cervix

During the biopsy, which found a polyp on her cervix which was then removed without warning, Mrs Lord repeatedly said it was "really painful" but was not offered pain relief, she said.

Kate Dyson, 44, from Hastings, underwent the surgery six months ago after having a subtotal hysterectomy just over four years ago to remove her uterus - a procedure which leaves the cervix in place.

She was referred for an internal ultrasound and recalled feeling extremely anxious when a nurse couldn't locate her cervix and more staff were called in for second opinions.

Cancer Research UK urged women and people with a cervix not to wait for a screening invitation if they noticed any unusual changes.

It also stayed attached to the left fallopian tube and cervix.