"Waiting list and getting dismissed"

I was referred to gynaecology by my GP for investigation due to endometriosis symptoms 3 years ago. I had several appointments booked and then cancelled with the consultant. I finally saw the consultant around 1 year later. I was in so much pain I could not be examined and I was discharged back to my GP.

I was referred again and saw the consultant. They seemed disinterested, advising I go back on birth control or have a baby. Not listening to my symptoms that I was in pain daily and had been in pain when I was on contraceptive medication. They spoke negatively about laparoscopic surgery, focusing on the negatives only which understandably put me off.

My pain worsened, I became symptomatic of PCOS and was referred back for laparoscopic surgery. The consultant didn't mention my weight was an issue until after they referred me. I was delayed further while I lost weight. I was finally put on the waiting list earlier this year and found out this would be a 2 year wait. I had already waited over 2 years at this point and my pain was worsening to the point I was having to take time off work.

I saw a consultant who was an endometriosis specialist privately. I was booked in for surgery 4 weeks after my consultation where it was confirmed I had endometriosis and cysts which were removed. The private consultant showed interest and listened to what I had to say. He advised me properly on what needed to be done to diagnose and treat my symptoms. He did not simply tell me to go on birth control or have a baby.

I'm appalled that if I hadn't went private, I would be 5 years of agony waiting and my endometriosis could have gotten to a more severe stage which could in turn affect my fertility and affect my organs even more. I strongly feel that womens health need to be addressed in a more efficient manner and the consultants need to show an interest as this condition has affected me for years and only gotten worse. This is a chronic condition that will very likely return and I was fortunate enough I could go private (through a loan) but not everyone is in this situation. 

My GP was brilliant, she knew assessing me was difficult due to severe pain and took this into account. She completed 2 referrals for me and I was provided with pain relief to help manage my symptoms until I could have my surgery. She also carried out bloods which confirmed PCOS and very informative. I hope other women can be seen by the NHS in a more positive light and can be seen much sooner than I was. 4-5 years wait is simply not acceptable when this affects your day to day life.

My private surgery happened in September with no complications and it has been night and day for me. I now don't need to take strong pain relief that gave me side effects as my symptoms have improved so much. I have had tears of happiness and relief. I hope this feedback is taken on board to highlight just how much this has impacted me, but so many women who are experiencing lengthy wait times to just see a consultant, nevermind the 2 year wait list following.