I had a post menopausal bleed several weeks ago and was given an appointment for an ultrasound scan and/ or hysteroscopy. I deliberately only read the NHS information on hysteroscopy rather than personal experiences at that point, since I was nervous enough about the possibility of having the procedure.
On the day, I had the scan and then saw the consultant who advised that a hysteroscopy would be required for further investigation. I’m not good with any sort of internal examination and I expressed how anxious I was. I also asked what my options were, because I had read about being given a type of sedative beforehand, so was thinking of that really. My consultant advised that I had 3 options: have the procedure there and then and therefore get it over with, come back at a later date, or have it done under general anaesthetic. I opted for the latter and it’s only since doing a lot more reading and coming across sites like this, that I realise how ‘fortunate’ I was to be offered that option.
Some of the experiences that I’ve read about are truly shocking. I know that it’s a different experience for everyone, but it should surely be the norm to be offered a choice as to how you prefer to have the procedure done given the high percentage of women for whom it’s painful. I’m grateful to Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh Hospital trust for giving me that option.
We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.
Painful hysteroscopy
in Patient stories
Posted
I had a post menopausal bleed several weeks ago and was given an appointment for an ultrasound scan and/ or hysteroscopy. I deliberately only read the NHS information on hysteroscopy rather than personal experiences at that point, since I was nervous enough about the possibility of having the procedure.
On the day, I had the scan and then saw the consultant who advised that a hysteroscopy would be required for further investigation. I’m not good with any sort of internal examination and I expressed how anxious I was. I also asked what my options were, because I had read about being given a type of sedative beforehand, so was thinking of that really. My consultant advised that I had 3 options: have the procedure there and then and therefore get it over with, come back at a later date, or have it done under general anaesthetic. I opted for the latter and it’s only since doing a lot more reading and coming across sites like this, that I realise how ‘fortunate’ I was to be offered that option.
Some of the experiences that I’ve read about are truly shocking. I know that it’s a different experience for everyone, but it should surely be the norm to be offered a choice as to how you prefer to have the procedure done given the high percentage of women for whom it’s painful. I’m grateful to Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh Hospital trust for giving me that option.