"Awful experience - Gynaecology"

I was referred in February by my GP to Gynaecology as a result of pain, painful SI, bleeding after SI and unusual periods. I work in the NHS and have a good understanding of the referral system so it came as no surprise that I would have to wait several weeks. However, I was disappointed to find that my first appointment was delayed by a further 6 weeks and no effort was made to tell me why – I had to discover that the appt had been moved of my own accord.

I was finally seen by an excellent consultant who took time to listen and explain. I was already aware that I have an ectropian cervix which could explain some bleeding and the consultant cauterised the surface of the cervix that day. I was told to keep a diary of the pain and bleeding over the next few wks. I was also referred for a trans-vaginal USS which I had some weeks later at the Hove Polyclinic where my treatment was also excellent.

Unfortunately I then had a follow up apt (which was moved again with no warning) and I was seen by a Consultant who did not explain anything. I showed them my list dates pertaining to pain and bleeding and they didn’t even look at it. I was told that the USS was normal and the next step was laparoscopy. Their words were “so, do you want surgery?” to which I responded “I don’t know, do I need it?” They were not willing to recommend the surgery and said they were guided by me and whether the pain bothers me. I wouldn’t have been referred in the first place if it didn’t bother me, and more to the point, it isn’t normal is it? I waited 8 mths to get to this stage to be spoken to like an idiot. I said I didn’t know what the consequences are of not having surgery or what they would look for. They said endometriosis – again no explanation re this condition. I said what are the consequences of not treating this and they said “ beyond menopause it isn’t really a problem. “ I’m 31 yrs old and would like to think I have not reached the menopause yet, and have high hopes of having children someday. This was a completely redundant off-the-cuff remark. The appt was less then 10mins and I ended up signing up for surgery with the view that I would at least be in the system and could try and seek advice elsewhere. I still have no idea whether this surgery is the correct route to take. They asked if I had any further questions and I said No because I felt I would either cry or become angry. The Consultant was also accompanied by a male student doctor and I feel that some patients may find it uncomfortable discussing such sensitive information with two males and no offer of a female chaperone. This wasn’t a concern for me as such but thought I would mention it. The letter I have received since this appt states that we discussed the option of leaving things alone or considering diagnostic surgery... this is absolute rubbish.

It is a shame that my otherwise excellent care has been ruined by one individual.