Frequently asked questions
Why have I been referred to the acute gynaecology clinic?
This clinic is a rapid service for suspected cancer. Your GP has referred you because they have concerns about your symptoms or the ultrasound department has found an unusual finding on your ultrasound scan and would like you to do further tests. This NHS system is designed to make sure that patients are seen quickly by a specialist team.
If you are referred as an urgent case you will be seen within 2 weeks of the referral.
If you are referred as an routine case you will be seen within 8 weeks of the referral.
Does this mean I have cancer?
Most patients referred to the clinic do not have cancer. They will non-cancerous (benign) conditions.
However, we would like to find out what is causing your symptoms as quickly as possible to try to resolve them for you.
What happens at the acute gynaecology clinc?
Once you arrive, you check in at reception. Please expect up to an hour waiting time for your appointment. The consultant will call you in for your consultation. You will usually require an ultrasound scan of the pelvis in order to examine the womb and ovaries. This may be performed through the abdomen. You may require an internal scan, this is through the vagina using a slim probe.
You may require extra procedures such as a biopsy sample from inside the womb, smear tests and swabs. Most investigations will take place within the unit in your first visit.