Calgary Women's Health Centre - Calgary, Alberta

Leanne K.

I wanted to share my experience at the Colposcopy Clinic. I was terrified of the procedure (like 11/10 anxiety for the last three days), but the staff at the clinic were really incredible. I was seen by a nurse soon after I arrived and she explained everything to me very thoroughly which put me a bit more at ease. After that, I was waiting about an hour for my appointment. They tell you to expect to be in the clinic for 60-90 minutes for the procedure, which seems accurate to me.

I was very worried about the procedure itself, but the doctor was kind, and explained everything that she was doing before and during the procedure. She showed me all the tools she was using too which I appreciated. A nurse held my hand during the colposcopy which I also appreciated. I needed a lot of emotional support and everyone there was very good.

Some things that might be helpful to know:

1. Parking for the clinic is rough, but the parkade across from the clinic is relatively close by, and we found parking on the roof.

2. I took a prescription pain killer and muscle relaxant about two hours before my procedure which helped with cramping. (I am probably still loopy which accounts for any spelling and grammar errors in this!) In general I wish there was more pain mangement offered to women for procedures like this.

3. That being said, the doctor did use a numbing spray on my cervix to help with pain. She said the spray doesn't help with pain from biopsies inside the cervix, but does help with pain from biopsies on the outside. The pain from cramping during the inside biopsy was definitely there, but manageable (snaps for pain killers and muscle relaxants).

4. During my procedure they showed a view of my cervix on a TV screen which was definitely an experience.

5. The speculum they used was pre-warmed and the doctor let me insert it myself which I also found very helpful. It made me feel like I had more control over the situation.

Pain-wise, it was more painful than a pap smear but much, much less painful (and much faster) than an IUD insertion.

I hope this helps if you're as nervous as I was. Sending you good vibes from a stranger on the internet!

Janna J.

I wish I could remember the names of the nurses who were of great help during my visit. The first nurse during intake was very informative about all potential scenarios and outcomes of my exam and possible side effects/discomfort. The second nurse in the exam room was also quick and efficient and lastly when the doctor came in, it only took a few minutes total to complete. Having sufficient information and care before and after the exam took the fear away from it and I am thankful for that outcome (as I did go in with anxiety but left without it:))

Marlene I.

I was in yesterday for a Pap smear and colposcopy. The doctor shoved the speculum in so hard I rose off the table. She then shoved it in further a few more times. Each time I gripped the table in pain. I have had this procedure done a few previous times and have never had any pain. It seemed like she did not any lubricant to ease it in. This is not acceptable.

Souhir G.

I had an appointment at 1:00 but I stuck in the middle because of an accident (not my fault) I tried to call and called the hospital receptionist and transferred 2 times but no answer to tell them I will be there in 10 to 15 minutes maximum and I arrived 1:15 to tell that the nurse can’t see me and I need to reschedule which is after another month and my situation gets more worse I don’t know how is this system worming, no sympathy no consideration for anything . Putting in mind that I waited almost half an hour for my previous appointment

Katherine H.

The staff is incredibly amazing. I always feel very comfortable during my visits. Highly recommended!

Jocelyn C.

I went to see Dr Thornton for an iud insertion, I was extremely nervous due to my last experience with another physician. She was very professional, peaked in to make sure i was okay while waiting for her, and made the procedure so quick and painless. I would 10/10 recommend her!

Megan S.

I want to leave a review for anyone feeling nervous about their first time coming to this clinic. Yes, wait times can be long here but the medical field can be that way. Bring a book. Besides that, everyone here is so kind. Any time I’ve had procedures, the nurses and doctors have been so genuine and informative and I feel taken care of.

Stephanie B.

Always busy but they get to you quickly. My only complaint is the cardboard tampons after the procedure. I know they are expensive but please... upgrade to the plastic applicators.