colposcopy matter
Hi,
I had a baby in May 2009. I had a smear test in Dec 2009 (CIN 1). I had a repeat smear in June 2010 (no longer CIN 1 but still boarderline abnormalities). I have a colposcopy appointment for Nov 2010. I am trying to have a 2nd baby. I have a history of vaginismus and have difficulty tolerating smears. I think I will need to get a valium or similar to tolerate colposcopy. So I am unsure what to do - should I pursue the colposcopy sooner than nov. privately so I can take valium and then resume trying to get pregnant. Or should I go with Nov. appointment and if I get pregnant before that is there a drug I can take to relax me that isnt harmful to the baby. I dont want to put off trying to get pregnant as Im nearly 40. Id appreciate advice. Thanks
Hi Yvonne,
Have you had a colposcopy before? I've had several abnormal smears and a couple colposcopies. I actually found the colposcopy easier than the smear. I think its because they use a camera and more specialist equipment, lighting, chair, etc. and so can find your cervix easier than a GP can.
If I were you though, I would ring the hospital you are due to visit (ask for the secretary who looks after the colposcopy unit), explain you are trying to get pregnant soon and just ask if there is any chance your appointment could be pulled in earlier. They may say no but there is no harm in asking! If they cannot see you earlier and you can afford it, or your VHI will cover it, then I would look into a private appt. Apart from delaying your pregnancy, its not nice to have these things looming over us so I find it better to get them out of the way as early as poss so I don't waste time worrying about them!
I would then call wherever you are due to have the appt and ask to speak to a colposcopy nurse. Then explain your history of vaginismus and your anxiety over the procedure and ask about being given (or taking) a relaxant beforehand. Obviously, if you are taking one beforehand, make sure you have someone to drive you there and back again (or accompany you on bus/train).
Finally, you don't say you are but please don't worry too much about cervical cancer. Abnormalities and CIN1 are only slight changes in the cells in the cervix and you have been very good about having regular smears and staying on top of the slight abnormalities seen. Cervical cancer is normally very slow growing which is why regular smears and follow ups are so successful at catching precancerous changes and preventing them from ever turning into cancer.
Good luck.
Flo.