Pune: Government hospitals are often perceived as lacking advanced treatment and precise diagnosis, but 30-year-old Sangeeta (name changed), a resident of Jambe in Pimpri Chinchwad, experienced otherwise. Thanks to timely and proper care at Pune Municipal Corporation’s Kamala Nehru Hospital, she not only overcame her illness but found a fresh start in life, though the journey was far from easy.
Sangeeta had long suffered from severe stomach pain, excessive menstrual bleeding, weakness, and nausea. Last October, she sought treatment at Thergaon Hospital under the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, where doctors diagnosed her with adenomyosis, a uterine condition and irregular menstruation.
They suggested inserting a device called ‘Mirena,’ which releases the progestin hormone to control symptoms. However, her husband, a rickshaw driver, could not afford the ₹5,000–₹10,000 expense, and they left without further treatment. Her ordeal continued.
Meanwhile, Dr. Pranali Vetal, a medical officer at the Municipal Corporation’s Separate Barate Hospital in Warje Malwadi, learned about Sangeeta’s condition through a rickshaw driver who knew her. Dr. Vetal called Sangeeta in on May 31, took a thorough history, and discovered she had been experiencing continuous bleeding for a month, which only briefly subsided with pills.
Her health was deteriorating due to severe blood loss. Recognising the urgency, Dr. Vetal referred her to Kamala Nehru Hospital. A CT scan on June 4 revealed she also had appendicitis, which had been overlooked.
Unexpected complications during surgery
When Sangeeta was taken in for appendix surgery, she suddenly began bleeding heavily again. The surgical team decided to address her uterine issue immediately along with removing her appendix. They also administered hormonal injections to control her menstrual problems.
After a successful operation and recovery, Sangeeta was discharged last week. Today, she is pain-free and her bleeding has stopped, thanks to the dedicated and skilled doctors in the government healthcare system.
“Sangeeta thought her stomach pain was due to menstrual issues, but it turned out to be appendicitis which had gone unnoticed. This case shows how timely diagnosis and urgent treatment are vital in curing patients. The coordination between surgeons and gynecologists at Kamala Nehru Hospital ensured her recovery.”Dr. Pranali Vetal, Medical Officer, Separate Barate Hospital, Warje Malwadi