HRT and endometrial biopsy

Hi all

Im trying very hard to keep things in perspective but trauma related to medical treatments when I had my children has left me with health anxiety and I do struggle with all things medical.

im on continuous HRT and have been for over a year. I'm 53 and not sure when my last period was as I've been in HRT of one sort or another since 2015.  I missed a couple of tablets at Christmas and throughout January I had some daily spotting and occasional cramping. No flow, no need for sanitary protection, just a daily dark smear. It eventually stopped but I thought should get it checked and rang Dr. I had a telephone appointment and was placed on 2WW cancer pathway which really frightened me but understood it's to rule the worst out. I went for the appointment at the local hospital yesterday after three weeks and saw the gynae. I thought I'd be having an internal scan but the sonographer hadn't turned up so he did a biopsy instead and said I'd have to come back for the scan, and maybe a hysteroscooy. I found the biopsy doable but painful and I wasn't emotionally prepared if that makes sense but they were both extremely kind.

im just frightened. So very frightened. I haven't slept well for weeks and have intrusive thoughts and panic. I have a challenging job and am usually so mature and professional but I'm ashamed how badly I'm handling this fear and panic. My husband tries but wasn't with me when I was traumatised in childbirth and really doesnt understand the black fear. He says we should deal in facts and that stats etc are in my favour. He understand all about stats and risks - it's lost on me. Any calming advice would be gratefully received. Thanks for reading 

  • Hello Greenvelvet

    I'm so sorry to hear that you're dealing with some health concerns at the moment. It's understandable that you would be feeling anxious especially given your previous medical-related traumas. 

    I'm glad to hear that the hospital team was kind during your appointment. Were they aware of your concerns and previous experiences? If not then do let them know at your next appointment so that they can continue to offer you the appropriate support. If you don't feel able to tell them, then you can always put things in writing. 

    In the meantime, I'd suggest giving your GP a call. Let them know that you're feeling anxious and struggling with intrusive thoughts. Please don't feel ashamed by the way you feel at the moment. Obviously, you have been through very difficult experiences in the past and the important thing now is that you're able to get the support you need to help you manage things in the best way you can. 

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses you're most welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm. I'm sure they will offer any advice and support that they can. 

    Keep in touch Greenvelvet. Let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • It's so kind of you to get in touch thank you. I'm feeling a bit calmer. Scan is next Monday and the Dr did say he thought I would be fine. This panic has made me reassess the trauma I've experienced, in terms of seeking some mental health support. I never did before as back then, mental health wasn't really talked about. It's very likely that at some point, even if this scare is ultimately resolved, I or someone close will become ill and I need to be able to have coping strategies in place 

    thank you so much x

  • I just thought I'd feedback that after the longest five weeks of my life, I've had normal results. I don't have cancer. The GP was very sorry I'd been left in the dark but one can't fault the NHS. I wanted to thank you for your support and to wish everyone all the very best x

  • That's so good to hear Greenvelvet.

    We're so pleased for you and I'm sure it must have been such a relief to receive this news after waiting so long.

    We're so glad we could help you during this challenging time and wish you all the best for the future.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator