Hi, after having slight spotting in early September (menopause happened 7-8 Yeats ago) I did an E-consult form for my GP surgery one evening mid September and got a call back the next day offering me a face to face appointment the following afternoon. At that appointment the GP did an examination, took swabs, and requested a full blood panel. She also put me on a 2 week hospital referral. Had blood test two days later. Two days after that I received a phone call offering me a scan appointment a few days later. A further appointment was booked to see the consultant at his hysteroscopy clinic, I made the decision to travel the 45 mins to my appointments alone, as I wanted to own my illness. At the first appointment (ultrasound and trans vaginal scan) it was noticed that my uterus lining was 8mm thick - more than it should have been post menopause and told me I’d need a hysteroscopy. The following week I went for the hysteroscopy, but despite the consultant’s best efforts and my own attempts to brave, it didn’t work and I was referred to have it done under GA. A couple of weeks later I had a pre-assessment, and then three weeks later I went in for 7.30am and had the hysteroscopy under GA as a day surgery patient. During the hysteroscopy a polyp was removed and a biopsy done, That was at the beginning of November.
I was phoned about 6 days ago with my results. All test results are discussed at a Friday morning meeting before patients are told. My results had come in the previous Friday afternoon and had therefore missed that meeting, and didn’t hear back till the following Friday. The result was that cancerous cells had been found and that it was grade 1. I was told that the next thing was fo “stage” my cancer and that I’d need an MRI of my pelvis and abdomen with contrast, plus a chest X-ray. Those happened yesterday. I did the 45 minute drive alone once again - I’m an independent person and thought I’d be braver alone. Had the MRI first, including having a cannula inserted for the dye and the Buscopan to be administered. I think the MRI took about 45 mins - I wasn’t looking forward to it, but was made comfortable and given an eye mask, and that helped a lot. Went to the radiology desk and requested my chest X ray and I was escorted to their Emergency X Ray Unit.
So now another wait. Waiting is the worst bit. I’ve been told by support nurses that I should get my results on Friday 3rd December. It’s going to be a long 9 days. I’ll obviously be interested in the result but am also aware that I won’t know for sure until I have surgery and the surgeon sees what’s actually there. My husband has been great. I’m being very careful about who else I tell as I don’t want to have to deal with other people’s reactions, good or bad. I understand a hysterectomy is likely so I’m trying to lose some weight. Apart from that I’m just carrying on as usual because right now that feels like the best way to beat it. Thanks for reading this far!
Hi MarmiteFan59 and welcome to our little corner of the Online Community. Here you'll find a lovely group of supportive ladies who have all been exactly where you are now. A possibility of cancer diagnosis brings all sorts of stress and fears and if anyone can hold your hand and reassure you we will. We're all at the start, in the middle or the end of what can only be described as a roller-coaster ride. The ride no-one wants to get on.
It’s always helpful to others if you write a little something (or a lot) about yourself and your journey to date. You can enter it into your profile (click on your username and select “Profile”) It’s helpful to other members with a similar diagnosis who can then hopefully answer your questions. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. You can amend or update it at any time. If you’re not sure what to write, just click on my username.
If you want to ask any of us any questions please come back and do so. There's always someone around and we can offer a shoulder to cry on, a hand to hold or listen to a rant, we’re here for you. We all agree the endless waiting for appointments, results is the pits!
It might also be a good idea to download this booklet Understanding Womb (Endometrial) Cancer. I found it invaluable on my journey.
Click on the link I’ve created to find out more information covering diagnosis and treatments for Womb cancer.
You might also find this link to what to take in my overnight bag useful for when you have surgery.
It’s always good to talk and the Macmillan Support Services provides lots of information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear. It's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. Have a look to see what is available by Clicking here .
There is also an Ask an Expert section, but you should allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
Sending you welcoming hugs, Barb xx
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
"Never lose hope. Storms make people stronger and never last forever” - Roy T Bennett
