Why so fast?

I have just been diagnosed with 1B Cervical Cancer. I was reffered for investigation of an ovarian cyst three months ago after experiencing persistent bleeding post intercourse - every time! At the last minute on that visit it was decided I should undergo a colposcopy, which was scheduled for six weeks later. The results of the several samples taken showed CIN II and so I was booked in for a LEEP and laproscope to remove the cyst. I was so relieved, CIN II, not panic stations, and they were finally going to give me back normal intimacy. It's been four weeks since the procedure and last week I was called back for the results and advised that the LEEP removed tissue containing both CIN III and cancer. I am now waiting on the call this Wednesday to advise of the next course of action. I realise this could be so much worse and am maintaining a positive attitude - I have even had a day where it didn't cross my mind! But I must admit that the rapid transfomation scares the hell out of me!

On 10/19/2009 earthgirl wrote:

I have just been diagnosed with 1B Cervical Cancer. I was reffered for investigation of an ovarian cyst three months ago after experiencing persistent bleeding post intercourse - every time! At the last minute on that visit it was decided I should undergo a colposcopy, which was scheduled for six weeks later. The results of the several samples taken showed CIN II and so I was booked in for a LEEP and laproscope to remove the cyst. I was so relieved, CIN II, not panic stations, and they were finally going to give me back normal intimacy. It's been four weeks since the procedure and last week I was called back for the results and advised that the LEEP removed tissue containing both CIN III and cancer. I am now waiting on the call this Wednesday to advise of the next course of action. I realise this could be so much worse and am maintaining a positive attitude - I have even had a day where it didn't cross my mind! But I must admit that the rapid transfomation scares the hell out of me!

I'm so sorry for all you are going through.  I would assume that if they found cancer, they will want to do a hysterectomy.  At least, that is the standard of care in cervical cancer.  As to the change so fast from CIN II to CIN III and cancer...I'm wondering if the testing isn't all that accurate.  I've had the same questions with regards to my testing.  I had a normal PAP with positive HPV found 18 months ago. Then, on my next PAP, they found low grade cells CIN I.  So, I had the colposcopy and biopsy a few weeks later that found High grade cells...CIN II and III.  Yesterday, I had my LEEP completed and will have to wait a week for those results.  I too wondered how the first PAP was normal, then CIN I and now CIN II and III.  Makes me wonder if they won't tell me there is cancer after the LEEP.  I think with the PAP's that they could possibly have missed the abnormal area.  But, as far as the colposcopy/biopsy and the LEEP...those are taken from known areas of abnormality and checked by a pathologist under a microscope.  So, I don't know how the testing could be so inaccurate.  Or, is it really growing that fast?  Scientific research would prove that it doesn't grow THAT fast but, who knows.  I had a relative that had no previous family history or personal history of cancer and had yearly mamograms done.  One year she had a normal mamogram and the next year she was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer that eventually killed her after about a year.  I think these things happen as God has planned.  It may not make sense but, we have to trust that HE knows what he is doing.  I hate statistics but they do show that a high percentage of cervical cancers are caught early and taken care of before they get so invasive to cause death.  That's our only hope, I think.  And prayer, of course.  So, good luck and I will be praying for you.  Try to keep a positive attitude...I firmly believe that it helps your health in situations like these.

Thank you so much for your reply, I must admit that I came here as a last resort in the search for answers. As you point out, research does not support the idea of such a rapid transformation. Funny isn't it that there seems to be this desperate search for answers during times such as these. I will stop looking now, because I believe it is true that sometimes it is just God's plan, and will consider myself blessed because his plan also included the opportunity for me to have two beautiful girls before this next challenge presented itself. They are 10 and 2, and when I had the first I was 22, not fully prepared, and terrified but once I came to accept the new situation as my lot in life I could do anything.

The phone call came and yes, a hysterectomy is necessary, and as with all things of this nature the wheels suddenly turn much faster. I am now feeling relieved that I was persistent with my doctor about the post-coital bleeding and encourage everyone to know their body - it has saved my life. My hubby cried a great deal yesterday, he wanted just one more child (as did I), but I am just growing to understand how vital time is in these situations. I just keep telling him I am saved because it's early, and he is accepting of my word. I hope all goes well with your results, please stay positive and let me know how it goes.

I'm glad you are feeling a little better.  And it's very good that you have 2 healthy children already.  Whether your family is complete or not, it still hurts to know that the option is getting taken away from you.  I have 3 healthy children and my family is complete but, when I think about the possibility of having to get a hysterectomy, it still hurts.  I'm glad they are catching your early and I will pray for you and your family.  I hope you heal quick and God be with you!