Guidelines on gynaecological examinations: Ethico-legal perspectives and challenges

This paper discusses the RCOG guidelines on examinations with specific reference to two ethico-legal dilemmas, namely a) a patient's request that an examination be performed without a chaperone and b) concerns that a colleague is not practising in accordance with the guidelines. Each scenario is discussed in the context of the law and ethical concepts of autonomy, trust and accountability. It is argued that guidelines provide a starting point for clinicians, but ethical sensitivity, reflection and professional judgement remain essential to maintaining standards in clinical practice.