Hi,

In 1988 at age 30, I had a colposcopy in response to dysplasia of the cervix.  I was clear in the years afterward.  Fast forward to 2024.

I’m 67, and in April 2024 had a LLETZ in response to a finding of high risk HPV for second year running.  CIN3+ including margins.  

I waited six weeks for LLETZ results then finally called Dr Gynae who acted surprised I hadn’t had the report from my GP (she actually refused to read it to me over the phone and referred me back to the Gynae).  That of course didn’t help the nerves.

To cut a long story short, Dr Gynae is insisting I wait 6 months for a ‘test of cure’ before he takes further action.

 My question is, at my age, with a strong close family history of gynae CA (mother, aunt, sister) why wouldn’t they just do a hysterectomy?

The push back I’ve had feels like ageism.  Gynae said:

1.  At your age, something else will kill you before this does - he insisted cervical CA caused by HPV is slow growing.  By the way, I have no other health issues.  I think the real issue is the cost to the healthcare system.

2.  He says Family history of CA means nothing.  Refused genetic testing.

3.  He says…If you have a hysterectomy, you will feel less feminine and have to go through menopause.  I had menopause at age 52, and have no issues about feeling feminine!  This Gynae is a complete dinosaur.  He just keeps saying, everything will be fine.

I called the Histologist who did the testing (previously acquainted from work) and she said “B*** hell, woman, just get the Hysto done privately, asap”.  

Any thoughts?  This is keeping me awake at night.