Hi, I was diagnosed with Vulval cancer end of January 2026, waiting for the op to remove it and 1 lymph node. Obviously scared and anxious, but hoping to feel better after reading your journeys getting through it. Sending hugs to you all.
Sorry to hear of your diagnosis and hope you don’t have too long to wait for your surgery. I had my operation in June 2023 and all my cancer was removed witc clear lymph nodes too. No further treatments were needed. Please ask any questions you have and I will do my best to answer you. Please keep in touch.
Thanks for your reply. Glad yours was successful and now C free. Just had a call to say my op is 23 March, 8 weeks from diagnosis. I was originally told it would be 4-6 weeks, so now anxious I have to wait longer. They're removing 2 lymph nodes, 1 each side too. I'm probably more worried about getting lymphedema (I'm 61) as that sounds nasty (also removing all the C). How long did it take to recover after the op and could you walk much? Thank you xx
I was 73 when I had my op. it took much longer to Han I hoped, probably about 8 weeks before my walking was back to normal as the area rubbed. As it was in summer it was as ok to go without underwear, as I was advised. Uncomfortable sitting and I still sit on a cushion.
I didn’t have a hula hoop cushion but maybe I should. I can manage sitting on soft chairs ok but prefer the extra comfort when sitting on a dining chair. I did have swelling and puffiness for a few weeks but it did go eventually. I found using a peri bottle for cleanliness and dabbing dry with disposable cotton cloths , while ch I got from Amazon. You can also dampen them and use as wet wipes to clean too, then just put them in the bin, I still do that now .
Glad the swelling went away eventually. Yes sitting is uncomfortable now, even before my op, so probably get a 'holy' cushion. I was thinking of getting a peri bottle too and will look for some disposable cotton cloths. Thanks for the advice.
My op is on 5 March so getting nervous.
How often do you have check ups and what do they do?
Hello, I had my second WLE on 12th Jan (5 weeks ago tomorrow). I would say the first 2-3 weeks are definitely uncomfortable, but bearable. Don’t plan to do a lot in this time. I found a Sitz bath invaluable, and also a doughnut/hula hoop cushion. I’m happy to answer any other specific questions if I can. I am also 61.
At first my check ups were every three months for the first year then 4 months for the second year. I am now on 6 months. My next is June then hopefully yearly until my 5 years is complete, which is 2028
It varies in how the check ups go, Sometimes inserting digitally into vulva like the smears. checking your stitched area etc. Feeling lymph nodes in groin. Nothing too distressing.
