"Colposcopy"

I needed further investigation of my cervix as I had abnormal cells on my routine cervical screening.

I hate going for my cervical screenings and I am a really nervous person. But I felt really welcomed and the team did really well at putting me at ease.

There was a male doctor, two nurses and a male student. One recommendation I have is that it would be nice to have a warning that male staff will be present, before the procedure. In saying this, however, it wasn’t a negative experience at all. In fact, the staff were very respectful and put me at ease. I think I just needed to prepare myself for it mentally beforehand, and I think others may feel the same. If it could be mentioned or put in literature that male staff might be present, I think patients would be more prepared mentally.

Mr.Flood, Jen and Marie were very good and clear about every step of the way. I had time to get ready and was given a sheet to help me feel more comfortable and cover myself up. They help you get into positioning etc. and keep you chatting to keep your mind off what’s happening.

The doctor looks under the microscope and checks the cervix. If there is something there, they will take a biopsy. You cough a few times while they do that. I didn’t feel much but it might be uncomfortable for others.

They were very clear on next steps, timescales (so you know if you need to chase), and what to expect.