"A poor experience"

Today I had an appointment in the Women’s Health Unit with a Consultant in regards to female sterilisation.

During my consultation, I was asked if I had any other medical conditions, a question which I have come to dread over the years.

I suffer from Bipolar Disorder and have unfortunately had some very bad experiences with medical professionals due to this.

Indeed, my experiences at Stepping Hill Hospital in the past were so bad that it led me to choose Tameside as my preferred hospital when it came to my pregnancy last year.

I had a very positive experience thanks to a very understanding and supportive consultant.

With such a positive recent experience, I had no qualms in asking my GP to refer me to Tameside for this procedure.

However, today’s appointment has made me seriously question this decision.

When referring to previous medical conditions, the Consultant said “you have a mental problem, don’t you?”.

When I did not answer, mainly due to the shock I felt at such a question, they continued, “you have a mental health problem, some sort of depression”.

At that point I was able to respond and I stated that I have Bipolar Disorder.

I allowed the consultation to continue but by that point, I was very angry.

I do not find it acceptable that a medical professional could or should speak to a patient in such a way.

I do not have a problem, I have an illness.

I certainly would not expect it to be referred to as a “mental problem”.

I find it disgusting that a Doctor would speak about a medical condition of any sort in such a disrespectful manner and I certainly would not wish to continue under the care of someone who thought this was an acceptable way to speak to a patient.