Vaginal Atrophy and cancer fear

Recently I have been diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. 

I also have a caruncle at the base of my vagina which is a benign growth and of no concern to the hospital when I was examined recently 

However I have  become vey worried that I might have vaginal cancer.  

It seems so unlikely, as I have not had any bleeding or discharge, no pain or change in my bowel or urinary issues.  but I feel this constant urge to be checking myself and it is becoming almost an obsession. !! 

I am using a cream twice a week for treatment, but each time I do I think something feels different.  It is actually becoming very upsetting.  

I have read that vaginal cancer is rare, but that is not helping,  sometimes it feels perfectly normal and other times I am sure I am feeling or imagining something is not quite right. 

Please can you provide any help or reassurance ? 

thank you 

  • Hi Skygirl and thank you for your post.

    I’m very sorry you are worried about vaginal cancer. I can appreciate how upsetting this might be for you.

    Vaginal atrophy is common, especially after the menopause. It can make the skin thin, dry and sensitive. This means it can feel different at different times, even from day to day. Using cream can also make you notice changes more, because you are feeling the area often.

    It is reassuring that you have been checked at the hospital, and they only found a caruncle that they said was harmless.

    It is also reassuring that you do not have any symptoms related to vaginal cancer.

    If this worry is affecting your day-to-day life, it is important to talk to someone about it. Your GP, or practice nurse may be able to listen to your fears and explain things again.

    Anxiety UK and Every Mind Matters are  websites with tips and advice on how to manage anxiety which you may find helpful.

    I hope you find this information helpful.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support

    It might help to talk things through with one of our nurses on the helpline. You can call for free on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

    Kind regards,

    Tina