Miss Iranthi Meththananda is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Welbeck, with expertise in gynaecology diagnostics, fertility, early pregnancy, and menopause care. We spoke with her about her career journey and a typical day at Welbeck.
Miss Iranthi Meththananda is a consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Welbeck, specialising in gynaecology diagnostics, fertility, early pregnancy, and menopause diagnostics and care.
With a research background and advanced training in pelvic ultrasound, she helps women understand their symptoms, explore their options, and make a plan that supports their health and quality of life.
We sat down with Miss Meththananda to learn about what a normal day at Welbeck’s Women’s Health centre looks like, how menopause care has developed, and the most rewarding part of her work.
‘I was drawn to the variety of the specialism and the chance to support women through important and sometimes challenging stages of life. I enjoy combining careful diagnosis with thoughtful conversations and practical treatment.
My PhD research strengthened my interest in understanding what lies behind symptoms, while my fellowship in gynaecology diagnostics at UCLH developed my expertise in pelvic ultrasound. I want women to feel listened to, informed, and confident about the next steps in their care.’
‘My day starts at home in a village in Kent, helping my boys get ready for school and trying to learn how to do a French plait for my three-year-old daughter. Then I enjoy the commute in with a coffee and some upbeat music - a little reset time before the day begins.
At Welbeck, I see women with concerns ranging from menopause symptoms and pelvic pain to fibroids, fertility, early pregnancy, and heavy or irregular periods. Where appropriate, ultrasound helps us assess the uterus and ovaries and decide what to do next. It’s one part of a wider assessment, and further investigation may sometimes be needed.’
‘Many women are surprised that perimenopause symptoms can develop gradually for years before periods stop. Changes in sleep, mood, concentration, energy, periods or sexual wellbeing may be subtle at first, and not everyone recognises them as menopause-related. I understand personally how easy it can be to put these changes down to a busy life or simply keep going.
The average age of menopause in the UK is around 51, but symptoms can begin before periods stop. The important thing is to take symptoms seriously, even when someone is still having periods.
Women often ask whether they need HRT. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. We discuss symptoms, health history, and preferences, then consider HRT and other options together.’
‘A consultation starts with what matters most to the patient: what has changed, how it’s affecting her life, and what she hopes to improve. We discuss treatment and, where relevant, investigate symptoms such as unexpected bleeding, which may include an ultrasound scan.
Many women in their 40s and 50s are balancing demanding careers, children, caring responsibilities, and family life. It can be easy to put your own symptoms last. I want women to know they don’t have to wait until they’re struggling to seek help.
Support can also include a broader conversation about wellbeing: what helps someone feel restored, whether they have time to relax, and how they might protect calm time and set boundaries around competing demands. These conversations can sit alongside medical treatment and help women feel more like themselves.’
‘PMS and PMDD can have a significant effect on everyday life, and symptoms deserve to be taken seriously. In particular, some women with ADHD notice that their symptoms become more difficult at particular points in their cycle, for example. Emerging research also suggests a link between ADHD and a higher likelihood of PMDD, although more evidence is needed. Recognising these patterns can help us have a more informed conversation and consider support that reflects the whole person.’
‘Awareness of perimenopause has grown, and women have more opportunity to discuss symptoms and treatment options, including HRT. Diagnostic tools such as ultrasound and procedures such as outpatient hysteroscopy can also help investigate some gynaecological concerns. There’s now a greater emphasis on supporting health from multiple perspectives.
There is still work to do, though. Greater investment in women’s health research, education, and services would support women across the life course-from fertility awareness and timely care to menopause support. Women deserve clear information and care that takes their concerns seriously.’
‘It’s rewarding to help someone make sense of symptoms that have been affecting her confidence, sleep, work, or relationships. A clear explanation and a plan can help women feel more in control and better able to bring their best to the parts of life that matter to them.
One of the most challenging things is hearing women say, “I wish I had known this earlier.” It’s one reason high-quality, accessible information about women’s health matters so much-whether someone is concerned about endometriosis, fertility, or menopause. Understanding what symptoms might mean, when to seek advice and what support is available can help women feel better informed and find a way forward sooner.
It can also be difficult when women have felt dismissed or have had to push hard to be heard. I want to be an advocate for my patients: to listen, investigate thoughtfully, and help them find a way forward.’
Welbeck brings together a women’s health team with a wealth of experience across different areas of gynaecology. The consultants and wider team support one another and share their expertise, helping women benefit from thoughtful, joined-up care.
Alongside a detailed consultation and ultrasound where appropriate, an assessment may include blood tests when clinically indicated, discussion of breast screening, and assessment of bone health, including a DEXA scan where appropriate. Care is tailored to each woman’s needs, helping build a clear picture of her health and agree the right next steps.
Welbeck’s women’s health specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of concerns, from menopause symptoms and pelvic pain to heavy periods and fertility issues. Care may include tailored investigations, treatment, and advice on wider health and wellbeing.
To arrange an appointment, contact Welbeck’s dedicated Women’s Health centre.
‘A truly exceptional consultant and service - I cannot recommend her highly enough. I recently saw Miss Meththananda following some gynaecological symptoms, and from the moment I walked in I felt completely at ease. She has a rare quality that is hard to put into words, a warmth and calmness that immediately puts you at ease, even when you're anxious or facing something intimate and uncomfortable. She was incredibly thorough, explaining everything clearly and making sure I understood each step.
When it came to having a procedure during the consultation itself, I genuinely barely had time to feel nervous; she was quick, skilled, and reassuring throughout. The fact that she was able to assess and treat me in a single appointment rather than sending me away and making me wait showed real competence and care for her patients. I left feeling heard, looked after, and genuinely impressed. In a world where medical appointments can often feel rushed or clinical, Miss Meththananda manages to be both highly professional and deeply human. She is exactly the kind of doctor you hope to find.
If you are looking for a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology who combines expertise with exceptional bedside manner, look no further. The centre, from admin (booking/checking in) to the supporting (clinical staff) were lovely. Just a great service overall.’
– Patient of Miss Iranthi Meththananda
