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Any experience with endometrial biopsies?

Seasnake
Offline

Hi,

I've just turned 40 and have been on combination HRT for about a year due to perimenopausal symptoms.  Randomly started getting longer bouts of spotting, and heavier periods so saw my GP who referred me for a transvaginal ultrasound. Had that yesterday, they told me the report would be at least a week. GP surgery rang today to see me as the results were back and they wanted me to come in this morning.

Results showed endometrial hyperplasia (which she said could be from the HRT but my grandmother died of uterine cancer and I've no other female relatives so it could also be cancer), pelvic congestion (I'd never even heard of this but it explains all the random niggly symptoms I thought were just part of life!) and a small ovarian cyst (not large enough to worry about torsion but no idea if it's benign or not).  She took bloods to test for some ovarian cancer marker (I forget the name, it was all a bit of a blur to be honest) and referred me to the 2 week cancer pathway.

She told me I'd likely have to have a hysteroscopy or endometrial biopsy and I'll be honest, I'm bricking it.  I'm not good with internal exams at all, especially if there's any sort of pain.  I know it's silly, in the face of a potential life-changing diagnosis, but does anyone have any experience with endometrial exams/biopsies that they'd be willing to share or offer advice on?  Thanks ♥

  • Hello Seasnake

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently had some symptoms that have resulted in you being referred for further testing. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious. 

    We have some information about endometrial biopsies on our website and hopefully some of the ladies in this community who have personal experience will pop along to share their advice and tips with you. In the meantime if you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    I hope that you don't have to wait too long for your appointment Seasnake. Do let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thanks so much Jenn, trait appreciate the reply. 

    I'd already read the website article, as well as whatever I could find on the main and local NHS websites. There's seems to be quite a discrepancy between the 'official' line and people's personal experiences, hence my fear. 

    I got a call today and have been booked in for a face to face consultation and biopsy for Wednesday. I asked about pain management and the lady on the phone seemed surprised at the question. She said they didn't offer pain relief for biopsies and to take some paracetamol beforehand if I was worried.

    I'm hoping when I get in front of whoever won be doing the procedure they might be more open to providing pain relief. It seems mad to me that they expect to perform a procedure like this with just paracetamol! 

    I'm genuinely frightened about this appointment now, I'll be honest

  • in reply to Seasnake

    Hello Seasnake

    I'm glad to hear that you already have your appointment date to speak with the specialists. It's not too long to wait. 

    We know that a lot of people share negative experiences online and not so much when people have procedures that go smoothly. Try to avoid searching Google for more information over the next few days as this will only increase your anxiety. I'd suggest giving our nurses a call to chat things through with them on Monday and you might also consider giving your GP surgery a call to discuss your concerns with them before Wednesday. 

    Do be honest with the specialists about your concern when you see them. It may be that whilst they don't routinely offer pain relief, there may be occasions when they are able to offer alternative options. However, just bear in mind that it may mean the team isn't necessarily able to do the biopsy on Wednesday, and you may have to return at another time. 

    I don't know if you have a friend or family member that you can confide in for support and who may be able to accompany you to the appointment. Sometimes it can be a real advantage to have that support with you. 

    In the meantime, try to keep yourself distracted if you can. Dwelling on the appointment won't change things but it will certainly leave you feeling worse over the next few days. 

    Let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thanks so much Jenn, I really do appreciate the advice. I'll give the nurses a call on Monday, thank you

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