Freaking About my Bum

I was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2005, with radical hyst as treatment. I just had my 2nd CT scan and go for that follow-up in a few weeks.

On my last pap, I also requested an HPV test. That came back negative. However, can I still have the HPV virus, just that it didn't come back on the sample b/c I no longer have a cervix and the remaining tissue that is tested is "clean"?

Also...how do I address the issue of anal paps (?) with my Dr? He (or the nurses) usually examine digitally, but that would only really check for bigger growths/tumors, correct? Would pre-cancer or cancer in the anus or rectum show up in my CT scan?

I have had anal intercourse and sometimes when I am cleaning well in the area I freak out that I'm feeling tiny bumps or something slightly inside. I am really embarrassed to have to bring it up but do not want to be going into my 3rd year cancer free only to have another area of cancer years from now.

Hi - I assumed that when the doctor performs the digital exam, it's to make sure the cervical cancer didn't spread there. However, I suppose HPV could infect any exposed area. Here's a link that addresses the anal cancer/HPV connection from the Ntl Cancer Institute. I have the same concerns about oral cancer, so I understand where you're coming from.

Take care -

I think this is something that you really do need to discuss with your doctor.
I know when I've had digital rectal exams, the doc is checking to see if there are any rough or bumpy spots...I am sure anything abnormal would be felt. Anything abnormal should also show up in your ct scan.

Your doc will have the best answers, and I'm glad that you will be seeing him soon. Keeping up with your follow up care if very important!

Let us know how your follow up appointment goes, and try not to worry between now and then.

xoxo
k9

Thanks! Last year when I had my CT, I'd worked myself into thinking I had a lump in my breast. He did an ultrasound to ease my mind more than anything. I guess since my initial diagnosis came out of nowhere, I just don't want to get *too* comfortable in being "cancer-free," and have to be devestated again.

hello heartfelt. great to hear that things are going well for you - and yes, you certainly want to keep it that way. as difficult as it may be for you, i think you need to be open with your doctor and express your concerns. there are doctors that do anal pap smears for gay men, so i'm sure they can do it for women too!

and, it's great that your hpv test is negative. this means that you don't have an active hpv infection. the virus is in your body still; it doesn't get removed with surgery or any other treatment. medical science doesn't yet know what makes the virus dormant or become reactivated. that's why you need to keep up with the paps, and, why it may be a good idea to get an anal pap, too, if you're concerned.

best wishes for continued good health.

Heartfelt,
If you are more than 2 years out from treatment chance of a recurrence is VERY low, like less than 5%, assuming your stage was 1b2 or lower.

Happy New Year!
Janie