HPV-Cervical/vaginal CA

I am at very high risk for cervical cancer and have had a few procedures for cervical dysplasia, even extending beyond cervix. Scheduled for H 1/8/03, due to fibroids, anemia, pain, etc.
OK, no chance of cervical cancer after H, but Dr. admits sometimes the HPV virus (cervical cancer) goes to vagina. He will do pap smears of vaginal lining to monitor. Vaginal cancer is very rare, but should I be worried? (Haha! Like I'm not worried otherwise!) Should I leave cervix, just so it gets the cancer, not vagina? Am I crazy?

(((((Kathy)))))

You're not crazy - you're just worried and trying to be sure that you are doing the right thing. One thing that I would suggest is to have a second opinion from an oncologist/gynecologist who specializes in female cancers. That way, you will be sure that whatever procedure you choose, is the one that is best for you.

Did you know that we also have a cancer concerns forum ?https://www.hystersisters.com/vb2/for...p?s=&forumid=6

The members there are are facing some of the same worries as you, and can offer lots of information, comfort and 's

Please let us know what you decide.

's

Karen

Hi kdowda

I had abnormal paps and cervical biopsy (moderate dysplasia due to HPV) back in 1987. I rec'd two treatments of cryosurgery back then, and all my paps since were normal. I had LAVH/BSO this past May due to multiple fibroids and adenomyosis. My doctor definitely wanted to remove my cervix due to my past history of HPV/moderate dysplasia, and also strongly recommends that I continue to have vaginal pap smears every year.

Just wanted to share my experience with you. I have had no abnormal paps for 15 years now. And no!--- you are not crazy---just exploring all of your options. As KDeit mentioned, you might check out the Cancer Concerns Forum too and see what kind of responses you get there.

Very best wishes to you!

's

While everyone is different, let me share my personal experience. When I was 23, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer (at first they thought it was just dysplasia). I had laser surgery to take care of it. I am now 29, and was adamant about having a total hyster (DR just wanted to remove ovary/cyst, but got second from my onc/gyn). My path report showed an "abundance of aggressive cells showing abnormal architecture." I double checked with my onc/gyn and she said I would of been back in the same boat as when I was 23! I too have to go and get a pap (i think they should call it something else when they are scraping vaginal cells) yearly. My onc said vaginal cancer is VERY rare, but just keep up with your appointments and I'm sure you'll be fine. I personally feel it's very important to remove cervix when you've had problems such as we have had.

Just my personal opinion, always check with your DR!

Thanks to all of you! I hadn't thought about checking with oncologist. You sister princesses are great! Thanks for the support!

Most women who have their hyst because of dysplasia get frequent paps (technically called vault smears now) for a while after the surgery. My schedule was every 3 months for 2 yrs, then every 6 months for 3 years, then yearly. Even though vaginal cancer is considered very rare, I still get tense waiting for those results....but it's get easier as time passes.

Getting a second opinion from a GYN/Oncologist is a great idea!