"Gynaecological Department and patient care"

3 months ago, I attended the Emergency Department due to severe and unbearable abdominal pain affecting my entire abdomen, including the lower abdomen. The pain was extremely intense, similar to strong contractions. Morphine and other pain relief medications did not provide any relief. I was also experiencing persistent vomiting and a severe migraine, and as a result, I was admitted to the ward (Ward 7).

After initial medical assessments, I was discharged home. I was informed that the cause of my symptoms could be related to my kidneys or liver and that I would need to wait for further imaging. No gynaecological cause was addressed at that time.

The following day, after seeing my GP, I returned to the same ward as my symptoms had significantly worsened. I was experiencing ongoing vomiting, severe headache, dizziness, and I also suffered a panic attack due to the intensity of my symptoms and the uncertainty surrounding my condition. I was given medication to reduce vomiting and slightly ease the pain. At this point, it was decided that I required a gynaecological consultation, and I was referred to the gynaecology department.

I then spent approximately eight hours in the gynaecology waiting area in significant pain and physical distress. My condition was not suitable for such circumstances — I was dizzy, nauseous, in severe pain, and had nowhere to lie down. I was forced to sit on an examination couch and eventually had to push chairs together myself in order to stretch my legs and endure the wait until the consultation.

Before the gynaecological consultation took place, I was sent back to Ward 7. By this stage, my mental state had deteriorated significantly. I was extremely distressed, overwhelmed, and frustrated due to the lack of clear information from medical staff. I was not being informed about what was happening, what had been found, or why the waiting times were so long. Only after I suffered a severe emotional breakdown and began crying did a doctor approach me and explain that something had been found in my lower abdomen and that it required assessment by a gynaecologist. However, I was not informed at that time that this was an ovarian cyst, which caused me extreme fear and distress, as I was left imagining the worst possible outcomes.

I was then required to return to the gynaecology department waiting area once again, where I spent a total of approximately eight hours. By this point, I was physically and mentally exhausted. This experience has had a lasting negative impact on my mental health, and since then I have been experiencing more frequent panic attacks, particularly when thinking about my health.

Once admitted to the gynaecology department, I was given medication that helped reduce the lower abdominal pain; however, my migraine was never addressed, and I was not provided with any medication for migraine pain.

It was also noted that my contraceptive implant should be removed, as it was past its effective date and I was not supposed to be experiencing menstrual periods. Unfortunately, the implant was not removed due to complications, and I was informed that a follow-up appointment would be arranged. This appointment was initially scheduled for 2 months' time but was cancelled two hours before the appointment time. I was then given a new appointment for the following month, which was also cancelled two hours before the scheduled time. I was informed by telephone that the entire clinic had been cancelled and that no alternative date could be provided.

As of today, I am without contraception. Last month, my contraceptive device expelled spontaneously, and I am now experiencing the return of menstrual symptoms.

I would also like to highlight that I have a history of gynaecological issues. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with uterine prolapse. During my gynaecological assessment 3 months ago, it was confirmed that the prolapse is now significantly advanced. In addition, I was diagnosed with a large ovarian cyst approximately the size of a mandarin. I was informed that this cyst would not be removed at present but should be monitored with ultrasound scans every three months.

We are now in January, and I have received no information regarding any follow-up ultrasound or gynaecology appointments. My appointments have been repeatedly rescheduled: initially planned for this month, then moved to March, and most recently postponed again to April. These continuous delays have had a severe impact on my physical health, mental wellbeing, and ability to work. I am currently on sick leave, as I am unable to perform my job due to persistent lower abdominal pain, pain radiating to my lower back, and worsening anxiety and panic attacks.

I am deeply distressed by the lack of continuity of care, the repeated cancellations, and the absence of clear communication. I am unable to obtain appropriate medical support or a clear explanation for my symptoms. All I want is to receive proper, consistent care so that my condition can be managed effectively and I can return to a normal life, including physical activity, work, and daily functioning without constant pain and fear.