Experiences of outpatient hysteroscopy and whether to have it without anaesthetic

GA all the way.

Mine is a positive story. I had a hysteroscopy, cervical polyp removal, biopsy and Mirena coil insertion two years ago with just a couple of paracetamol beforehand. I can honestly say I didn't find it in any way painful. It was fine and I drove myself home afterwards. I've had three vaginal births and my (male) gynaecologist reckoned I'd be fine. He said he'd have recommended a GA if he thought I'd need it, but given my obstetric history he didn't think I would. The trouble is, you just can't really predict how it's going to be. I strongly believe all women should have the option of having this procedure under GA.

I’ve had two, first one was so painful, absolutely blindsided me. Had to have another a few years later and had a GA, so much better!

I had one with no biopsy aged 29 and it was fine.

I had one aged 33 under GA but the hospital only do it under GA there, that was also fine and I came round very quickly. Mild pain from biopsy but period cramps really.

I had one and biopsies at the same time. For me, no worse than a smear and I then drove myself back to work.

There is no way of knowing though and for some women, they're agony.

I had some cervical polyps removed a few years ago. I had to ask them to stop half way through as it was quite painful they apologised and gave me a local anaesthetic. Earlier this year I had and internal womb scan, a hysteroscopy and womb biopsy it was uncomfortable but over very quickly without any pain relief. I was never given the option for a general anaesthetic.

My mum had one, it was incredibly painful and they wouldn’t listen to her. I’d ask for GA unless there’s a medical reason meaning this isn’t a suitable option for you.

I had one & was terrified! I had the option of ga but decided to try without and see how it went. I was absolutely fine - a little uncomfortable but not bad at all. It’s a tough one as experiences of this procedure seem to vary a lot. I had a hysterosalpingagram years ago & that was a lot worse

To add to the age angle I am 56.

I have had 2 in the last year - full works scan, camera and biopsy. Both without general anesthetic. It is not comfortable but tolerable. I was offered (and took) gas and air for the second one.

I was offered general anesthetic but chose to not have it & don't regret that decision.

For both the pain level was about the same as a marina coil / bad period pains.

Mixed message from me I'm afraid.

I had one in my 40s, including a biopsy and not a single bit of pain. I skipped out of there, straight back to work.

I had one last year in my early 60s and it was fucking agony! I couldn't stand up without nearly blacking out afterwards.

Nurse told me afterwards they get worse the older you are as your cervix gets less soft and flexible. I've vowed if I ever need another I will refuse unless it comes with a GA.

Having had polyps related to fibroids removed from my uterus under GA there is no way I would have these removed without general anaesthetic.