"I cannot live like this any longer - I need surgery"

At present, I am in the process of seeking treatment for procidentia (severe stages of a pelvic prolapse). I have suffered with earlier stages of this condition for a couple of years, however since January 2023 - my condition has became severe.

I have been attempting to seek support from my GP service since then, who have tried to be as helpful and efficient as possible. However, the treatment I have received has not helped in any way as of yet. They have tried a number of different temporary measures in order to relieve the pain and suffering I am living with at present, none of these methods have worked - pessaries have fallen out by the time I have used the bathroom once or walked to my car from the GP surgery.

My current condition sees me bleeding a significant amount from the vagina on a daily basis, causing rashes/breakouts to my legs, affecting every aspect of my life including my working duties, social life and relationship.

My life at this stage is non existent, having to put everything on hold as I am in severe pain doing the most simple of tasks, and even in pain sitting down/standing up.

My mental health has taken a severe dip as I am an active person usually, who would walk/run long distance as a hobby. I no longer have this luxury due to my physical condition. I do not smoke, drink alcohol and in a healthy BMI range. There are no factors on my part which have contributed to this however I am suffering with it every single day.

I have been told a number of different things from my GP and other health professionals I’ve spoken to regarding this issue. I have been advised that I need an operation to resolve the condition, however informed this would be a year and a half waiting time. I was then informed it was 8 months.

I contacted my GP service on a further occasion as I had difficulties passing urine on top of bleeding/pain etc I face daily and was referred to Gynaecology Ward the same day in the Glasgow Royal Infirmary.

I received treatment (another temporary measure) on which another pessary has been fitted. However the Consultant has advised that surgery is needed. Due to the waiting list I have been advised of a long wait time, I cannot live like this any longer and cannot accept that long a waiting time for surgery.

Prior to this issue, I was severely unwell toward the end of 2021. I contacted NHS 24 on this occasion, due to severe high temp, vomiting and unbearable stomach cramps - unable to move. NHS 24 call handler stated this was not deemed an emergency and refused me an ambulance. My husband was terrified for me and my physical health at this point, driving me to A&E straight away. I was immediately seen and treated promptly for Sepsis due to complications from kidney stones.

So just to put it into perspective, I would have died due the advice given - luckily I made it to hospital just in time to receive treatment, again no thanks to the NHS for deciding over a phone that sepsis was not a medical emergency.

I did not complain at the time as I was thankful to be alive and didn’t have it in me mentally or physically to complain, however due to issues I am dealing with now. Again being failed by my NHS - I feel I cannot let these matters go until I am taken seriously.

I need an operation to resolve my current physical condition - I cannot afford to wait a number of months as advised.