Signs and symptoms
posted by KiKi86
08 July 2013

Cervical Cancer Symptoms

Last reply: 20 July 2013 13:47

Hi all.

This is my first post on here, I am hoping to find some answers from people who are going through similar issue as I am finding it difficult to get information from the health professionals.

I have had two abnormal smear tests and so was referred on for a colposcopy and biopsy's. I was then informed, after waiting 12 weeks for the results, that I had to have a repeat colposcopy 8 weeks later to "confirm results". I have been trying to put it to the back of my mind since then. My appointment is for the 18th of July but then there will be more waiting on more results. Has this happened to anyone else? I thought the colposcopy should have indicated what the next step should be.

Also I have been experiencing urethritis from intercourse. It has happened four or five times in the last three months. The symptoms are increase frequency to urinate, urinary retention due to swelling of the urethra, pain when urinating. The GP has given me Valium at times to reduce the swelling and allow me to void my bladder with some ease. She has also put me on antibiotics for 28 days. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced anything similar? Could this be related to the cervical issues or just a horrible co-incidence? The GP seems willing to dismiss it but it has been happening far too often now. I have been with the same partner for 7 years so I find it difficult to accept that all of a sudden for no reason this is happening every time we have intercourse. We have given the healing times longer and longer in between bouts of this urethritis but it hasn't made any difference.

I will of course bring this up in the clinic at my appointment but in the meantime I would really appreciate hearing other women's experiences?

3 comments

Comments

commented by Irish Cancer Society
11 July 2013

11 July 2013 16:43

Dear KiKi86,

I’m sorry you have not heard from anyone on the message board yet hopefully you will hear from others soon. It is understandable to feel worried when you are waiting for tests and biopsies to take place.

Please feel free to contact us here on the National Cancer Helpline FreeFone 1800 200 700 (Mon-Thur 9-7, fri 9-5) and you can speak with a cancer nurse confidentially.

Kind regards.

commented by KiKi86
19 July 2013

19 July 2013 21:18

Repeat colposcopy was yesterday. They used idodine dye after acetic acid and the dye highlighted cell changes so they proceeded to take numerous biopsys. During the procedure the doctor and colposcopy nurse asked about my previous experience and as I disclosed that I found it very painful they offered a local anaesthetic. It did sting, but it was well worth it. I would high recommend anyone undergoing biopsys to request it. Especially if it is a repeat colposcopy and you found the first one particularly painful.

I am now, like many of you, playing the waiting game. I am really worried about the results. The nurse did mention that 50% of results come back all clear but I just feel as though the odds are stacked against me, with two previous abnormal smears and one previous abnormal colposcopy and biopsy. I am however doing my best to stay optimistic.

For anyone who is waiting on their first colposcopy best of luck, and don't be afraid to discuss it with your doctor and colposcopy nurse. They will do anything and everything they can to try minimise your stress and discomfort.

commented by Resolute
20 July 2013

20 July 2013 13:47

Hello KiKi86!

Welcome aboard! Sorry to hear that you had to go through a second colposcopy and are now waiting for the results. Four years ago I had a CIN III result on a smear and had a colposcopy done which revealed that I needed to have a LLETZ procedure to remove all the cells. I had this done as a day patient, with a follow up smear at 6 months and then yearly since then. With only one more left to go, thankfully they have all proved negative Image removed. Try not to worry, we really do have a fantastic service now when it comes to these things and in the event that you do need treatment you will be well looked after!

Resolute

© Irish Cancer Society 1999-2024 All Rights Reserved

Irish Cancer Society Head office, 43/45 Northumberland Road Dublin, D04 VX65; Charity Regulatory Authority No. 20009502; Revenue Number CHY5863; Company Number 20868.