Unexpected gynae appt letter received in November 2024 with no explanation what the appt was for. I had previous gynaecologist appt in Enniskillen for LS in May 2024 and told I would be seen in 12 months, unless I experienced problems in the meantime. No biopsy was done at that time.
At my Dec 2024 appt I was seen by a different gynaecologist in Omagh who was keen for me to have a biopsy despite my reluctance, due to having no problems at that time and I did not wish a biopsy to trigger a flare of LS.
I felt anxious and unprepared to have a biopsy there and then. Despite my feelings, the consultant insisted I needed a biopsy as I hadn't had one in 2 years since diagnosis, to see if there is anything going on underneath, and as I did not have one at my previous appointment. The consultant said they would examine me and make a decision. I reluctantly agreed.
There were two nurses also in attendance. The more experienced nurse was assisting the consultant, the other nurse was mainly behind the screen. I was given an injection to numb the site and told I would not feel a thing and would not require stitches. Unfortunately the injection did not work and the consultant continued to proceed with the biopsy.
The consultant then changed their mind to take the biopsy from elsewhere. I made it clear I was in agony by this time and the consultant was surprised I wasn't numb. In a reaction to stop the pain I ended up shouting stop, I don't want this. The 3 of them stopped what they were doing immediately. I was upset by this time and the consultant said I did not have to have it done that day and it could wait till they see me in 6 months time.
They wiped the area, which was bleeding, roughly with antiseptic which stung. No pad was given to me for the bleeding when I got dressed. (I take aspirin so it does not take much for me to bleed). I was told not to worry and that I was wonderful.
It was put on my notes that I would need a numbing gel next time (which I have subsequently learned that it would be ineffective). What surprised and disappointed me most was that there were 3 professionals in the room, who were pleasant enough, but seemed to have no empathy for me and my situation. I felt like a piece of meat. Not one of the nurses was by my side offering support or reassurance during the procedure. I just lay on the bed with my arm over my eyes while I was experiencing extreme pain. No one paid any attention to me until I told the consultant to stop.
I thought that a biopsy was not necessary that day if it can wait another 6 months. It felt it was a predetermined decision to do a biopsy regardless of the condition of my skin and my anxiety. For the very first time I experienced bleeding and more discomfort than before with LS.
I am now very anxious to go to future appointments as I was so upset to be treated this way. I have never refused a procedure before and feel embarrassed that I did on this occasion.
In mid March 2025 I received a letter from Omagh Gynaecology to ring to make an appointment. This is well within the 6 month period since I was seen in December 2024, and am yet to call them for an appointment. I do not wish to see the same consultant and, if it is necessary for me to have a biopsy, I would like assurances that I will not be treated in the same way again and will receive effective local anaesthetic and pain relief together with appropriate support. I would much prefer to be seen elsewhere, is this possible?
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