"My hysteroscopy experience"

I had a history of post menopausal bleeding - all care, GP, ultrasound scan went fine, and I was referred to OPD gynaecology. An attempt at a pipelle biopsy was stopped as it was too painful, and I was re-refered for hysteroscopy.  It was mentioned in passing, I could ask for a GA, but not why I might want one. I followed the instructions and took ibuprofen and paracetamol beforehand.

The hysteroscopy was awful, the pain terrible and I started shaking,  sweating, vomiting and the consultant stopped the procedure as they feared I was about to faint. The nurse was lovely, but the hairdresser type chatter while I was in excruciating pain was just plain irritating. 

Afterwards I was then in the office, I was still shaking, and told I needed a GA - and asked if I consented for medical students to practice PV examinations while I was anaesthetised. This put me off the idea of GA , even though I refused consent. It was only a Dr friend who told me I could ask for a spinal that convinced me to go for the pre-op assessment. 

All the staff were caring and professional,  but I don't think I was suitable for OPD hysteroscopy. 

I was postmenopausal,  never given birth, had failed pipelle biopsy  due to pain, and a history of serious sexual assault - which I had to volunteer at  every appointment, it appeared it was not communicated - this added to my distress.

If I had known these factors would put me at risk , I would have never considered the OPD hysteroscopy- a simple checklist could identify women at risk and help them make informed decisions about their care. 

I subsequently had a spinal anaesthetic,  which allowed me to be pain free, but aware of what was happening and have some control.