"Hysteroscopy"

I had a hysteroscopy today in the gynae opd at RCHT, and I’m writing this to try to dispel some of the fears surrounding the procedure and to try to reassure anyone about to undergo it.

Before my procedure, I’d already had a trans vaginal ultrasound and hysteroscopy was the next step in investigating the post menopausal bleeding I’d had. I received the appointment in the post, along with a very informative booklet explaining the procedure. I felt that while this explained what would happen very well, it did nothing to allay my anxiety about the level of pain I might experience. It advised taking oral painkillers on the day but didn’t say any other form of analgesia would be available. I called the hospital to query this and was told local anaesthetic would be available but that most women find it unnecessary!!

Let me tell you ladies, it most certainly is necessary.

I arrived at my appointment to be met by a lovely lady who booked me in, took my details and listened to all my fears and anxieties. She reassured me that not only would I be able to have local anaesthetic but I could also have gas and air too. Whoopee, what a relief!

The actual procedure went well. Absolutely everyone I met today was kind, caring and totally lovely. I felt so safe and well looked after. Gas and air was readily available and I was encouraged to use it as much as I needed to. I also had lots of local anaesthetic which made the procedure uncomfortable at worst, and almost entirely pain free.

So please ladies, don’t be afraid of having a hysteroscopy. I know there are a lot of horror stories out there, believe me, I’ve read them! It’s not a particularly pleasant experience but it needn’t be painful, and if you have a problem that needs investigation, please don’t put off asking for help because it could save your life.

And if you’re cared for by the amazing team in RCHT’s gynae clinic, then lucky you, because they’re a wonderful group of skilled and caring professionals. I’m at home now with my feet up, making the most of a day off, watching rubbish on Netflix. I feel comfortable and pain free and I’m wondering why I was so anxious.

The only thing I would say is that the information booklet could have more accurate references to the types of analgesia on offer. I wouldn’t have liked to have gone through the procedure with only oral painkillers on board. In fact, I would probably have opted to have it done under general anaesthetic, which would have delayed my treatment. Being better informed before the procedure would have gone a long way to reducing my fear and anxiety on the day, because in the event, it really wasn’t so bad.

To the Gynae OPD staff who looked after me today, thank you again. You are all wonderful 🥰