Rapid Access Gynaecology Clinic

This leaflet contains information about your appointment at our Rapid Access Gynaecology Clinic. It lets you know about the services we offer and what to expect when you come to our clinic.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please ask a nurse or doctor at the clinic.

Why have I been referred to the clinic?

You have been referred by your GP and you will be offered an appointment within 1 to 2 weeks.  

This referral system is to make sure that patients with symptoms that may be caused by a cancer are seen quickly by a specialist team.

We aim to complete all investigations within 28 days of receipt of your GP referral, so it is important that you are available and attend all appointments and investigations.

Does this mean that I have cancer?

No. More than 90% of gynaecological patients referred through this system do not have cancer. However, we want to find out what is causing your symptoms as quickly as possible so that we can work out how best to help you.

Gynaecological cancers include cancers of the vulva, vagina, cervix, womb, fallopian tube and ovaries.

Who will I see at the clinic?

• You will see a team of specialist doctors and nurses who are experienced in gynaecological cancer and led by our Gynae-oncology lead, one of our Senior Gynaecologists.
• You will always have a female chaperone with you during your examination.
• If for any reason you wish to be seen/examined only by a female doctor please call our administration team on the contact details at the bottom of this leaflet.

What happens at the clinic?

When you arrive at the clinic you will have a consultation with a gynaecologist.  You will be asked about:

• Your previous medical history
• When your symptoms began and how they affect you
• Details of any medications you are taking
• Your family history and details of any family members who have, or have had, similar symptoms or problems.

What tests and investigations could I have?

We will measure your height and weight.  You may be asked to provide a urine sample and we may do some blood tests. Other investigations you may have are:

• Abdominal and vaginal ultrasound scan: a vaginal ultrasound involves placing a small probe into your vagina which produces a ‘picture’ of your womb and ovaries on a monitor.   The scan may be uncomfortable, but should not hurt.
• Vaginal examination – this may also include a small specimen (biopsy) being taken from your vagina or the lining of your womb. This may cause a cramp or period-like pain which may last for a short time. 
• You may need to undergo further investigations on another day. These will be discussed with you during your consultation if required.

How long will I be at the clinic?

• Please allow 2 to 3 hours for your consultation, investigations and treatment.  The amount of time you spend in our clinic may vary depending on which tests are needed.

When will I get my results?

• We understand that this is an anxious time for you and so you will be informed of any results as quickly as possible.   These will be provided by text message or by telephone call.
• At your first appointment, you will be invited to complete a consent form for our text message results service.  Please ensure that the mobile number you provide is your own and the same number that is registered with your GP practice. Unfortunately, you cannot use someone else’s mobile number for the text result service.
• The text message service is used for biopsy (histology) results. It is not used for blood tests or scan results.
• If you would prefer not to receive your results by text message you will receive a telephone call.
• More detailed results, along with blood tests and scan results, will be provided in either a letter or telephone appointment.  

What follow up will I have?

• If further follow up is needed based on your symptoms or results, this will be arranged at an appropriate time.   You will be offered a detailed discussion about the outcome of your tests and any other investigations, treatment or support, if anything further is needed.

Contacts

Gynaecology Administrative Service	020 8934 6407  khn-tr.gynaecology@nhs.net
Gynaecological Clinical Nurse Specialist	020 8934 6326