includes blood tests, ultrasound, semen analysis, and sometimes advanced imaging or genetic screening.

  • Up to 12 months if you're under 35, or 6 months if you're 35 or older.

  • Yes. Stress, weight, smoking, alcohol, and poor sleep can all impact fertility for both partners.

  • Yes, I specialise in managing these conditions with a fertility-focused approach.