Member Since:
13 October 2009
Posts: 1

HI.. 

I too read the article in the womens mag and it too lead me to think twice about my symptoms. So thank you for sharing your story..

I'm wondering if you ladies can help me... I've read that there's no early detection test for vulva cancer, as a smear doesn't pick it up.. I've read your symptoms and am wanting to know more..

I've had the itching you talk about on and off for years.  I've also had three bartalin gland cyst operations. Each time. as the cyst has grown in size, i've developed the itching and not only around my vulva, but especially around my clitoris.  I've been to my doctor and pressured him to refer me to a gynocologist, who felt i was too young to have cancer - i'm 32.  He did agree that the cyst need operating on.  I was operated on back in March 09 ( 7months ago ), while pregnant with my second child.  My second child is now two months old and the itching has come back.

My question is... How serious does the itching need to be before they'll do a biopsy.  The doctors have always seem to ignore my concerns, because the itching is in only one small place and isn't constant.  Am i being a 'hypocondriac' by being concerned now or should i just forget about it until symptoms become worse?  I read your stories and I know my symptom's aren't as bad as some. I don't have full-on psorasis, but do wonder why i have this itching that comes and goes..

I'm hoping you ladies will be able to help me as this isn't a common cancer and it seems the doctors don't know much about it.  I'm hoping your experience and knowledge will help.

Member Since:
13 February 2009
Posts: 27

Member Since:
19 May 2009
Posts: 43

Hi there

I was told I was being silly and stupid a year before my surgery which shows that Doctors are NOT GODS......  I even went to the ACUTE gynae unit at the hospital after referral from my specialist and they are the ones that told ME that I was silly and stupid.  DO not give up.  Go with your gut and get it checked, checked and RECHECKED.... DO make sure that it si RULED OUT medically - not just fobbed off.  Mine was diagnosed as a Bartholins Gland Cyst - and every website says that in women over 40 you have to rule out cancer.  THEREFORE there will be some women under 40 that this is an issue.  Mine is a very rare cancer - not just because it is in the vulva but the type. 

Raewyn is right  - if worried check it out.  Ask questions - as you are but find a Doctor that takes you seriously.  Do you have any family history?   I did read one website that said Cervical cancer in a mother can increase the chance of a daughter getting vulva cancer. 

Good luck and keep us informed.  What part of NZ are you in?  

Sally