Vulva cancer

Hi, I was diagnosed with vulva cancer stage 1 last year it was a very painful surgery, and I thought that was the end of it but again this year I went for a checkup and had vin3 removed also polyps removed from my uterus. After 8 weeks of waiting I was told I still have VIN3 and they will keep a close eye to see . This has been so difficult I have had to take so much time of work with no financial help I’m in pain where I’ve had the two surgeries I can’t wear normal underwear my periods are so painful I’m now having to take medication prolonged release tablets as I can’t hold myself to use the toilet I’m not intimate with my husband as it’s to painful I’ve since returned to a demanding job where I have to stand most of the day with very little empathy from work . I just feel I have very little information or after care , it feels like oh well we cut it away so get on with it . Im not one for sharing but I really don’t understand why there is so little information and aftercare I can’t just take time of work because I will lose my job. 

  • A very warm welcome to Cancer Chat Joee, although I'm really sorry to hear how difficult life has been for you since you've had these two surgeries. 

    I hope this section of our website about living with vulval cancer, including life after treatment, will offer some help and guidance on aftercare but please do give our team of cancer nurses a call for further information and advice. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m and will do all that they can to support you at this time.

    I'm sorry to hear your work has not been very supportive during your diagnosis and transition back to work. I hope this information I've found will help you understand your employment rights, as well as the reasonable adjustments that could be made for your job or at your workplace. 

    I'm not sure from your post if you have applied for any financial support or benefits since you were diagnosed, but if not, do be sure to have a look at what you may be able to claim on our website.

    I hope the links I've provided are useful and that you hear back soon from some of our members who have been in a similarly difficult position after finishing their cancer treatment.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator