Hello Amy

I'm sorry to hear that you've been told you have more cell changes. It's understandable that you're feeling concerned about what the next steps may be and what treatment may be needed. 

It's common for people to search Google for information when waiting on firm answers from clinicians but I'd encourage you to give the internet a wide berth until you have those answers. Unfortunately searching Google will often lead you down a rabbit hole that just increases anxieties. 

It can sometimes help to talk things through with someone and I wonder if you might find it helpful to give our team of nurses a call next week. I'm sure they will be happy to chat with you and offer some support and advice ahead of your appointment. If you'd like to speak to them they're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

I hope this helps. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi Amy - I had the same thing - about 14 years ago now as my oldest son was a baby and now he's a teenager! I was 27 at the time. I was very anxious like you - especially as my results letter came with a leaflet about cervical cancer! I had an appointment with a consultant at the hospital, I was examined and he decided to do something that I think was called a loop diathermy - they remove the affected area and some of the surrounding area. It's a very brief procedure, I went home immediately afterwards! I then had a follow up letter confirming that all of the affected area had been removed. I then had to have annual smears for the next 10 years which I found reassuring. It's frightening but it's very common - I know at least 4 women in my immediate acquaintance who have had the same thing. Hope it goes ok for you x

Hey! 
Thank you so much that's really reassured me. I rung the hospital today as this morning was the date of the meeting. They said I have to go in for a biopsy and will receive the invitation through post - I imagine after I have results of that they will tell me what's next in terms of treatment?

I'm an anxious person anyway - so this is just adding so much and I am really trying to remain calm and positive but I am struggling a lot!

I really hope my experience is like yours, I really appreciate you reaching out. Do you have 3 yearly smears now or still annually? 
 
Amy x

Hi Amy - I'm glad you feel a bit better! After my 10 years of normal smears I returned to a three year schedule, as after that time you are considered to need no additional monitoring. 

When I saw the consultant he explained that abnormal cells and changes are very common but also very easy to deal with medically in low risk outpatient procedures so they very much err on the side of caution. This made me feel that my case, although worrying to me, wasn't singled out as a particular risk, and again made me fee a bit better about it all!

hope it goes well for you x