Still awaiting biopsy

Hi Maz25

The wait is really hard and it seems to vary a lot between hospitals. I can understand how this is affecting you mentally and it must be so frustrating and get that you just need to know. On my scan it showed something rather than a thickened lining and I wonder whether that did get me the biopsy more quickly. I had mine done in clinic and it seems sometimes that where a GA is needed people can unfortunately wait a little longer. 

You say you feel forgotten, have you a number you can call to speak with one of the oncology nurses? My hospital has a gynae oncology unit and there is a phone number there to call where you can talk things through with the CNS team. I found them really helpful, both during my diagnosis and treatments.

I would feel somewhat reassured by the private consultant who seemed to think sticking with the NHS seems the best plan. If there was any risks/benefits in medical terms then I would have thought that something would have been said. 

Why not give the Support Line a call and speak to one of the nurses? The number is below and I have found them really reassuring. You can also speak to them, as I have, via online chat. 

I am sorry you are having to wait. Also another thought, is to contact the number on your letter and ask to be put on a cancellation list- and then you may get the chance of having it done quicker. 

Jane

Thanks Jane, as before I appreciate your reply. I have no contact numbers and to be honest I don't have much faith with them anyway. I've not even had pre op yet so wouldn't get in any quicker I don't think. I've done an online chat before and to be honest I find you ladies more helpful...thank you 

Hi Maz

This waiting must be difficult. I can empathise a bit because my radiotherapy treatment was pushed forward. I was waiting and waiting and it started 14 weeks post-surgery. I had it in my head it had to start within 12 weeks. But that is just a target I believe. But the waiting was awful - the thoughts swirling around my head - as I knew I had some cancer cells left that needed treating urgently. 

In my ultrasound I had thickened lining but there was also irregularities of shape in one area. Whether it was that that pushed everything quickly I don't know.

I agree with Jane, call and see if you can be put on the cancellation list. In the meantime look after yourself the best you can. Eating well and some exercise to boost your endorphins. If you're having difficulty sleeping I found a sleep sounds app. I fall asleep - eventually - to sounds of rain. There are many options to choose from. Rest and sleep are so healing.

We're with you.

Kim

Thanks Kim, yes it's all a constant worry at the minute. I have constant discomfort at the bottom of my back which is worrying the hell out of me. As for sleep I don't know what that is anymore. They gave me sleeping tablets but they're useless. 

Hi Maz25, I was referred in Sept 21, had an ultrasound 2 weeks later which showed an 11mm lining. I had a failed hysteroscopy a week later, and then needed to wait for an appointment for one under GA, and that happened 5-6 weeks later. Results took 2 weeks, then I had my pre-op assessment beginning Dec 21 and my op end Jan 22, so 4 months in all. My waiting times were fairly average then and are still now. I appreciate that the waiting is very difficult, arguably more difficult than an actual cancer diagnosis, but it’s good that you now have a date, and I imagine you’ll have your pre-op assessment soon. What got me through was trying to focus on what was known not what was not known. The what is not the what if. I was advised by my CNS to stay with the NHS even with the waiting, and I’m glad I did.

My symptoms have been ongoing since October last year, so already 3 months. Probably talking end of  February before any diagnosis. My first grandchild is due in March so I'm obviously absolutely devastated by that timinng also....I was so happy and now my world has imploded 

Do you mind if I ask about your actual symptoms and diagnosis. Please don't feel under pressure if you'd rather not divulge 

Average waiting time for results is 2 weeks, depending on what day your MDT meets. So hopefully you should hear quite soon after your hysteroscopy. I appreciate that you’re anxious but you will find a way through. The Macmillan phone line is excellent for support - have you tried calling them? 

I have spoken to Macmillan and I didn't find it much use to be honest. Don't know if it's just me!!

Also why do you think you were advised to stay with the NHS rather than private? I've never been private before until this but I feel it's a much calmer place unlike the big hospital that feels like a  cattle market to be  honest. The ironic thing is that they're the same drs aren't they (obviously I know)