Awaiting Diagnosis

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Hi

New to this forum and awaiting for my appointment with vulscopy gynaecologist in 2 weeks. Would like to know what to expect for first appointment?

Check with GP as a slight bleed and feeling discomfort down below.  Examination revealed an unexplained lump, ulceration and inflammation.   GP arranged urgent referral as a result of suspected vulva cancer.

I'm in my 60s and had a total hysterectomy in my 30s due to endometriosis.  Was diagnosed with bowel cancer 18 years ago. Had surgery and temporary stoma, followed with chemotherapy and further surgery to reverse stoma a year later.  So yes have been blessed and very fortunate to be a cancer survivor.

I'm of course very worried about this possible new cancer.  Just like to know what to expect at first consultation.   Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

  • Hello Caz1856,

    I had vulva cancer in 2022, at the mdt meeting my case was taken over by the Royal London, at my first appointment I saw a gynaecologist who asked loads of questions did a quick exam and confirmed my operation date. I had already had a biopsy, ct scan, bloods etc done at my local hospital. I meet the Macmillian nurse then and the cancer care assistant. They gave me lots of information one particular book I would recommend reading, its by MacMillan, understanding cancer of the vulva. You can download it. It’s so informative and I only saw it in the waiting room when I was having my first checkup after surgery. I only wish I had it before my operation as it answered all my questions and put my mind at rest.  Good luck with your appointment and if you have any questions just post on this site and someone will be able to help you.

    • Hi Caz1856 I was diagnosed in June 2023 stage 3a vulva cancer and had on my first visit with gynaecologist the dr did a biopsy this was painless, the only painful part was the sting from anaesthetic injection. It took 2 weeks for results and due to other health issues I didn’t have my operation until November 2024. I had a partial vulvectomy which I also had my lymph nodes removed from both groins. The worst part was the drains as they were awkward but I’m now 15 months post op, no chemo or radiotherapy required luckily and still cancer free. I hope you get results and are ok soon xx 
  • Hello Caz1856,

    So sorry that you are facing this after your previous cancer treatment.  I was diagnosed with vulva cancer in 2023 after seeing the GP with severe itching and blistering in the area.  Was put on cancer pathway and had two biopsies.  The numbing injection was uncomfortable. Unfortunately it was 8 weeks before I got the results.  Was sent for a CT scan and saw the consultant a few days later.  The scan showed no spread.  My consultant/surgeon was lovely and he examined me and explained what the operation would be, a wide local excision and removal of clitoris as that was in the margins of the cancer, also lymph nodes on either side in groin.

    Had my op in June 2023 and all cancer was removed an all the boundaries were clear.  No further treatment was needed.  Regular check ups and all is well so far.

    I hope this has helped you but feel free to ask anything you need.

    Elaine