Ovarian cancer after breast cancer?

Hi Caroline,

Has your gp booked an ultrasound? Your post reads like they have so I'll assume they have, an ultrasound will show any issues with your ovaries, it shouldn't delay any diagnosis. I had a dodgy womb but also had cysts on my ovaries, diagnosis for me was an ultrasound, an appointment with a gynaecologist and then a biopsy, if your scan shows anything to worry about on your ovaries I think the next step would be a laparoscopy and from there a diagnosis.

They can also do a CA125 blood test, this isn't a diagnostic tool though as it can be elevated for other reasons, but it can help rule things in or out. 

I hope that you can get some answers soon, if you explain your worries to your gp they might be able to get your scan as an urgent referral, if it's not already marked as urgent.

if it makes you feel any better, since my diagnosis of womb cancer, I've had myself at the doctors for suspected bowel cancer, had a mini colonoscopy and was all clear, suspected skin cancer / dodgy moles and got the all clear and an actual lump in my belly which was a 'fatty lump' and all clear.

I know how stressful it is waiting, good luck and let us know how you get on

lots of love

xxx

Hi Arla,

Sorry, I think what I wrote was a bit confusing now I look back at it. My GP hasn't referred me for an ultrasound yet, and I'm frustrated that by assuming it's IBS he's delaying having any gynae issues checked out. I've had a CA125 test, which came back normal, so I guess that makes ovarian cancer much less likely, but doesn't mean there aren't cysts or something else. 

The bloating and pain just aren't going away, and it's stopping me from doing my usual exercise routine and making me feel embarrassed even going into the office. Maybe it's all just a new side effect from the Tamoxifen I've been taking since January to reduce my risk of breast cancer recurrence. If it is I think I'd rather live with the risk than feeling like this 24/7  

Caroline x

Hi

the CA125 is not a reliable test for ovarian cancer as the levels can be influenced by other things. Also you can have a ‘normal’ reading but still have OC. 

Are you still seeing your oncologist for breast cancer ? If so why not have a word with her/him to discuss your concerns?  Also your CNS ?  

Can you ask your GP to arrange an ultrasound for you? 

Celia

Hi Celia,

It's a two week wait to see a GP at the moment, so I'm waiting on them getting back to me by email about my concerns, which will hopefully lead to getting an ultrasound done. It's all very slow, which I'm paranoid about having already had a different type of cancer that the doctors all thought "couldn't possibly be cancer" given my age. I've been discharged by my oncologist now and haven't seen her since I started on my breast cancer medication in January, and not sure that I have access to a CNS now that a year has passed. Feeling a bit lost.

Caroline x

I can understand your frustration and of course it has to be a doctor that requests your ultrasound - good that you are able to communicate by email at least  

i am at a loss as to what to suggest other than insisting on an urgent appointment if the pain is getting worse  x

Hi Caroline,

Your CNS might still be able to help, they are keeping me open for five years, it's worth a try. Other than that I'd keep doing as you are and try and get a scan from your gp. Whilst the wait is really annoying, and anxiety inducing, try your best to keep busy and distracted while you wait.

The Macmillan helpline has a nurse you can chat to, they can't diagnose you but might be able to put your mind at ease a bit, they are on 0808 808 0000.

lots of love

xxx