Hysteroscopy after vaginal ultrasound

Had breast cancer in 2016 and after chemo and radiotherapy was put onto Tamoxifen.  Recently been getting a lot of issues with bloating, pain in my pelvis, slight spotting (I'm 58).  I mentioned the spotting when I went for my smear test recently and thought nothing more of it.  Smear test came back clear.  I had cause to go the GP a week ago due to a different health issue and the GP started asking me further questions and referred me to the Gynae Oncologist within the two weeks window.  I wasn't worried about it but have been to the appointment today, a vaginal ultrasound was carried out which was quite painful on my left side.  I was told that the consultant would review the scans and be in touch but that my endometrium had thickened and this was probably due to the Tamoxifen.  I was told that I may or may not need a follow up appointment but upon leaving the room I was taken to the reception desk where my new file was handed over. The receptionist read it, said "Oh" then proceeded to give me a pamphlet on a hysteroscopy, told me that they will be in touch and stand by my phone and to bring someone to the appointment.  Am I beginning to freak out over nothing or should I be worried?

  • Totally understand your position. Please try and not to panic. I'm in a similar place. Had breast cancer then 5 years on Tamoxifen which is due to stop in July.. a few months ago started getting cramps no bleeding went to GP then had 2 week wait referral. Had trans bag scan told it's slight thickening of endometrium probably need looking into cos of Tamoxifen. Next day GP called and said results are back and booked for hysteroscopy. Two weeks later I got my results this afternoon. 
    the hysteroscopy is uncomfortable but they do make you comfortable with local anaesthetic and they give you codeine and paracetamol half an hour before the procedure. 
    try to breathe though and focus on breathing I think I forgot and the nurse kept reminding me to continue focusing on breathing.. that made us smile .. it's uncomfortable not so painful and take pads for after cos you do bleed a bit.. get home and take painkillers and get some rest.. don't make plans for that day after the procedure just take it easy... 

    it's more scary cos we have been through breast cancer and now this.. sending you a warm hug .. please try not to worry 

     

  • I second what rks has said about hysteroscopy.  I had one two years ago just before I was diagnosed with BC. I had a thickened endometrium which needed checking out but it's not necessarily anything sinister so try not to worry too much, and mine was fine.   I wouldn't say I found the procedure painful but it was uncomfortable.  Usually they inject the cervix with local, but not always as they didn't with a friend of mine but I would ask for this.  Good luck and try not to stress too much, it's soon over.

    Mary

  • Thank you Mary. A good night's sleep has put everything in perspective and I am grateful for your response. I hope this finds you well after your BC

  • Hello Westerlees and thanks for posting, 

    I am glad that you are feeling less alarmed this morning and have had some helpful insight from others who have posted.  

    Hysteroscopies are a routine investigation when the womb lining (endometrium) is found to be thicker than normal. I don't think you need to be overly worried about needing to have one, but I think most people find this sort of situation a bit unsettling until they have had it done and have the results. I hope you don't have too long to wait. 

    If you want to talk anything over please give us a ring. Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are around weekdays 9-5. 

    Best wishes, 

    Julia