Patient leaflets: before and after examinations
Practical guidance before and after common examinations and procedures. Always follow your individual instructions; this general information does not replace them. Call 112 in a life-threatening emergency.
Urgent problems after a visit or procedure
For an urgent problem potentially related to your recent visit or procedure, follow the aftercare instructions personally provided to you. Do not wait until the next working day if this is unsafe. The confirmed number for urgent problems after your visit is +31 85 301 6200. For other urgent symptoms contact your huisarts or huisartsenpost. Do not use an urgent line for appointments, administration, routine questions or prescriptions that can wait.
Cervical sampling, cytology and HPV
A sample from the cervix is examined for HPV and/or cell changes. Tell the practice about pregnancy, bleeding or current intimate symptoms. Bring previous cytology, HPV, colposcopy or tissue-examination results and confirm preparation with the practice.
The timing of consultation and sampling depends on the test and your situation. Mention menstruation and other symptoms; do not postpone assessment of concerning symptoms simply because of your cycle, pregnancy or waiting for screening.
Minor, short-lived spotting may occur afterwards. Contact the practice for substantially heavier, persistent or increasing bleeding or other worrying symptoms. Agree how and when results will be communicated; contact the practice if the agreed time passes without a result.
Gynaecological ultrasound
A vaginal ultrasound assesses the uterus and ovaries using sound waves rather than X-rays. An empty bladder is usually needed. An abdominal approach may require a full bladder depending on the purpose. Confirm preparation.
After an ultrasound alone, you can usually resume everyday activities. Significant new or increasing symptoms require medical advice regardless of the examination. Follow separate instructions if sampling or a procedure was also performed.
IUD insertion and removal
Cramping and light bleeding may occur after insertion; bleeding patterns can change depending on the device. In the first days, contact the doctor the same day for fever, severe or worsening lower abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or substantially increased, changed or unpleasant-smelling discharge. If you think the IUD is not correctly positioned, arrange assessment. Do not wait for a scheduled check when these symptoms occur.
Follow-up is arranged individually. Depending on insertion, device and clinical circumstances, the doctor may suggest a check, possibly with ultrasound, after a few weeks.
Brief pain or light bleeding can occur after straightforward removal. Contact the practice for significant, persistent or increasing symptoms. If you do not want pregnancy, discuss subsequent contraception before removal and use condoms or avoid sex during the preceding seven days. Follow separate advice if an additional procedure was needed.
Ultrasound of kidneys, bladder and lower abdomen
The published preparation describes about 600 ml of water around one hour beforehand, then avoiding urination until the scan. A full bladder helps imaging. Tell staff on arrival if you cannot hold it. Follow any different individual instructions from your clinician. You can urinate and resume normal activities afterwards.
Urology information · Preparing for your appointment · Contact