Hello Mitsoi and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear you are currently awaiting some further tests after some blood test results came back abnormal. This must be a worrying time for you but as your doctor has said there could be a number of reasons for this, not all being cancer.

A raised ca125 is usually linked to inflammation in the pelvic region this can be linked to ovarian cancer but other gynaecological conditions such as ovarian cysts, fibroids and so on can also cause this level to be raised. Likewise a raised ESR also detects inflammation that can also be linked to an array of different conditions, not all cancer.

We can't say how quickly you will have the ultrasound carried out but if something more serious like a cancer needs to be ruled out then a suspected cancer referral isn't unusual. This is when someone is referred under the quickest pathway where tests should be carried out fairly quickly, ideally within 2 weeks but with NHS delays this can sometimes be longer.

Until you have the ultrasound and find out more no one can say what may be going on. This is always unsettling but try not to let your mind run away with itself if you can. Most people put on the suspected cancer pathway won't go on to be diagnosed with cancer and remember ovarian cancer is more common in older women who have already been through the menopause.

When you speak with your doctor I think it would be good to ask which referral pathway you have been put on to get an understanding of how soon you will be seen. Also ask if there is any other tests they would like to run and what else may need to happen next.

Do let your doctor know what you are most concerned about but as I say until you have had more tests done they are unlikely to be able to tell you much more.

I hope you know more very soon and that everything turns out okay for you.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best to you

Naomi