Appointment with Gynae- who clearly wasn’t interested

[1880emma]

Just had an appointment with a private gynaecology dept via the NHS. Honestly I felt like the guy wasn’t all that interested, he barely even asked me my symptoms, he didn’t even ask how bad or where my pain was , he told me I had adenomyosis from an internal exam and then basically said there is no cure other than a hysterectomy or hormonal contraceptives which I refused. I then asked him is it possible I have endo from my symptoms and he said yes. So I asked him what he’s going to do about that and he mumbled he could do a lap on me which may solve my endo but I’d still have adeno. At this point I lost my rag a bit and said well at least I’d know is someone bothered to look, he then banged on saying I could still be in pain after this etc and basically gave the impression he couldn’t be bothered and was clearly not interested in NHS patients. So he ended with saying if I wanted surgery he would refer me and I said yes . Why is it so hard to bet someone to help with this . He made a point of saying his waiting list is very long , 6 months , which made me laugh a bit . I just don’t know now if I want him to operate seeing as he’s not all that fussed. On one hand I’m thinking at least if he operates and finds something I’ll know for sure ? I’m due to move in a few months but don’t want to start all over again for a new gynaecology dep just yet .

[Dee_EndoUK Moderator Endometriosis UK]

Hi 1880emma

Sorry to hear you had such a disappointing experience at your recent appointment. It's such a shame that you didn't feel supported by your consultant.

In order to make a decision about any surgery, it's vital that you feel fully informed about your options. With regards to a laparoscopy for endometriosis, we have a really comprehensive document on our website that you may like to read through, which explains everything you need to know about the procedure. You can download 'Laparoscopic Surgery For Endometriosis' at endometriosis-uk.org/gettin...

We also have a handy webinar that you can watch on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis - view it at endometriosis-uk.org/adenom...

Wishing you all the best - hope the content above helps you x

[1880emma in reply to Dee_EndoUK]

Thank you , I didn’t get any literature to read from the hospital so that helps

[poppy-b]

Hi,

I had a similar experience a few months ago with NHS. I felt as though he was trying to discourage me from a diagnostic laparoscopy. I wonder if it's because of the backlog from covid? It doesn't fill you with confidence does it. It's funny to me, my husband has developed a health problem, obviously not gynae related, over the past couple of years and everyone he has spoken to in the NHS has bent over backwards to help him. For my situation, I feel like once they have ruled out cancer the concern and support stops. No thought given to how many years I have been struggling with these symptoms which are just dismissed every time. Sorry....that turned into a bit of a rant about me. What I mean to say is that I relate to your frustrations. I hope you manage to make a decision which is right for you and your circumstances. Wishing you all the best x

[1880emma in reply to poppy-b]

Thank you , I think you are so right about the lack of concern or support and I definitely got the impression he was trying to discourage me . I hope you get help soon .

[Nikkky]

Hi. Sadly your experience isn’t unusual and I’ve lost count of how many gynae consultants I’ve seen over the years who are uninterested, dismissive and patronising. There’s only been one who actually bothered to do an examination. Like you say-they don’t even ask where the pain is. I can only advise you based on my experience and I personally wouldn’t go ahead with an op if the consultant didn’t seem interested. I assume that if they can’t be bothered during the consultation they’re going to have the same attitude in theatre and do the bare minimum. It’s really difficult because I know you’ll desperately want treatment but I would want a consultant who was optimistic and reassuring me that he or she will do their best. Unfortunately I think a lot of them are not knowledgeable, experienced or confident in treating adenomyosis and endo, instead of admitting it they behave in this dreadful manner towards their patients. They hate it when we ask questions as they don’t know the answers and instead belittle and patronise us. I had adenomyosis and endo and I found the mirena coil really helped and I would be pain free for about 15 months. It might be worth considering this even just to get some relief while you decide whether to wait to see a different consultant for a second opinion. I wonder if you can seek a referral to an endo specialist rather than a general gynae. Good luck x

[1880emma in reply to Nikkky]

Thank you , it’s definitely me think about second opinions all round !