Waiting for hysteroscopy

  • 5 replies
  • 91 subscribers
  • 156 views

Hi

I’ve had intermittent bleeding since April after starting HRT in February. I’d never had odd bleeding before even post menopause. I was sent for an ultrasound last week and lining measured at 14.8mm so that flagged an urgent referral and hysteroscopy. I have an appointment date, not quite within the 2 week urgent recommendation but it’s ok, at least there is a date. Although it’s just an initial consultation so I’m not sure how long it will be for a hysteroscopy, I guess it will depend on what the gynaecologist thinks. Since the ultrasound, another round of bleeding and everything feels really sore. It it the stress? Has anyone else had pains that didn’t happen before the shock of an abnormal ultrasound?!!

Scared it’s going to be bad news. Hopeful it will be treatable.

I’m looking for tips to occupy my mind, Killer Sudoku seems to be working. And another forum suggested staying healthy, so it’s back to the exercise regime! Need to try and stay focused at work as well, it’s hard.

Wishing everyone all the best for their own situation. x

  • Hi

    Welcome to the Womb group.

    I am sorry to hear that you have had some bleeding and that the ultrasound has indicated some hyperplasia (thickened lining). 

    It is good that you were referred on the urgent pathway and had your initial appointment quickly. Where there are indications that a hysteroscopy is needed then it may well be done at your appointment. When you get your appointment letter it may well say but if it doesn't then perhaps give them a call. If you do have the hysteroscopy and biopsy then it would be better to know as you may want someone with you to take you home afterwards. 

    I didn't have any particular new pains after the ultrasound but was really anxious and became more aware of my body and sensations. 

    Although it is scary, it is far better to know for sure. It was almost worse not knowing for sure. Once i had a diagnosis and a treatment plan things felt less overwhelming and more in control. 

    My diagnosis came around a week after the biopsy but it can vary. 

    When caught at an early stage endometrial cancer is normally a very treatable cancer. For most ladies, as long as it is medically possible- a hysterectomy is offered. 

    I found it hard to think of much else while waiting but I did find that trying to keep to some normal routines, work, family, meal times etc did help. There were times when I just needed to step out and take a few deep breaths but on the whole I did my normal things. I find doing online jigsaw puzzles a good way to pass time. 

    If talking things through would help then please do give the Support Line a call. They will understand how tough it is to be waiting for tests. 

    I hope that your hysteroscopy/biopsies can be done quickly, in the meantime if there is anything you need then you know where we are. 

    Jane

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • Thank you, Jane. I’m worried about being a bore. But I’m naturally heart on sleeve so I am having to talk to everyone. Definitely a consultation only on the letter. I’m a bit worried about that as that will be longer for the hysteroscopy and more time delay. I’m conscious of the early diagnosis benefit. I’m on a private route and am wondering if NHS would have been better. Too late now.

  • It's normal to want to talk about it- part of processing it all. 

    I was NHS. First symptom of bleed. Had to go to A&E. 4 weeks later had surgery.

    I am not sure why they would do just a gynae appointment without the biopsy-especially where there is a significant thickening-  although there may be differences I suppose between areas. I was glad that my biopsy was done very quickly. 

    Early diagnosis for any cancer is best and I can understand why you have gone down the private route. 

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • You have been so helpful and got me thinking. I have managed to pull the 1st appointment forwards by 8 days by seeing a different consultant in a different area. That feels a bit better. x

  • Well done. The other thing you could do is ask if there is a short notice cancellation list. Some do them. 

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm