"Colposcopy"

Hi,  last week I went for a colposcopy at my local hospital's women's clinic.  My appointment letter gave only the date, time, Dr's name and the clinic...nothing else.

I arrived at the clinic thinking it was a consultation.  I noticed, in the waiting room that I was the only one on my own, all the other patients had a friend/family member with them.  I had not been told I could have someone with me.

On entering the Dr's room I was introduced, a short history taken and then I was asked if I had ever had this type of investigation before. They waved their hand in the direction of a machine with a large screen.  Then they called in a nurse and I was told to undress below the waist and lie on a couch.  They told me the investigation would be done in silence and with the lights off.  I was not nervous as I realised the test was being done for my benefit.  The Dr told me I would feel mild discomfort and a little period-type pain.

The colposcopy was extremely painful from the moment the speculum was inserted, I was gripping the sheet with both hands and trying not to make any noise...I was told to breathe in and out heavily...which I did but it did not alleviate the severe pain I was in.

The Dr then took a biopsy...it seemed to last for hours.  I was in agony.

To say I felt violated and brutalised is an understatement !  I was shaking as I got off the couch...I could hardly speak.  I was bleeding quite a lot and was offered one sanitary pad by the nurse...I did ask for more which I was then given.

I was so shocked I remember nothing of what was said afterwards...my hands and legs were shaking as I was immediately ushered out of the clinic....no time to sit and recover !  I don't remember the walk through the hospital to the exit.  I found the examination barbaric, the Dr said they knew I was in distress.

I now am booked in next week for a camera investigation...and another possible biopsy...I am shaking at the thought...I am terrified that it will be in as much agony as I was during the colposcopy....and this time I know what to expect !!!