Lump in Vulva

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So about 4 months ago I found a lump in the left side of my vulva. 

I went to the GP and was dismissed.

I went back 1 month later and had to fight to see a GP who begrudgingly made a referral for an ultrasound without including key points like my age (49), HRT status, despite NICE guidelines. 

Radiology declined the scan as 'too superficial'. As the GP suggested it was  Bartholin cyst. He was pretty cold and sulky as I had told him this referral i wanted. 

I have no real pain at the location. I get a slight numb feeling in my labia and pain/sciatic sensation going from the lump area to my butt and down my leg.

I now have a telephone appointment scheduled for the 28th.

I am seriously considering getting a private scan or MRI for speed and peace of mind. 

I'm not sure my anxiety can take much more. Why should I have to fight when their own guidelines say there must investigate?

I am honestly scared and lost. 

Has anyone else had to fight for this of chosen the private route? 

  • You deserve to be seen and get this sorted.  Yes, it is rare, but needs checking.  I had lumps, blisters, itching and my GP placed me on the cancer pathway.  Fortunately I was operated on, all cancer removed and no further treatment needed.  Just regular check ups and scans.  
    Yes, you push for a diagnosis.  Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on.  We are all here for you.

  • Hi   I hope you are ok. How did you get on progressing? I hope everything has gone well and your anxiety calmed. 
    I had my MRI and got my results but they were a little confusing / not well explained. The gyno said I had a tiny 3 mm cyst on the right and and 1cm cyst of the left but I could see the computer screen and that it mentioned 3 cysts (couldn’t see if that was in total or 1 on the right and 3 on the left). When I pointed that out he said it was possibly 1 cyst with 3 compartments. I already knew from the ultrasound I had a tiny one on the right and 2 1cm ones on the left as the radiologist actually showed me the screen. Anyway, he was confident there was nothing to worry about and told me to come back for a check up in 6 months. But…. because he didn’t seem to be able to give me a proper run down of my results I’ve stayed anxious. So I’ve asked for a second opinion from Dr Martin Hogg a gynaecological oncologist. My MRIs have been sent to him and I have an appointment with him on 5th June. I’m probably being over the top at ploughing on with this as I have no real symptoms but I want to be sure. Everything I’ve read (apart from 1 article) suggests biopsies should be taken if over 40 if the cyst presents as unusual so I’m worrying about that. 
    if any ladies who’ve had similar have any advice I’d be really appreciative. Xxx

  • I'm sorry to hear you are anxious but I do get it. Hopefully the appointment with Mr Hogg will offer more clarity. I really hope that for you.

    I've had my appointment with the consultant gynaecologist and she said she was confident it was an asymptomatic Bartholin’s cyst.

    That really hasn't done much for my anxiety as she also said it was quite deep seated  which I understand is a thing. 

    I have another appointment with my GP next week to discuss this. 

  • I hope it goes well my lovely. I think I’m finding it hard to find a balance to advocate for myself and actually chill out. I think my original gyno will be glad to see the back of me, haha!  Hope my session with Mr Hogg will clear up the last of my worries. So glad to hear you got a good prognosis, and yes I think deep rooted asymptomatic cysts are more common than “goggle” would lead you to believe. Google loves a horror story to push you over the edge! Biggest hugs and so glad to hear that not only are you well but selfishly that you have a similar story to me, makes me feel more positive and less crazy lady. Biggest hugs xx