Frequently Asked Questions

“Lumps and bumps” is a simple way of describing small growths or swellings on or under the skin. These can include cysts, lipomas (fatty lumps), skin tags, warts, small abscesses, moles, or any unusual raised area on the skin.

Not usually. Most are harmless and can be easily treated. However, a few may need further investigation or removal, especially if they are growing, painful, changing in appearance, or causing discomfort.

I assess and treat a wide range of skin and soft-tissue concerns. Many can be removed safely in the practice using minor surgical techniques. These include:

• Skin tags
• Lipomas (fatty lumps)
• Sebaceous/epidermoid cysts
• Warts
• Small abscesses or boils
• Benign moles or raised lesions
• Ingrown toenails or inflamed nail tissue

Treatment depends on the type of lump. Local anaesthetic is used where needed to keep you comfortable. Treatment may include:

• Simple excision (removal)
• Incision and drainage
• Cryotherapy (freezing, if indicated)
• Sterile drainage of cysts or abscesses
• Shave or snip removal of skin tags
• Wound care and follow-up

You may feel a small pinch with the anaesthetic, but the procedure itself is usually painless. Some mild tenderness afterward is expected, and you will be given aftercare instructions.

No. Some lumps are harmless and can be left alone unless they bother you or cause symptoms. If a lump looks suspicious, you may be referred for further testing or to a specialist.

These may need quicker assessment. Seek medical attention if the lump or bump is:

• Fast-growing
• Painful or red
• Bleeding or ulcerated
• Associated with fever
• Changing in shape or colour

Absolutely. You’re welcome to book a consultation for assessment even if you’re unsure what the lump is. I will examine it, explain what it is likely to be, and discuss treatment options.

I provide comprehensive women’s healthcare, including:

• Routine gynaecological check-ups
• Pap smears and cervical cancer screening
• Breast examinations
• Contraception (pills, injections, IUD counselling, Implanon insertion/removal)
• Pregnancy confirmation & antenatal assessments
• Menstrual disorders (painful periods, heavy bleeding, irregular cycles)
• PCOS, fertility concerns & hormone-related issues
• Perimenopause and menopause support
• Vaginal infections, recurrent thrush, and urinary concerns
• Pessary fittings for prolapse support

Yes. All women’s health consultations are handled with sensitivity, privacy, and respect. You’re welcome to bring a chaperone if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Absolutely. I encourage open communication — you can ask anything at any time. Your comfort and understanding are always prioritised.

A Pap smear is a quick test that checks for abnormal cells on the cervix, helping detect early signs of cervical cancer.

In South Africa: Pap smears are recommended every 3 years in private healthcare, or every 5 years if using HPV testing. South African public sector guidelines recommend screening every 10 years (at ages 30, 40 and 50).

• Every 3 years, starting from age 25–65.
• If you are HIV-positive, you may need annual testing.
• If you’ve had abnormal results before, screening may be more frequent.

Most women feel only mild pressure or discomfort for a few seconds. It should not be painful. I always explain each step and ensure you feel relaxed and respected.

Results typically take 1–2 weeks, depending on the laboratory. I will contact you directly and explain the findings clearly.

Abnormal results do not mean cancer. They simply mean we need further testing or monitoring. I will guide you through the next steps and refer you to a trusted specialist if needed.

A pessary is a small silicone device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs and relieve symptoms of prolapse.

Pessaries are helpful for women who:

• Have pelvic organ prolapse
• Want a non-surgical treatment option
• Wish to delay or avoid surgery
• Cannot undergo surgery
• Need symptom relief during pregnancy

During your visit:

• I will do a gentle pelvic exam
• Choose the correct pessary size
• Insert it to check comfort
• Show you how to care for it
• Arrange follow-up visits to reassess fit and comfort

You should not feel discomfort. If it feels painful or “too low,” the size may need adjusting — this is easy to fix.

Follow-ups are usually recommended at:

• 1–2 weeks after the initial fitting
• Then every 3–6 months, depending on type and comfort

Regular breast exams help detect lumps, changes, or early signs of breast cancer. Early detection greatly improves outcomes.

A breast exam includes:

• Visual inspection
• Gentle palpation of breast tissue
• Checking underarm lymph nodes

Depending on your age, family history, or findings during the exam, I may recommend a mammogram or ultrasound and refer you to a trusted imaging centre.

Monthly self-exams are encouraged. I can show you the correct technique during your visit.

Book an appointment if you notice:

• A new lump
• Skin dimpling
• Nipple discharge
• Changes in size or shape
• Persistent pain
• Underarm swelling

I provide comprehensive family medical care. If specialist input is required, I refer patients to trusted, well-recommended specialists.

• Women’s health (Pap smears, contraception, antenatal support)
• Minor surgical procedures (lumps & bumps, biopsies, suturing, toenail removal)
• Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension, asthma, HIV)
• Acute and same-day care (infections, injuries, allergies, flu)
• Diagnostic testing (blood tests, basic ultrasound, screening)
• Mental health support
• Preventative care and lifestyle counselling

Yes. I see children of all ages for acute illnesses, routine check-ups, immunisation counselling, and chronic conditions. Families are always welcome.

Yes. I provide pregnancy confirmation, antenatal check-ups (within GP scope), blood tests, symptom management, and referral to obstetric care when needed.

I offer a full range of women's healthcare in a comfortable, respectful, and private environment.

• Pap smears and cervical screening
• Breast examinations
• Contraception (pills, injections, Implanon insertion/removal)
• Menstrual concerns, PCOS, fertility counselling
• Perimenopause and menopause support

I perform several safe, minor procedures using numbing and sterile technique, and I provide post-procedure care.

• Removal of skin tags, cysts, and benign lumps
• Ingrown toenail treatment and nail removal
• Abscess incision & drainage
• Suturing of minor cuts and wounds
• Biopsies for suspicious skin lesions
• Foreign body removal
• Ear cleaning (lavage/syringing)

During your consultation I will take a detailed history, perform an examination, explain findings, and discuss treatment or referrals as needed.

• Take a detailed history
• Perform an examination
• Explain findings clearly
• Discuss treatment options
• Provide prescriptions or referrals if needed
• Arrange follow-up when appropriate

Walk-ins may be accepted depending on availability, but appointments are preferred to reduce waiting time.

Yes — I work with most medical aids. For cash-paying patients, affordable consultation rates are available.

Please bring identification and any relevant medical information. Comfortable clothing is recommended for examinations or procedures.

• Your ID or medical aid card
• List of current medications
• Any previous blood tests or reports
• A summary of your symptoms (if applicable)

If your condition requires care outside my scope or needs advanced expertise, I will refer you to a trusted and well-recommended specialist to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Absolutely. Your information is protected in accordance with POPIA. Only authorised staff involved in your care can access your records.

You can call the practice, send a WhatsApp message, or use an online booking platform if available. Same-day bookings are often possible depending on the schedule.

An iron infusion is a treatment that gives iron directly into your bloodstream through an IV drip. It helps restore low iron levels quickly, especially when tablets are not working or are poorly tolerated.

You may need an infusion for iron-deficiency anaemia, severe fatigue related to low iron, heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy-related iron deficiency, poor absorption, intolerance to oral iron, or when rapid replenishment is required. Your blood tests will guide this decision.

The choice depends on your blood results and medical history. Common products used locally include:

• Ferinject® (ferric carboxymaltose)
• Venofer® (iron sucrose)
• CosmoFer® (iron dextran)

A typical appointment includes vital checks, IV insertion, slow iron administration, and monitoring during and after the infusion.

• Checking your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, oxygen)
• Placing a small IV line in your arm
• Administering the iron slowly through the drip
• Monitoring you during and after the infusion
• Observing you for 15–30 minutes afterwards

You may feel a small pinch when the drip is inserted. Most people feel comfortable during the infusion itself.

Most side effects are mild and short-lived; rarely an allergic reaction can occur. Emergency equipment is always available for safety.

• Headache
• Nausea
• Metallic taste
• Dizziness
• Mild joint or muscle aches
• Slight bruising at the injection site

Many patients notice improved energy within a few days to 2 weeks. Full correction of anaemia may take several weeks depending on individual needs.

This depends on your iron levels, the product used, and the severity of anaemia. Some patients need one infusion, others multiple sessions.

Yes. Most people feel well enough to leave after the observation period. If you feel dizzy or tired, we recommend having someone drive you home.

Yes — iron infusions are often used safely in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters when oral iron does not work. Product choice depends on obstetric history and blood results.

Yes. Follow-up blood tests are usually done 2–6 weeks after the infusion to check your response.

If your iron remains low or drops again, further assessment is needed to find the underlying cause. Repeat infusions may be given when appropriate.

Many medical aids do, depending on your plan and the type of iron used. Quotes can be provided beforehand if needed.