Hysterectomy

Hi Chista, Sorry you're going through this. Unfortunately, scans and other imaging don't offer the accuracy that surgery and subsequent biopsies do. Neither does the CA125 test, though there are parameters for what's normal.  I'm hoping that another responds about this test--I really have forgotten.  You can always do the research into this test yourself on the web, or ask your doctor.  

I know this is a frightening time for you.  Hope it all turns out well.  xxx

Hi there Christa,

So sorry this is happening to you.

I was diagnosed with Uterine cancer almost 4 years ago now, one of the tests you haven't mentioned that I had done to confirm diagnosis was a Hysteroscopy  where they take a small amount of tissue from inside the uterus, this was done after the trans-vaginal ultrasound when it was discovered my uterine wall was thickened, have you been told where they suspect the cancer might be? I actually don't remember any blood tests.................they went right into the 'business' end of things.

Of course you will feel nervous, phone your GP ask as many questions as you need to ask why they think it might be cancer, I think I already suspected it myself before I even first went to see my GP so it didn't come as a shock but believe me I still asked lots of questions.

Take care, we are here for you to see you through this.

Phoebe xx

I was diagnosed with endometrial cancer via a dialation & cuterage, not expected as they sent me home the following day, a couple of days later got a letter from the hospital asking to see me urgently, UH OH, had seen one of those letters previously when I had breast cancer. 

I had had a massive bleed, 3 units of blood needed to replace, I woke up in the morning soaking wet, and thought why have I wet myself, but wrong smell for urine, I nearly passed out as did my husband when we realised what had happened, he took me to the local hospital, and it was not until a nurse saw me sitting in the ER reception as I had been told to do, with blue nose and lips that I was suddenly thrown on a trolley and seen to very quickly, told I had a five month pregnancy in their, not possible I replied, husband had snip years previous, I don't think I was thinking very clearly or would have demanded better treatment from staff at reception.

10 days later had complete pelvic clearance, ovaries, tubes, and uterus, incl a couple of lymph glands to check they were clear.

Reassuring to be told by senior consultant that endometrial cancer is VERY SLOW GROWING, and is really only a danger to older ladies who have ignored unexpected bleeding for a long time, post change of life, I was 51, and still having nightmare periods every month, for most of the month.

Interesting I still remember being told if you are a heavier lady you are more at risk,  but it is known the incidence is higher in overweight ladies.

Only problems I had immedaitly post surgery, is the change of life surgery induced, what a shock to the system that was, sweating like a waterfall, that did not let up day or night, became dehydrated as I could not drink enough to keep up with loss which shocked the staff of hospital, put me on drips, which would not stay open because of dehydration, apparently rare reaction, put me on huge amount of hormone replacement, which I was not happy with but nothing else worked, sweating stopped, slowly stepped down off hormone replacement like a drug addict just a small change every couple of months, over about 18 months was able to stop taking hormones.  

no side effects other than recovery from surgery, no cancer could be found in uterine wall, which has been a relief, lymph glands were clear, so no chemotherapy, and now I am over 10 years on, a very happy girl.

interesting looking back, mum had the same surgery at 51, and my younger sister also had a endometrial issue at 51, so does this run in our family, have tipped off my daughter, and sister has tipped off her daughter as well, to watch themselves as they get older.

 

Hi there - would luv to know how your getting. My ca125 levels where 100 and now due full abdominal radical surgery on 16/8. Consultant say I do t have het afterwards but very dollars case to yours. Good luck

Hi I am having a 10cm cyst on my right ovary and my CA came back 62. What is yours if I may ask? The doc thinks its just endometriosis. I am hoping the same. If cancer is suspected CA should be a few hundreds. I am hopeful and positive. You'll be in my prayers.

Hope everything went well for you.  It's a big adjustment, physically and emotionally.  My CA-125 was only 9, very low.  This test is sometimes useful for endometrial cancer that has spread.  My cancer biopsy was not confirmed as cancer and possibly just a benign lesion.  I was frightened into consenting.  This hysterectomy/castration is my greatest regret, and I think the medical profession does way too many for profit.  I recommend www.hersfoundation.org/anatomy for knowledge in helping other women be aware of results from surgery and giving informed consent.