Worst gynaecologist I’ve ever been to in my life!!!

I had a disappointing experience with Dr. Janine Potgieter and would not recommend her to others.

During my appointment, I sought advice from Dr. Potgieter regarding contraceptives, as I was uncertain about whether to use them or not. I had a negative experience with birth control pills in the past, which made me hesitant to try any form of contraception. My intention was to seek guidance and reliable medical information. However, Dr. Potgieter recommended a contraceptive similar to a Mirena, (Kyleena). I expressed my concerns about IUDs, as I had heard negative comments about their potential pain and severe side effects from other women. Unfortunately, Dr. Potgieter’s response lacked helpfulness or information. She simply stated, "It is painful, I don't know what else to tell you, I've had it done 3 times before." She failed to explain the pros, cons, or even the procedure of an IUD.

Furthermore, I shared my symptoms related to an irregular cycle, and Dr. Potgieter suggested that I might have PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). She brushed it off as easily treatable and a common condition affecting 10% of women, assuring me that getting pregnant wouldn't be a problem. However, she didn't provide a thorough explanation of PCOS, its impact on lifestyle, and fertility. As a young woman, hearing about the possibility of fertility issues is distressing, and her delivery felt insensitive.

The most uncomfortable part of the appointment occurred when I was asked to undress for a pap smear and a general exam. Dr. Potgieter remained in the room and watched as I undressed, even making comments about my body. When I stated that I was recently on holiday, she said that I couldn't enjoy a relaxing holiday if I had children. When I requested a gown, she responded dismissively, saying, "You can get one, but I'm going to see everything anyway." Feeling judged, I quickly got onto the bed, and she proceeded with the examination. In all my previous gynecological appointments, the doctor has always provided a gown and respected my privacy. I found the lack of privacy and the judgmental atmosphere highly uncomfortable.

To add to the unpleasant experience, Dr. Potgieter wrote me a prescription for Ovaria and handed me a piece of printed paper that served as the product's information. She simply said, "Take this if you want to," without providing any explanation about the product.

Leaving the appointment, I felt overwhelmed and deeply uncomfortable. I spent the entire day in tears, feeling disrespected and violated. I had to conduct my own research on PCOS, PCOS supplements, infertility, and IUDs, as Dr. Potgieter failed to provide adequate information.

I was initially hesitant to write this review due to Dr. Potgieter’s responses to other negative reviews. However, I felt compelled to share my experience to prevent other young women from going through a similar ordeal. Dr. Potgieter belittled me, made me feel foolish for not wanting contraceptives, and degraded the idea of having children during the appointment. She lacked sensitivity and failed to provide any substantial information. Needless to say, I will not be returning to her practice.

Update: I received my blood test results back from Dr Potgieter via email, it stated:

“Hallo Jade,   Janine rep****:  Thyroid is normal.  PCOS can be seen on bloods<  LH is higher than the FSH value.”

This is the worst medical email I have ever received from a doctor. I don’t know what LH or FSH stands for, again, I had to Google and do my own research. The results weren’t even shared with me so I don’t know what the levels are exactly. I didn’t even receive a phone call or any sort of explanation. I received bad news via email and have no solution or no information on how to proceed. Are the levels extremely high? Is this something to be concerned about? What do I do now?

I am terribly annoyed and feel that I have been wronged by this doctor throughout this whole process.