Lost,lonely,scared

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Lost,lonely,scared

by Youngsurvivor on Fri Jan 09, 2009 12:00 AM

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I was diagnosed with carcinoma in situ in March,2008.I received conization as part of treatment,after that my doctor advised me to see a gyn-onc, and I did, but he wanted to do a hysterectomy,and I didn't want that. I was not offered any other treatment but the hysterectomy.  They didn't explain to me why they felt that was my best option,they just wanted me to have it done very soon. I haven't received any other treatment since then, but I have scheduled an appt. to go to CTCA in February.  I would like to know if I'm doin the right thing by waiting.

RE: Lost,lonely,scared

by herenow on Sat Jan 10, 2009 12:00 AM

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What kind of information did both doctors tell you? Did you have positive margins, after the conization? Was it in the endocervical glands? Were you told it was actual cancer and if so, what stage it was at? What reasons did the GYN/ONC give you for wanting to do a hysterectomy? As you know, that is extreme, so either you were being rushed or there is information you should have had. Either way, it is a doctor's responsibility to educate you about all options, the reasons behind them, and the risks and benefit.

Please get copies of all of your lab reports so that you know exactly what has been happening. It doesn't sound like your doctors are being very clear with you, so please consider getting a new doctor.

There is something in between conization and hysterectomy. It is the trachelectomy. It removes the entire cervix but leaves the uterus for fertility purposes. With women of childbearing age who still want to be able to have children, this is an option. A GYN/ONC should know about this, so I'm surprised it wasn't discussed with you.

Are there any family members or friends you can talk to? It helps so much to be able to tell loved ones how frightened and upset we are, as well as to tell them what kind of support we need when going through something this serious. And can somebody come with you to the follow-up appointment, to hold your hand and take notes for you? Can you also check and see if there are any women's support groups in the area where you can talk and get support?

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