Hysteroscopy

[PeanutbutterPickle]

Hi, would love some reassurance. Had consultation last week and waiting for appointment within 2-6 weeks for hysteroscopy under GA to remove a polyp. Am scared of general anaesthetic as never had before and wary of going into hospital during covid pandemic

Try not to worry about it - I'm sure they have the red/green covid channels sorted by now!
I've had hysteroscopies under GA a couple of times, it's been fine. The first one was the first time I'd had GA - I can't remember whether I stayed overnight or went home the same day, but arranged an interview the first full day of being home. I think the interview panel thought I was drunk - it was all very peculiar, but no pain or discomfort from the hysteroscopy.

Thanks- I think it’s just the thought of not being in control. Just wish I had the appointment letter

Hi. I had a hysteroscopy 2 weeks ago. I felt safer in hospital than I normally do due to all the precautions that they were taking. It was really clean everywhere and everyone was using masks/hand gel etc.

The procedure itself was fine

@PeanutbutterPickle I was the same before my first GA a couple of weeks ago to the point of panic attacks at night. Exactly as you say it's the thought of not being in control. I spoke to friends who are anaesthetists, who reassured me that this is a very routine procedure for them.
The anaethetist should come and see you on the ward beforehand (if not then you can ask to speak to them when you get to theatres) mine was lovely- I explained how nervous I was and asked questions I had written down. They were all so lovely and reassuring- the last thing I remember was him saying he would be right there the whole time taking care of me...
Covid wise, the areas where they do these day case procedures are kept super 'clean'- you usually don't get through the front door without a negative swab and even the staff have to be swabbed regularly and cannot cross to a covid area in the same day.
All that said, I had a hysteroscopy under local anaesthetic- I'm surprised you've been offered a GA as they're trying to reduce the ones done at the moment. I hope all goes well for you- I know how you feel.

I had a hysteroscopy done over 20 years ago, it was done with no ga and it was very painful, the surgeon who did it was very unsympathetic and when I was crying he told me if I didn't stop he would put me under to do it. I then went home to get a phone call to say my mum had unexpectedly died, it was the worst day ever. I hope your experience is much better than mine and at least you won't feel any pain.

PeanutbutterPickle - will do my best to reassure
First though, like a PP, I'm surprised they're giving you a general for a hysteroscopy.

I had one this May for a detailed investigation during which the consultant removed a polyp.
He talked me through it and said it would leave me with period-like cramps (that was a bit of a throw-back since I'm post-menopausal).
It was uncomfortable and went on a bit but it wasn''t really painful.
I think if you'd really rather do it without a GA then ask if that's possible.
Maybe just a sedative would help?
I went on to have a hysterectomy in August and was apprehensive about the GA. But the anaesthetist explained every step of the way. I knew nothing from the time they put the canula into my hand to waking up 'some time later'. I must admit I was sick a couple of times after my first cup of tea and sandwich. I'm sure they can give you something for that...or maybe don't slurp it down like I did
Lastly all the hospitals I visited this summer were exceedingly covid compliant..really don't worry on that score. Hope it goes well

I had a hysteroscopy under a GA too to remove a polylp. It's A very common routine procedure and I believe used to be done without GA. It was very quick and I hardly had any pain after just slightly dull period type ache after. I've Definitely had more painful period pains than this. I was nervous too about the anaesthetic because I had never experienced this before but I really felt fine after. I think GA have come a long way from the days when they were a bigger deal and probably had a bad reputation.

I think I remember reading the booklet given by the consultant and it saying they do them with GA now because there is less risk of the patient moving during procedure

Do you have to have it done under GA? I've had it done awake without any pain relief and I didn't feel a thing.

Hi OP

I had one under GA and it was all fine. You will be well looked after, and not necessarily ‘under’ for very long.
Also hospitals are so well organised now, into Green and Red covid zones. Play your part, maybe isolate for a few days beforehand?

I had to have a negative covid test before my recent procedure, and then had to self isolate for three days after it.

Good luck, you will be fine and won’t it be great to be rid of that polyp?

It’s so great to hear from others who have had the same procedure and been in hospital recently. I know there’s worse things happening right now but I just got fixated on worrying! Suppose I’ll get a rest from dog walking, packed lunches etc for a day. Thanks everyone x