gynae issues - not sure whether I am being over cautious

[cansu]

I have had a huge problem with a very sore and itchy vulva area for about a year. I was told by GP it was due to the menopause and given a cream that did nothing really. It became intolerable lately so I returned to be told that I probably had lichen sclerosis and was given dermovate. I would also get a referral to a gynaecologist to check it was Lichen S. The cream is definitely helping with the itching but I have now started bleeding. I haven't had a period for around 18 months. GP says not to worry this is still within the bounds of normal but she will check cervix in a month and we will monitor bleeding for a few months. Does this sound reasonable or should I be pushing to see gynaecologist earlier? Should also say am having lots of aches and pains in my back and side and am worrying a lot about whether I have cancer.

How old are you now?

What cream were you given? Was it Ovestin or Gynest perhaps?

1. Your GP is wrong. The protocol is any bleeding if you have not had a period for 12 months is a referral within 2 weeks to a gynae. This is for a scan of your womb.

2 Lichen sclerosis is potentially serious (I think it can turn into vulval cancer.) You should have a proper full diagnosis from a vulva specialist, not this kind of 'throw something at it and see what helps' approach.

You need to go back to your GP and insist on a referral within 2 weeks. It's actually shocking they don't know this- the rules around post menopausal bleeds are very clear.

Thank you so much. I am 46 but my sister also has had an early menopause. I will go back next week and see another GP. I am also considering a private referral.

At 46 there is slightly more leeway around bleeding- the NHS website says you will certainly be referred and soon but it may not be exactly in 2 weeks.

This is because with younger women there is sometimes a surge of ovarian activity and periods can begin again, but not usually at 46 or after 18 months.