Postmenopausal bleeding - scheduled for a hysteroscopy and biopsy. Petrified of having anaesthetic for biopsy as I've never had it before

Hi,

It had been 27 months since I had a period and the beginning of December I started to bleed which lasted for 8 days. My GP was very helpful and within 2 weeks I went in to have an internal vaginal scan. Within an hour after leaving this appointment I received a text that based on the findings of the scan along with the post menopausal bleeding further investigation was needed. I was then scheduled in for a biopsy but unfortunately found this too painful and now have a scheduled hysteroscopy and biopsy. I have been told that the lining is thicker than the norm and is measuring 7mm. based on my symptoms everything is pointing in the direction of endometrial cancer, according to Google. I am most petrified of having anaesthetic for the biopsy as I've never had anaesthetic before rather than being told I have cancer, but can't shift the deep down feeling that it is cancer.

  • Hi Dilsarpa and thank you for posting,

    I’m sorry to hear that you’re waiting for a hysteroscopy and biopsy. Waiting for tests and results can feel very stressful and leave you feeling like things are out of your control. Many people find this time particularly difficult.

    It may help to know that all post-menopausal women with abnormal bleeding are referred for tests to rule out cancer. Most women referred this way do not have cancer, but these checks are important so that, if anything serious is found, it can be treated quickly.

    There are many non-cancerous reasons for a thickened womb lining, with the most common being hyperplasia. Unfortunately, until the test is done, no one can say for certain what the cause might be.

    Do let the hospital know of any concerns you have with having an anaesthetic, as they might be able to offer you support and give you reassurance with this.

    While you wait, some people find that keeping up with daily routines, such as work or meeting friends, can help. Easier said than done, try to take things one step at a time. I hope you have friends or family you can lean on.

    If you’d like to talk things through, you’re very welcome to call our nurses on the free helpline: 0808 800 4040 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm).

    Jemma