The practice has identified all the women involved

Fears emerged that diseases such as HIV and hepatitis could have been passed on as a result of the incident at the Newland Medical Practice in Bathgate, West Lothian.

Lothian NHS Board launched an investigation after it was revealed unsterilised equipment had been used at the health centre over an 18-month period.

The practice has identified 98 women who may have been caught up in the scare, but on Tuesday, the health board said the information helpline had received more than 400 calls.

A spokeswoman for the health board said: "This helpline is open for any female patients of the Newland Medical Practice who had a vaginal examination using a metal speculum between March 25, 2002, and November 3, 2003, and has any concerns about this incident."

Apology

Letters have been hand-delivered to the 98 women identified by the practice offering information and advice.

Appointments have also been arranged to allow women to discuss their concerns and arrange counselling.

Dr Brian Montgomery, medical director at West Lothian Healthcare NHS Trust, has apologised for the "upset and concern" caused by the incident.

He said: "I want to reassure the women that advice from medical experts in this area is that the risk of them contracting an infection as a result of this incident is low."

The Newland practice has now introduced single-use disposable speculae.

The helpline can be contacted daily between 0800 and 2200 GMT on 01506 422 816.