"The staff were all amazing"

I was referred to Kingston Hospital for a hysteroscopy back in September and I recently had the procedure (it was routine so not an urgent referral). I wanted to share my positive experience because I had read some stories about how awful it was, and it made me very nervous. 

Before the procedure, I had a consultation with the doctor who was so lovely - she talked to me about my symptoms and what they were planning to do (check my womb, polyp removal and biopsy). She managed my expectations that the procedure could be a bit painful, and some women find it very painful, but that I was in control and could ask for it to be stopped at any point. I felt really safe and reassured. Although I was nervous that it might be very painful, I felt positive because I knew it was my choice if I wanted to go ahead with it and could stop at any time. 

I changed into a hospital gown because they do put some water into your womb, and it can get a bit wet! I was looked after by two other nurses and the doctor during the procedure - they were all amazing and kept checking on me to make sure I was ok (one of the nurse's roles was just to be next to me to look after me and she was amazing). 

The actual procedure was so quick I couldn't believe it - I think it lasted less than 5 minutes (maybe even about 2)! They didn't find a polyp so just did a biopsy. It was quite painful when they put the water in; it felt like quite intense period pains, but it wasn't so bad that I couldn't handle it, and I found it reassuring that the nurses and doctor were talking to me and making sure I didn't need to stop. As I said, it was over so quickly that the pain didn't last long at all.

After the procedure they let me stay lying down for as long as I wanted in case I didn't feel well. I then went back to my own little room to get dressed. As I said, the water comes out so it was a bit wet, but they gave me a pad to help with that. I then had another chat with consultant about what they saw and asked any questions that I had - I didn't feel rushed at all and just felt very looked after. 

I then went home to relax - I had some slight bleeding and period-like pains, but generally felt really good! 

The procedure was nowhere near as bad as I thought it might be and I feel really lucky because I know that's not the case for some women. While it was quite painful, the staff were all amazing and it was over quickly. I think they know that it is a daunting procedure for women so they are really lovely. 

I wanted to share my experience because I know this would have helped me in the lead up to my appointment, so I hope it helps someone else.