EndoCa: PAP smear after endometrial ca?

More uncomfortable doesn't sound good but I appreciate the feedback. Thank you!!

I, too, have had a few vaginal vault smears since my TAH/BSO for uterine cancer 17 months ago. I saw a new gyno last month who told me the scar tissue was making it difficult to get a good smear. So I started using a dilator a few weeks ago and think that will make a big difference for my appointment in early Feb. Yes, I too noticed it took a little longer and was a little painful, but it only lasted 20 seconds. This time, I'll take two Aleve before I go and think I'll be just fine.

I find them uncomfortable but not painful. Its the looking all around that seems to take a bit but I don't mind since I'd rather they be thorough. But then I've never found pelvic exams very bothersome and I'm good at relaxing as they check things out, which is a good skill for every 3 month exams. Really needing surgery was just so stressful, the followups have been very easy in comparison.

I very much agree with the above - the fact that they take their time is somewhat reassuring, and while it's not great, it's not even on the same scale as the worry, concern and discomfort of all the diagnosis & treatment phase.

You'll be fine. I get pretty tense waiting for test results now (mammograms, etc) because I got sucker punched last year, but still I try to put it in perspective.

Thank you all so much for your thoughtful replies. I really appreciate it.

Maricella -

I do not find my vaginal vault smears to be any more uncomfortable or longer than a cervical pap smear but that may be because of the type of cancer that I have.



G.

what are they looking for...? i had endometrial cancer.. back in a few weeks for a "pap".. vaginal cancer? i dont have much more to take out?... i m worried?

Rat212, my understanding is that the endometrial cancer can spread to the vagina. So technically, it would still be endometrial cancer even though it would be affecting the vagina. I'm not sure if surgery would be the first or only treatment option. I think there are a lot of variables.