"Need for aftercare following gynaecology procedure"

I had a procedure to remove a small polyp. Whilst the nurse and consultant were absolutely great, doing their level best to make it as quick and painless as possible, the after care was severely lacking.

As I attempted to leave the building I was in such excruciating pain I was disorientated and I could barely walk. I had to lean on my husband at the main entrance door to stop me passing out. On the way home in the car I wanted to be sick and almost passed out again. When I got home I was crawling to the bathroom because I couldn't stand.

With no after care leaflet or any kind of information about what to expect other than bleeding, I tried to contact the outpatient department for advice but no one was available. I had no choice but to phone NHS 24. Finally at 8pm, I spoke to an excellent doctor who thought that my symptoms might be related to some other underlying pelvic issue because of the severity.

My complaint is that without aftercare advice and not knowing who to contact if unsure, your pain and anxiety worsens. I got more aftercare after all my Covid vaccinations! Perhaps it would be a good idea to have a post-procedure seating area just in case patients do react badly.

Thank goodness someone was with me to drive. I was in no fit state. And no one even asked me how I was getting home either. As I said, the consultant and nurse were excellent but post-procedure needs more thought and attention.