Press Release - Pain relief first for Hywel Dda

Hywel Dda University Health Board has become the first in Wales to use a special pain relief inhaler, usually used in emergency care situations for gynaecology outpatients. 

From Monday 5 October, the Gynaecology Team will begin a three-month pilot using Penthrox®, a fast-acting, patient-controlled pain relief inhaler, to support patients undergoing outpatient gynaecology procedures.  

Helen Frise Jones, Gynaecology Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist, at Hywel Dda said: “Many gynaecological procedures can be uncomfortable and can cause anxiety for patients. This pilot aims to make these experiences more comfortable, more manageable, and less stressful by offering effective pain relief during treatment. 

“Penthrox® is already widely and safely used in emergency care settings. By introducing it into gynaecology outpatient services, we will become the first health board in Wales to offer this innovative option to patients.” 

The pilot has the potential to improve patient comfort while also reducing the need for general anaesthesia in selected cases. This could help streamline care and accelerate important diagnostic pathways, including the Urgent Suspected Cancer pathway, potentially reducing waiting times by an estimated two to three weeks.  

Throughout the pilot, the team will gather and review patient feedback to better understand the impact of Penthrox® on patient experience, treatment pathways, and service delivery. The findings will help determine how this approach can contribute to improving both patient care and access to timely treatment in the future. 

Helen Frise Jones, Gynaecology Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: 

"We are delighted to introduce Penthrox® as part of this pilot. Our priority is always to provide the best possible experience for patients. Being the first health board in Wales to offer this within gynaecology outpatients is an exciting step forward for our service. 

“This initiative reflects the team's commitment to improving patient-centred care and exploring innovative ways to enhance both patient experience and clinical outcomes.”