Dr Catherine Smith
An Exciting Journey
I decided to start The Coil Clinic after recognising that many people were struggling to access long acting, reversible contraception.
The Coil Clinic has been designed with a simple mission at its core: to make access to long-acting contraception and a wide range of women’s health advice and services more straightforward. I understands that my patients often have busy lives and competing demands, yet must make time for their health needs. The clinic is based in an easily accessible location in Blackford, Edinburgh near multiple transport links and with nearby parking.
The Coil Clinic prides itself on creating a safe, professional, warm, and inviting environment where all patients will be put at ease and be given the time and space to discuss their contraceptive and menopause issues that matter most to them.
I very much look forward to seeing you in at The Coil Clinic soon.
Dr Catherine Smith
Dr Catherine Smith grew up in the Scottish Borders before pursuing a life-long dream to study medicine at the University of Glasgow, graduating in 2003.
Early in her career, Catherine completed her junior doctor placements in the south of England. She then returned to Scotland and settled in Edinburgh in 2004 where Catherine enjoyed the diversity of her hospital rotations across a range of specialisms, including medicine, A&E, obstetrics & gynaecology and paediatrics at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary Hospital and Borders General Hospital along with working in Sydney, Australia. However, Catherine’s love for a long-term career in general practice had been ignited during her time at Medical school in Glasgow and she was keen to return to the role that she knew was meant for her.
Catherine’s commitment to getting to know her patients as individuals and taking the time to understand their unique clinical and support needs is demonstrated in the excellent patient centred care she provides.
Catherine has been a partner at Edinburgh’s busy city centre West End Medical Practice for the past twelve years, where she continues to provide all aspects of NHS primary care. Her chosen specialist interest is in Women’s Health, where Catherine brings expert knowledge gained from her diplomas in Family Planning, Obstetrics & Gynaecology. She also worked for several years at Edinburgh’s former Dean Terrace Family Planning Clinic.
Using her dedication to general practice to assist in medical education, Catherine has been a GP trainer within the NHS for several years.
Outside of her work, Catherine lives with her husband, two children and very excitable spaniel. She enjoys running, cycling, Pilates, tennis, socialising with friends and ferrying her children around their various activities.
What past patients say...
Dr Smith has been fitting contraceptive devices for over 15 years, and has received many compliments, below are just a few.
If you are looking for a doctor who listens, problem solves with you, doesn’t diminish your personal experience, has deep expertise and demonstrates compassion and empathy in abundance that all describes Dr Smith.
Dr Smith has been amazing, caring and fully supportive as I navigated from peri-menopause to menopause over the last few years. With her guidance I now have an HRT protocol which allows me to live life well, has given me back my brain back and I feel like a whole person again.
I can’t rate Dr Smith highly enough. She listens, empathises and is totally there for her patients. I always feel heard and taken seriously. Her calm manner is soothing and I always leave feeling a bit lighter. Every practice should have a Dr Smith!