Is it possible to develop cervical cancer 1 year after a 'normal' smear result?

[WorriedMe]

I think it is highly unlikely I have it, as no bleeding, but have most of the other symptoms. Nurse has tested for STi which I don't beleive I have as I am in a long term relationship with one partner only, over 13 years, and so has he (absolutely no reason to doubt that) although she did say an sti can lay dormant for years (but not that long surely?). She has also tested for bacterial infections.

She has said that the top of my vagina/entrance to cervix is red and, bit inflamed and bit sore looking but would not indicate what she thought it could be.

Anyway my last smear came back 'normal' 1 yr ago. Am I stressing over nothing.

And, would a gp take a blood test and check for markers without telling/telling me they were testing for something else? (repeat prolactin level check)

I am just panicking a little i guess, as my aunt (not blood related) died of this years ago and the cancer became advanced very quickly after diagnosis, I have heard it is a very aggressive cancer.

[WorriedMe]

anyone want to reassure me with ?

[fanjobiscuits]

. i don't know much about the subject, but I do know when I had a 'dodgy' smear they asked me to come back for yearly smears vs 3 years, which would be the same timeline as your last one. You are seeing a doc to get it checked so doing all the right things.

[midori1999]

It's very unlikely. Cervical cancer takes years to develop, at least 5, usually more like 10, which is why smears are 3 years apart unless you've already had a problem.

I also doubt a GP would take bloods and test them for things without your permission, I'm pretty sure they're not allowed to do this.

[WorriedMe]

I am guessing then that if the doc was concerned, they would have said so/tested for it, they said they were doing triple swab test and prolactin blood test. They would have told me if anything else was being tested for right? which means they don't think it is? they checked my smear results and were happy with those.

[WorriedMe]

midori thats what I was thinking/hoping. In that case, the doc is not concerned as this was not mentioned. And, if I am thinking logically and not panicking for no reason, my gp is normally quite open with me, so would probably tell me if there were concerns, and has not done so.



thank you!

[TheCalmingManatee]

It could be a cervical erosion maybe? Its not cancer.

[WorriedMe]

what is a cervical erosion?

thanks for reassuring me.

[BelaLug0si]

It is possible but a rare occurrence.
It's understandable you're worried given your family background however as fanjobiscuits says the GP and nurse are getting your symptoms investigated which is the main thing. If you're really concerned then ask to see your GP to discuss the results. You could request a colposcopy or gynae referral for peace of mind if there's no answer from the tests they've already done.

[tribpot]

It has happened to a friend of mine - she is now fine, I should say, but had to have quite a lot of treatment.

However, this is Bela's field of expertise, and I would agree it is rare. Definitely follow up until you are happy you understand what tests have been conducted and ruled out.

Very sorry to hear about your aunt.

[BelaLug0si]

Lots of cross posting there!
A cervical erosion or ectropion/ectropian is a normal physiological process. It's part of the cervix where the endocervical (birth) canal meets the outer skin (epithelium) of cervix. This area is quite thin, has lots of blood vessels close to the surface and is prone to inflammation, infection and bleeding. A source of much trouble for many women!
Tribpot - I agree with you, OP keep on with the GP until you're satisfied with the investigations, and (hopefully) your symptoms are sorted. My personal opinion is that you should always treat symptoms seriously and get them investigated whether you've had a recent clear smear or not.

Jo's trust might be worth checking out, its aimed at women and their families with cancer and pre-cancerous changes but the forum is very welcoming and supportive to all women worried about cervix related matters. It's here

[WorriedMe]

I should probably avoid going swimming for the time being until I know what it is right?

[BelaLug0si]

Sorry I don't know, depends how comfortable you feel? Did the practice nurse tell you to avoid anything?