Cervical cancer

Hi everyone.

I've been irresponsible and stupid, leaving my smear test 10 years. I thought it was only around 5 so I was shocked when the nurse told me I'd missed 2- almost 3- cycles. Crazy how the years run away with you and although I'm not the only one, I feel I'm now paying the price for being so careless with my health.

My smear test results have came back with HPV present- which I expected as I've had these cells before, but my letter says that further testing reported 'high grade dyskarosis'.

I used to smoke, although I haven't for around 3 years now. I don't really have a colour to my discharge but it's watery and it has started to smell when it never used to. I'm having a shower 2-3 times a day just to feel clean.

I've had lower back ache for around 12-18 months but put it down to the mattress and recently got a new one. As I had sciatica after my first child I've always suffered with it on and off so it could just be that. But  I've seen that it can be a symptom of more advanced cervical cancer and so I am obviously worried sick. Not always but occasionally I have a stabbing pain in my lower abdomen, around where I believe my right ovary would be.

Could anyone tell me if they had any of these symptoms or can I please hear of anyone's experience who also had high grade dyskaryosis? I know this does not mean for certain that it has developed into cancer but with how long I went without a smear test and the symptoms I have I'm preparing myself for the worst.

I turn 36 next week (on the day of my colposcopy- typical!), I'm a mother of 2 boys and I'm terrified, not for myself but obviously for them.

Sorry for rambling on, but it has felt good to let it out.

 

  • Hello AmieL and welcome to  our forum! 

    You're definitely not rambling and how unfortunate that your birthday next week happens to be on the day of your colposcopy. It is indeed a shame that you didn't attend your smear tests for so many years but try not to dwell on this now - the important thing is that you are being looked after well and that you get your colposcopy soon. So try not to anticipate the worst as so many ladies here have had high grade dyskaryosis and I hope they will be along shortly to reassure you and share their experiences with you. There is information on our website on this page on treatment for abnormal cervical cells which I hope you will find helpful. You can also read more about what to expect from the colposcopy here 

    It is normal to feel worried about your symptoms and definitely mention your back pain and your other symptoms to your doctor if you haven't done so already but try not to anticipate what it might all mean. It won't be long now until you get some answers and until you get these abnormal cells sorted.

    I hope it all goes well for you and that despite all this you manage to have a great birthday next week. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • I too have high grade dyskaryosis, lower back and tailbone pain for the last 12 months and occasional abdominal stabbing pain. No inbetween bleeding but heavy periods, although they have been heavier since my last child 7 years ago. 
    Got my colonoscopy this week.

    how did yours go?  
     

    I also have an mri booked for my back as I have been doctors several times over the last 12 months about it.