Hello, 

I'm 39 years old. I was 21 when I was diagnosed with CIN3. I found out about it when I asked for a smear test because I was experiencing abdominal pains.  It was upsetting at the time and I was a bit shell-shocked so I understand how you feel. I hope my experience will re-assure you a bit.

After receiving a letter stating I had abnormal cells and severe dyskaryosis, I was invited in for a colposcopy where they painted a solution on the end of my cervix to locate the area causing trouble and drew a diagram etc and took a biopsy. I was later invited back for loop diathermy treatment which is also known as LEEP as far as I understand... the use of a hot wire to remove the infected slither of cervix. I opted for the general anaesthetic for the procedure. The prodecure was quick and I had no pain afterwards. In fact, my reaction to the general anaesthetic left me high as a kite afterwards, and did lighten my mood somewhat for the rest of the day. There was a tiny bit of spotting afterwards which was to be expected. I had a follow-up a short while later to check healing and they basically check that all the suspect area has been dealt with. About six months later I had another smear. For the first three years after the minor op, I had to go for an annual smear test. At one of the early follow-up appointments the nurse actually allowed me to see on camera how my cervix looked and it looked completely healthy which was a relief. Although smear tests are never fun, I found this amount of follow-up reassuring. I have had only clear smear tests since, apart from one which came back with mild changes and this rectified itself, as is quite often the case.   After the first three years of yearly smear tests, I was advised to book a smear test once every three years. Last time around I was told I could go to 5 year intervals as normal. 

I had a minor scare a few years ago. I feared the return of it, due to some bleeding between periods and after intercourse. I mentioned my concerns around my history if CIN 3 to the GP and after examination with a senior colleague,  it turned out I'd developed a polyp on the cervix, which was removed and tested to be benign. That was another simple process under local anaesthetic. I always assume the GP hasn't read the entire health history, so I do think it is sensible to clue them in when possibly relevant!  

The most important thing is that you have caught it now and they are going to treat it. The successful treatment of CIN2 is very high.  And they are going through these procedures to stop it in its tracks and prevent it developing to CIN3 and subsequently cancer. The treatment is essential and I thank my lucky stars I had the good sense to go get a smear when I did, just as you have done. Try not to worry and imagine the worst! Try to occupy your spare time with enjoyable activities where you can to take your mind off it and as far as treatment goes, take it one stage at a time. I also told my folks and took mum along to all of those initial appointments. Having a sympathetic and calm friend or family member in the same building with you is a real comfort. I know people do worry and others might bash the NHS but in all my dealings with them, the ones that really mattered, they have been brilliant. Good luck! xx