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Potential cancer concern

swimthepaladinstrait
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Okay, I feel really embarrassed about this so I’m sorry in advance. I don’t even know if this is the right place to ask this.

I’m 18 and just yesterday morning I found a small, pea sized lump on the upper part of my inner labia. It’s hard and tender when touched. I’ve just been non stop crying because I’m so embarrassed and worried but also far too anxious and petrified to see a doctor. About a week ago a small, white-pimple type thing appeared under the clitoral hood too so I’ve just been extremely freaked out. (No, it’s not a smegma pearl.)

I know nobody here can diagnose me over a chat forum but if anyone could please give me just a little bit of peace of mind or maybe some suggestions for what else is going on. Google is telling me it’s a bartholin’s cyst but those are apparently only near the entrance of the vagina/the lower part.  I’m also not really the type of person to be comfy telling my parents things like this so I’m completely at a loss and extremely anxious and scared.

im really sorry again. Thank you to anyone who might see this and respond.

  • Hi swimthepaladinstrait and thank you for your post. 

     I am sorry to hear you have found a lump in your vagina that is concerning you.

    I'm afraid as nurses we are unable to diagnose you or tell you what the matter may be. Most lumps and bumps are harmless and the cause will be something other than a cancer but it is always best to get this sort of thing checked out by your GP just to be sure.

    Sometimes lumps in the vagina are caused by Bartholins cysts.  These are generally harmless and rarely cause problems; however, they can become infected, which may require treatment. It’s best to get checked out when you can.

    I understand it can be embarrassing to see a GP, but by the time doctors become general practitioners, they have encountered everything. They are not easily shocked. You can ask to see a female doctor.

    Do try and confide in your mum. It is completely normal to feel uncomfortable discussing personal matters, even with those who are close to us.

    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.

    Kind regards

    Tina

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