"I believe action needs to be taken"

I hope this message will find you well. And although it may seem a little negative there is not vicious bone in my body against NHS and the staff.

Overall, the staff was lovely at every stage of my interaction with Sexual Health Fife.

However, it took me long to write this message as the experience itself was rather horrible and I wanted to sound as coherent as possible.

The staff was lovely and attentive especially the band 2 (apologies for not remembering her name). There are however few things that I have to mention as they bother me quite deeply.

Firstly, on arrival I was asked to confirm verbally my details, hence patient confidentiality was overlooked as every person who was sitting in the waiting area could hear my full name, address and even my personal phone number.

Secondly, after a small delay I was asked to join the doctor, during the consultation I was asked repeatedly if I am sure I want it (coil) removed. I was attending this appointment with the doctor as the nurse on my previous appointment could not locate the string. There were a number of other medical complications that were indicating the removal, however I was still left feeling like it was my irresponsible decision. It also felt like the doctor did not read or known why I was there.

Thirdly, during the procedure that was extremely painful. I have asked about any type of pain relief as it was taking much longer than even the insertion of the coil. It was necessary for the doctor to enter my uterus and try to remove the coil. The response I have received really surprised me.  The doctor said that they do offer a pain relief, however they did not think I will need it, as usually they are finished by the time the medication will start working. It was the doctor's decision to not even offer any pain relief and proceed without it. I was never given the choice. 

Fourthly, after eventually having the coil removed and biopsies taken, there was no recovery time given/offered, and therefore I was simply left to go home, still cramping and in pain.  

It really saddens me that I have to leave such words as a patient. I am proud of NHS and really would like all services to reach high standards of care.

I feel all the above issues can be easily fixed. With small changes to the process and approach to female patients that I believe still lack empathy. I believe action needs to be taken. 

Thank you for allowing me to voice my opinion. 

Best wishes

Female Patient