Bowel health
From digestive discomfort to long-term bowel concerns, our specialists provide clear answers, fast access to testing and expert care – so you can feel like yourself again.
Free Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
.png%3F2025-10-22T09%253A06%253A19.020Z&w=3840&q=100)
Free Booking Protection
If the specialist you book isn’t suitable for your needs, we’ll cover a rebooking to someone who is. See our T&Cs for more.
Private bowel care from trusted specialists
Our specialists understand that bowel symptoms can feel worrying or uncomfortable to talk about, but they’re incredibly common and most causes are easily treatable. Whether you’re experiencing changes in your bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding, or bloating, we’re here to listen, investigate, and help you find clarity. From early diagnosis to ongoing management, we make bowel care straightforward, discreet and focused entirely on you.
Common bowel symptoms to look out for
Bowel changes are common, but persistent symptoms are always worth investigating. Knowing what to look out for can help you take action early and get the right support.
Changes in bowel habit
Ongoing diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between the two can be a sign that your bowel isn’t working as it should.
Blood in your stool
Even small amounts of blood should always be checked – it can be minor, but it can also be an early sign of something more sinister.
Abdominal pain or discomfort
Persistent pain, bloating, or cramping can signal inflammation or other bowel issues that benefit from early assessment.
Unexplained weight loss
Losing weight without trying can sometimes be linked to digestive conditions and should always be discussed with a specialist.
Fatigue or anaemia
Low iron or constant tiredness can result from blood loss in the bowel – a sign that further investigation might be needed.
A feeling of incomplete emptying
Feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels can happen with IBS, inflammation or rectal conditions. If it keeps happening, book an assessment so we can check the cause.
Understanding your bowel symptoms
Changes in your bowel habits – diarrhoea, constipation or a difference in your stool – can have many causes. Our consultants assess your symptoms carefully to identify what’s going on and get you on the right path to treatment.
Blood in your stool (rectal bleeding) should always be checked. It is often caused by common conditions such as haemorrhoids or fissures, but sometimes further investigation is needed. If you notice bleeding, book an assessment so we can advise on the right next steps.
.jpg%3F2025-10-22T09%253A11%253A48.807Z&w=3840&q=100)
Noticed changes?
If you’ve noticed changes in your bowel habits, persistent bloating, pain, or blood in your stool, it’s worth getting checked – even if your symptoms seem mild. Take our 2 minute bowel symptom checker quiz to understand if you need to see a specialist.
See what our patients have to say
The surgery all went very well - I felt fortunate to benefit from robotic surgery and I was pleased to not need a stoma. The information from Mr Panteleimonitis and the team was all very clear, caring and helpful in guiding me through the treatment needed and likely outcomes. Despite some changes in my habits, I have recovered very well overall and I have been able to return to work full time in quite a demanding role. I am also grateful for the ongoing support from the colerectal nurses and a clearly structured surveillance schedule. I offer my heartfelt thanks for my excellent treatment.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery friendly, helpfull, informative
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Simon Radley was excellent. He listened carefully, multitasked with great skill and his questions were based on his extensive experience. A thorough professional. Thank you
— Patient of Simon RadleyHis approach from the first time I met him could not have been better. His manner is warm and easy which makes one feel comfortable and relaxed. He explains all that is necessary in detail which gives huge confidence and trust. My experience regarding his care was excellent. I cannot imagine consultants come any better. I would fully recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonAppointment was on time , explained treatment plan clearly and understandable,,
— Patient of Simon RadleyI have been under Mr Radley since November 2019 who treated me for bowel cancer Excellent treatment , extremely professional . A wonderful surgeon and gentleman
— Patient of Simon RadleyA very sympathetic yet professional explanation which gives me every confidence in him.
— Patient of Simon RadleyI’m very happy with the Dr he told me what needs to be done .The cost is a bit high
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonExcellent. All explained clearly
— Patient of Simon RadleyHas a Inguinal hernia operation and from the start to finish it has been really good. Very quick to get in and everything was clear before the procedure.
— Patient of Dayo AdeyemoThe surgery all went very well - I felt fortunate to benefit from robotic surgery and I was pleased to not need a stoma. The information from Mr Panteleimonitis and the team was all very clear, caring and helpful in guiding me through the treatment needed and likely outcomes. Despite some changes in my habits, I have recovered very well overall and I have been able to return to work full time in quite a demanding role. I am also grateful for the ongoing support from the colerectal nurses and a clearly structured surveillance schedule. I offer my heartfelt thanks for my excellent treatment.
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisVery friendly, helpfull, informative
— Patient of Sofoklis PanteleimonitisMr Simon Radley was excellent. He listened carefully, multitasked with great skill and his questions were based on his extensive experience. A thorough professional. Thank you
— Patient of Simon RadleyHis approach from the first time I met him could not have been better. His manner is warm and easy which makes one feel comfortable and relaxed. He explains all that is necessary in detail which gives huge confidence and trust. My experience regarding his care was excellent. I cannot imagine consultants come any better. I would fully recommend him.
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonAppointment was on time , explained treatment plan clearly and understandable,,
— Patient of Simon RadleyI have been under Mr Radley since November 2019 who treated me for bowel cancer Excellent treatment , extremely professional . A wonderful surgeon and gentleman
— Patient of Simon RadleyA very sympathetic yet professional explanation which gives me every confidence in him.
— Patient of Simon RadleyI’m very happy with the Dr he told me what needs to be done .The cost is a bit high
— Patient of Jonathan RichardsonExcellent. All explained clearly
— Patient of Simon RadleyHas a Inguinal hernia operation and from the start to finish it has been really good. Very quick to get in and everything was clear before the procedure.
— Patient of Dayo AdeyemoMeet our specialists in bowel health
- SR
Mr Simon Radley
Colorectal, General Surgery
MB CHB, MD, FRCS
Available from 18/03/2026Mr Simon Radley is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham), The Priory Hospital (Birmingham) and The Droitwich Spa Hospital (Droitwich Spa). With over 25 years’ consultant experience, he specialises in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery for colorectal conditions and hernias. Patients value his clear explanations and steady, patient-centred care from first assessment through diagnosis, surgery and recovery.
Specialises in 13 procedures
- Banding of Haemorrhoids
- HALO - Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation
- Colonoscopy
- Incisional Hernia Repair
BirminghamThe Priory HospitalThe Droitwich Spa HospitalThe Harborne Hospital41 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 3063565Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - JR
Mr Jonathan Richardson
Colorectal, General Surgery
MB, ChB, PGCMedED, MD, FRCS(Eng)
Mr Jonathan Richardson is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Priory Hospital (Birmingham) and The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham). He treats hernias, haemorrhoids and a wide range of colorectal problems, using laparoscopic and open techniques. Patients value his calm, analytical style and the way he explains investigations and results step by step before agreeing treatment.
Specialises in 12 procedures
- HALO - Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation
- Open Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Umbilical Hernia Repair
- Banding of Haemorrhoids
BirminghamThe Priory Hospital21 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6122354Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SW
Mr Stephen Ward
Colorectal, General Surgery
BSc (Hons), MB BS, PhD, FRCS
Available from 20/03/2026Mr Stephen Ward is a Consultant Colorectal Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He specialises in keyhole surgery for bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hernias and anal fistula disease. His practice offers clear explanations, modern techniques and carefully coordinated care so people feel informed, reassured and supported throughout treatment and follow up.
Specialises in 5 procedures
- Incisional Hernia Repair
- Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Open Inguinal Hernia Repair
- Recurrent Incisional Hernia Repair
The Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital23 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6075264Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - SA
Ms Sarah Addison
Colorectal, General Surgery
MB ChB ,FRCSEd (Gen Surg)
Available from 20/03/2026Miss Sarah Addison is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Priory Hospital (Birmingham) and The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham). She treats bowel symptoms, benign colorectal conditions, pelvic floor problems and hernias, using laparoscopic techniques where suitable. By explaining investigations and options in straightforward language, she helps people feel safe, informed and involved in planning treatment that fits their needs.
Specialises in 12 procedures
- Banding of Haemorrhoids
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- HALO - Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation
BirminghamThe Priory HospitalThe Harborne Hospital30 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 4291798Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - MC
Ms Melissa Cunha
General Surgery, Colorectal
MD, PhD, FRCS
Miss Melissa Cunha is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham). She treats colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and benign bowel problems using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. She also manages rectal bleeding and long-standing bowel changes. Known for her warm, clear manner, she explains tests and treatment options simply, so care feels safe and well supported.
The Harborne HospitalThe Priory Hospital26 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6038405Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - CA
Mr Chuk Abraham-Igwe
Colorectal, General Surgery
MBBS Nig, MSc, DIC, FRCS (Gen.Surg)
Available from 17/04/2026Mr Chuk Abraham-Igwe is a Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham) and The Priory Hospital (Birmingham). He treats abdominal wall hernias, anorectal problems and bowel symptoms, and performs colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and hernia repair. With expertise in abdominal wall reconstruction, he takes time to explain each step, so people feel supported through recovery.
Specialises in 13 procedures
- Banding of Haemorrhoids
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- HALO - Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation
BirminghamThe Priory Hospital34 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 5188266Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included - VK
Dr Victoria Kunene
Oncology
MBChB, MRCP, MSc
Dr Victoria Kunene is a Consultant Medical Oncologist providing private care at The Harborne Hospital (Birmingham). She specialises in gastrointestinal cancers, including oesophageal, stomach, pancreatic, biliary and colorectal cancers and cancers of unknown primary. Using chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy where appropriate, she works closely with the wider team and provides clear, compassionate explanations so treatment plans feel personal, evidence based and well supported.
The Harborne Hospital28 Years ExperienceGeneral Medical Council: 6044698Book AppointmentFree Booking Protection Included