Hello everyone,
I wanted to pop on here to see if anyone had experienced anything similar. My mind’s a mess and has been for a while now (which I’m sure many here will understand)
brief history:
2021 - 1st HR HPV+ smear (with ectropian)
2022 - 2nd HR HPV+ smear
2023 - 3rd HR HPV+ smear and referred for colposcopy as standard procedure. By this point my period have started to get noticeably more painful and heavier.
March 2023 - Colposcopy done. Dye showed nothing concerning so no biopsy was taken. However examiners computer wasn’t working so he had no history to go off aside from my word. So I was never very confident in these results. However I was referred back on to the 3 yearly smear test group.
Early 2024 - ultrasound done on a swollen lymph node in right side of groin, had been present for over 12 months. Results said reactive node (told I need not worry about this lymph node as it’s only reactive)
Throughout 2024 - Periods noticeably heavier, requiring a visit to A&E at one point due to the amount of blood loss. Extremely painful periods. Fatigue increasing, back pain when cooking or standing for long periods of time. I started discovering brown smeared cervical mucus when wiping mid cycle, and then finally in August I experienced a 5 day bleed following sex (this was 2 days past LMP) I also had two breakouts of herpes virus which I have only had once in my life prior to this year.
I had called the GP numerous times about this and it was always dismissed. After bleeding after sex I pushed for an apt. I was told no smear as I wasn’t due again until 2026 but that they would take a look at my vagina and cervix for me. I said yes. It was a thorough appointment where an ectropian was noted and I was asked if I would like to be referred to colposcopy for an ectropian ablation - I of course said yes..
September/October 2024 -
Colposcopy done, visual HPV changes seen and 3 punch biopsies taken. Results showed CIN1 present and iv been told now that I will be seen again in 12 months to see whether my body has naturally cleared the CIN1 or not.
November 2024 - (new) small lump noticed on the inside of my labia majora right at the top above and to the left of my clitoris. Lump has doubled in size over the last 2 weeks this lump was not there when I had my colposcopy so is a new lump. I have phoned the GP who have advised I call in the morning for a same day appointment regarding this
I’m scared… I’m worried… my body hasn’t been able to shift the HPV and I have doubt it will be able to shift the CIN1 and I’m now worried that the HPV has potentially caused issues with my vulva which I know is a risk of HPV albeit a rare one.
How was everyone else diagnosed and what symptoms did you have in terms of vulvar cancer?
My family keep telling me I am obsessing and need to stop worrying over my health but I feel if I didn’t and had waited until 2026 I would be in a much worse position that I am now!
Hi Btvs and welcome to the group.
I can understand your concerns, and as you’ve mentioned worries about cervical cancer (which I had) I’ve replied to you here just to say hello.
I think when you have worries about potential cancer you can look to compare yourselves to others, but I’m not necessarily sure that this is helpful, as we are all different and it may worry you more to read others’ stories without your own diagnosis.
I think the best thing to do is wait to see your gp tomorrow to see what is needed next. If your gp has concerns you should be referred to a gynaecologist for further checks-do not panic about any wording on a referral which says “suspected cancer” as this is standard to ensure you are seen quicker. The gp cannot diagnose cancer, but is looking for any symptoms which might indicate it is a possibility.
Please come back and let us know how you get on, and there will be plenty support for you here if you get any diagnosis of cancer.
Sarah xx
Hi Ex Lancashire Lass, it’s absolutely working overtime yes 
I have been told to call at 8am to get a same day appointment tomorrow as they had none left for today, so I’ll do that. It really does just feel like a squishy big boil/cyst but if I pinch it and lift it .. it almost feels like it has a root under it like a tendon. I completely understand both you and SarahH21 saying similar things re others symptoms and diagnosis as logically I know you’re both right and it would only worry me further. Thank you for taking the time to reply though it really does help xx
