Una Lyons

Hi Claire its not a new experience - I believe the topic has also been covered some time ago on Women's Hour, and there is already a campaign on line for pain free hysteroscopy. I've had four children by natural delivery, uterine contraceptive devices fitted, no problem with anxiety or having cervical smears - but this procedure is on a totally different level! Barbaric and unbelievable. If I hadn't complained I'd have been counted as a 'successful' procedure, as at the time I was too shocked to say anything. When I got home I realised she'd I owed it to others to make the complaint to my local hospital. Ill pay privately for general anaesthetic if I have to, if I ever need another hysteroscopy. Kindest Regards

Have you found any 'gold standard' Claire? These reports are very similar to my experience. I wrote a letter of complaint, and was persuaded to remove the complaint once I was assured that changes would be made - but I wonder if they have been implemented. A younger and less confident woman would go home and cry feeling violated. It's a disgrace. Pain levels 0-10 should be taken after the procedure to inform medical staff who seem ignorant or insensitive to the pain being inflicted. Inane chatter by two assisting nurses is no cover up, so I suggest it stops.

I had a very painful hysteroscopy this year. My experience was exactly the same as yours and I have heard recently that another family member had a similar experience. Please don't put yourself through this AGAIN. I was furious on behalf of younger women who would feel violated and not complain. Insist on a general anaesthetic and do NOT accept the assurances that two paracetamol will sort out the pain. You deserve better treatment than this. A general anaesthetic is available to all women if requested, or find another consultant.