Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 2 replies
  • Views 112 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Colposcopy/LLETZ under Anesthetic - what happens after?

GhostMinnie
Offline

I have struggled and not been able to have a smear test due to pain and the doctor/nurse not physically being able to do one so I am going to be having one as a colposcopy and LLETZ under anesthetic soon. One thing I'm not sure on is as I am a day patient, will I be in a hospital bed? A lot of the information given on the procedures assumes you are awake for them so doesn't give specifics on how it is after waking up. For example, am I going to be in a gown and undressed in a bed or will someone redress me while I am asleep still? 

I'm nervous for it because I have no idea what to expect outside of the explanation of the actual procedure - they told me I would be brought back around and I would have to cough up a breathing tube and then would stay until I can pass water but I'm just worried about the small things, such as will they put a pad under me in case of bleeding until I wake up as I won't be able to immediately put underwear on. Especially as I am a wheelchair user (I can transfer and have no limited movement - just feet are amputated) I just don't know the logistics of what will happen afterwards. 

I know it may seem strange to not worry about the procedure and just worry about what happens before and after, but maybe thats how I'm managing stress! Thank you in advance!

  • Hi GhostMinnie and thank you for your post.

    Thank you for sharing your worries. It’s completely normal to feel nervous about the little details.

    Usually on the day of your procedure, you will change into a hospital gown and your clothes and belongings will be kept safe. During the procedure, you will be asleep and the team will make sure you are covered and comfortable. When you wake up, you will be in a recovery area, usually lying on a bed, still in your gown. Nurses will check on you and make sure you are okay. They will place a pad under you in case of bleeding, so you won’t be left uncovered.

    Once you are fully awake and feel well enough, you can get dressed again, and staff will help if you need it. You will stay until you have had a drink, maybe a light snack, and passed urine. Most people go home the same day.

    If you use a wheelchair or need extra help, let the nurses know when you arrive. They are used to supporting people and will make sure you are safe and comfortable.

    I hope this gives you a little insight into what to expect on the day.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support

    It might help to talk things through with one of our nurses on the helpline. You can call for free on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

    Kind regards

    Tina

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Tina

    Hi Tina

    Thank you for taking the time to respond. Your message has helped a lot and eased some of my worry! Again, thank you so much.

    Regards
    GhostMinnie

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.