MY CANCER IS BACK AFTER 4 AND A HALF YEARS

So sorry that you have had this devastating news, we all live in fear that it will return. I’m 2 years post surgery, and ok at moment, but hopefully someone on here who has had cancer return chips in to let you know you are not alone and can reassure you a bit. Have you got a maggies near you? They have fax to face support and probably have a gynae cancer group where you can talk more openly with other sufferers. Take care from Storm 24 

I'm so sorry you are faced with this cancer.   I hope you have as good an outcome as I have had by having the radiation and chemo treatment.  It sounds exactly like the treatment I had in 2012.  I tolerated the treatment well and have been cancer free since.  The radiation has caused changes to my skin over the years but hasn't kept me from an active life.  

Thank you for your response. 

I'm really pleased you are doing well. 

Having chemo is really scary and I'm worried about it.  

What are the changes to your skin and what are they.

I hope this doesn't bring back bad memories for you 

Xx

I was single at the time but you can expect your vagina and rectum to get tight.  In time, that will improve.  I'm now 82 and over the years have had some minor bleeding.  Apparently the radiation causes this.  You might want to ask your radiologist about this.   As we age our skin gets thinner so it also itches.  My radiologist didn't tell me about the long term effects.  

Ok

I'm 74 so I'm not worried any intimate issues. 

I was told I might have some bowel and bladder issues so have bought some protective underwear. 

I was also told that using a dilator would help to keep my vaginial opening from closing.

Correct.  The dilator will work but you must keep using it or it may close before you get a sexual partner.  As far as the bowel issue, my experience was painfull during a BM for a short time after but went away.  You may loose some sphincter controls.  Pelvic Physical Therapy helps that.  You'll be fine, don't worry.