Worried about cervical cancer but don't know how to ask GP

Hi, I hope this is the right place to post. I've been having a lot of menstrual problems and pain for the past few months . I've been really worrying about cervical cancer recently but I'm only 20 and I'm worried they won't take me seriously if I bring it up. I know it's uncommon in my age but it's been months of worrying and I'm scared that if I keep putting it off and it is something serious that it'll progress. 

My symptoms (sorry if tmi) :

Prolonged periods, alot different to my usual cycle (now lasting months) and stop-starting day to day. 

Pelvic/lower abdominal pain 

Back pain 

Exhaustion all of the time

Bleeding after sex - started as a small amount of spotting but now I bleed for 24-48hr and it's like a light period. I've also been bleeding after orgasm without any penetration so I don't think it's caused by a cut or anything like that. 

Bleeding between periods

Increase in discharge, something with small amounts of blood

 

In terms of investigations, I've had blood tests to check my hormone levels but nothing unusual. I had a high white blood cell count. I had an ultrasound that saw cysts like PCOS (but no hormonal issues) and thickening of my lining but the doctor said it wasn't anything to worry about. I had a chlamydia swab and a high vaginal swab but nothing came back. They also had a quick glance at my cervix and didn't see anything unusual. I also had a course of antibiotics incase I had PID but no changes.

 

It's been about 2 months since my last investigation and there hasn't been any improvement. The doctor wants me to go on birth control but I'm not willing to until they figure out what's causing the bleeding and the pain. I'm afraid they'll just blame the birth control for any issues I have if it continued. I feel like after the other investigations that have been done, it wouldn't be unreasonable to mention my concerns but I really don't know how to. Any advice would be really appreciated

 

Thanks 

  • Hi Lobp29,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm sorry to hear of the issues you're experiencing. it's good to hear that you've had things checked out but I appreciate you don't seem to have any complete answers or solutions as yet which I'm sure must be a little frustrating.

    If there has been no improvement and no definite next steps or information from your GP, the only thing to really do is go back to them to discuss it and explain your thoughts and that you really need some answers to be able to move forward. One other option if you're having any difficulties with your GP is to ask for a second opinion.

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our nurses, who may be able to offer further advice or suggestions for approaching things with the GP, you can reach them on 0808 800 4040 - Monday-Friday, 9-5.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator