Sister Melanie Hobbs is in charge of the gynaecology outpatients at St Helier Hospital.
"If your GP requests an urgent outpatient appointment for you at St Helier Hospital's women's health department, this does not necessarily mean that there is a serious problem, rather that it is important that we exclude one."
During your appointment we try to carry out as many tests as are required to ensure that all is well. For your information, the doctor or specialist nurse may:
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Take a medical history from you.
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Undertake a physical examination, including a pelvic (internal) examination, cervical smear, and possibly a biopsy of the lining of the womb, skin or cervix (neck of the womb).
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Perform an ultrasound. This may be through the abdominal (tummy) wall, as in pregnancy, or more commonly as an "internal" scan, like taking a cervical smear. This may be slightly uncomfortable, takes only a few minutes, and may be carried out during the physical examination (as above). Wearing clothes that are easy to remove may make this more convenient.
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Arrange for blood tests, ECGs (heart monitoring), and x-rays.
When we see you, we will explain what we are going to do and can answer any questions or concerns you may have.
