Gynaecology Rapid Access Clinic

Why have I been referred to the Rapid Access Clinic?

You have been referred by your doctor because you have symptoms which could be caused by a gynaecological cancer. These may include irregular vaginal bleeding, bleeding after the menopause, or unexplained bleeding whilst on hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some women may have bleeding after sexual intercourse.

Your doctor has requested this appointment for you to have further tests to exclude or confirm a gynaecological cancer.

How long will I wait to get an appointment?

You will usually be given an appointment within two weeks if your GP has made an urgent referral. We work hard to make sure there are enough clinics to keep waiting times as short as possible.

Our aim is to see all urgent referrals and provide a diagnosis within 28 days. Sometimes the clinic becomes very busy and appointments may run later than planned. We apologise if you experience any delays and appreciate your understanding.

What should I do before my appointment?

One hour before your appointment you are advised to take paracetamol (1 gram) as long as you are not allergic and do not have any reason to avoid it.

Please also bring a list of your medications.

What will happen at my appointment?

The clinic provides a one stop service performing the investigations you need on the same day as your appointment. This means your appointment may take up to two hours.

Ultrasound Scan

You will first see the sonographer for an ultrasound scan. This is a test that allows assessment of the uterus (womb), endometrium (lining of the womb) and ovaries.

An ultrasound probe with a protective sheath is gently inserted into the vagina. There may be some mild discomfort but it should not be painful. The scan should only take a few minutes.

Consultation

You will then be seen by a consultant gynaecologist or a member of their team. They will ask about your symptoms, your general health and your medical history. They will explain the results of your ultrasound scan and discuss what next steps they would recommend.

Examination

With your consent, the doctor will offer you a pelvic examination. This involves using a speculum like when you have a smear test.

Endometrial biopsy

Depending on your symptoms, history and scan findings, the doctor may recommend an endometrial biopsy. This involves passing a fine tube through the cervix (neck of the womb) to collect a sample of the lining of the womb. You may have some period type pain during this procedure but it usually settles quickly. Taking the biopsy takes only a few minutes and the sample is then sent to the laboratory to be examined under a microscope.

Outpatient Hysteroscopy

After talking through your results, the doctor may recommend a hysteroscopy. This is a procedure to examine the inside of the uterus (womb) by using a fine telescope called a hysteroscope. It allows the doctor to make a more detailed assessment of the lining of the womb and look for any abnormalities.

You may feel some discomfort during this procedure so we have a number of pain relief options available if needed. This includes Entonox (gas and air) or local anaesthetic. Most women cope with the procedure very well but it can be stopped at any time so it is important to let your doctor know if it is painful. If a polyp is seen within the uterus, it can be removed at the same visit using additional instruments.

A polyp is a ‘skin-tag’ like growth coming from the lining of the womb that can cause irregular bleeding. The hysteroscopy itself usually only takes 10 to15 minutes.

Will I be given a follow up appointment?

Most people will not need a follow-up appointment because we try to diagnose and treat you during your first visit.

If you have a biopsy, we will contact you with the results or arrange a follow-up if needed. You will usually receive a results letter 2 to 4 weeks after your biopsy.

Do not be concerned if you are given a follow-up appointment. Many people who have had a biopsy are asked to come back. This may be because the doctor can explain your results, arrange more tests, or offer treatment. We only book follow-up appointments when they are needed, so if you are asked to return, it is because the doctor feels it is important to see you again.

Please make sure we have the correct phone number for you, as we may need to get in touch at short notice.

Please try to attend any follow-up appointment offered, as our slots are always in demand. If you are unable to keep the appointment please ring the Booking Office to reschedule your appointment. Their number is at the end of this page.

Can I get my result by phone?

We do not give results over the phone unless this has been discussed with you beforehand. If someone calls you to offer an appointment, they will not know your result or the reason you need a follow-up.

What do I do if I have not been contacted about my follow up?

We expect that all our patients will have been informed about their results or follow-up plans within 28 days of their biopsy.

If you have heard anything after 28 days, or you have any questions or concerns following your appointment, please contact your consultant’s secretary. The number will be at the top of your letter or they can be contacted through the hospital switchboard.

Contact Information

Booking Office

Tel: 0300 422 4506