Terrified I might have Cervical Cancer

I am 30 years old, and I am terrified I might have cervical cancer.. I have an appointment to go for a pap smear and check for cervical cancer cells, which I have been putting off for 5 years. I've always had problems around that area.. but i was r*ped when I was younger.. and so even the thought of having someone down there is so scary. But with all my symptoms I decided it was time to take action. It is currently July, and in this entire year, I have only been off my period for 42 days.. currently I'm on day 73 of bleeding i get cramps that are like period pains, but they arnt period pains, its in that area but feels more like mild contractions, it is quite painful, they come on lasting for around 10 mins then fade and come back in waves.. I have extreme pain during sex, I always get bloody discharge, and the bleeding never actually fully stops.. I can't use tampons because I can't get them in, it's like hitting a wall, and it's really painful. I get pain in my lower back between my hips, which I thought was from my sacroiliac joints (I have Elhers-Danlos Sydrome), I get pain in my legs, and shock sensations in my cervix alot. Over the years my urination habits have changed, sometimes I barely make it to the toilet, at night I need to pee almost every 30 minutes. I get tierd all the time and really fatigued, like I'm running on fumes. Ontop of all of this, my partner and I have been trying to have a baby, I've been trying to get pregnant for 10 years with no luck.. I'm really scared I may have cervical cancer.. 

  • Hello and welcome to our forum, GeekyLilKitten.

    I’m sorry to hear that you’re going through such a frightening and overwhelming time. It sounds like you’ve been coping with a lot of difficult symptoms for a long time, and on top of that, your past trauma makes this even harder to face.

    You’ve taken a really brave and important step by booking a Pap smear and deciding to get things checked out. While some of the symptoms you describe can be linked to many different conditions that aren’t cancer, only your doctors can give you the clarity and reassurance you need. They’ll be able to examine you, run tests if necessary, and explain what’s going on.

    If you’re worried about the exam because of your past experience, it’s absolutely okay to let the healthcare team know. Many people find it helpful to request a female practitioner or ask for things to be explained slowly and gently, with the option to pause at any time.

    Please know you’re not alone. Many of our members understand how scary waiting and worrying can feel, and I hope you’ll find comfort and support here while you prepare for your appointment.

    Wishing you strength and hoping you get some clear answers and relief soon.

    All the best,
    Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator