TexasLdy72
12-17-2002, 12:42 AM
:wave: everyone!
I have had two bad paps (August & November), a bad colposcopy with biopsy (last week) and am scheduled for a LEEP procedure on December 30th for cervical intraepitheliel neoplasia III/Carcinoma-in-situ (CIN III/CIS). The colpo wasn't so bad and I had no pain meds. I hear of some being out for the colpo, but it was not bad, really. My gyn said they would give me something in a IV, and cervical lidocaine injections for the LEEP :eek: ,but I'm just not really sure what to expect from the procedure itself, even though I've read everything on the Net. Just wanting to talk to someone else concerning the "reality" of it. It's one thing to read about it out of a journal and quite another for someone to tell you from their own experience. Anyone who's been through this, or if any of y'all have any questions please email me ([removed].com)
Thanks so much!
TexasLdy :round:
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[This message has been edited by moderator2 (edited 02-19-2003).]
I have had two bad paps (August & November), a bad colposcopy with biopsy (last week) and am scheduled for a LEEP procedure on December 30th for cervical intraepitheliel neoplasia III/Carcinoma-in-situ (CIN III/CIS). The colpo wasn't so bad and I had no pain meds. I hear of some being out for the colpo, but it was not bad, really. My gyn said they would give me something in a IV, and cervical lidocaine injections for the LEEP :eek: ,but I'm just not really sure what to expect from the procedure itself, even though I've read everything on the Net. Just wanting to talk to someone else concerning the "reality" of it. It's one thing to read about it out of a journal and quite another for someone to tell you from their own experience. Anyone who's been through this, or if any of y'all have any questions please email me ([removed].com)
Thanks so much!
TexasLdy :round:
[Please read and follow the board posting guidelines
as you agreed to do when you registered for membership.
Do not post your email address on the message board. Thank you!]
[This message has been edited by moderator2 (edited 02-19-2003).]
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DDiva
12-21-2002, 05:21 PM
I am going through the exact same thing! I was diagnosed last week with dysp, both 1&2, after a colposcopy w/ a biopsy. Now they want me to have a LEEP cone or cryotherapy, although this doctor who diagnosed me prefers the LEEP cone. He does it with a heated wire under general anesthesia. I found out on the internet that sometimes its done under local and/or with a laser, although I wasn't presented with that option. I also posted a note about finding another doctor. I live in NE NJ.
This is all new to me too, but if you want to email someone who can relate, or need info, or have anything to share, please feel free to email me @ [removed].com
In the meantime, hang in there & have a happy holliday!
[Please read and follow the board posting guidelines
as you agreed to do when you registered for membership.
Do not post your email address on the message board. Thank you!]
[This message has been edited by moderator2 (edited 02-19-2003).]
This is all new to me too, but if you want to email someone who can relate, or need info, or have anything to share, please feel free to email me @ [removed].com
In the meantime, hang in there & have a happy holliday!
[Please read and follow the board posting guidelines
as you agreed to do when you registered for membership.
Do not post your email address on the message board. Thank you!]
[This message has been edited by moderator2 (edited 02-19-2003).]
monkey5
01-26-2003, 09:58 PM
I just found out i have to a have Leep procedure myself, anyone who can make me feel relaxed about this would be helpful, i have heard it's not so bad, but i know that is easy to say if your not going through it at the time.
Melissa
Melissa
TexasLdy72
01-26-2003, 10:15 PM
Hi Melissa~
I know you are nervous and I understand that. I had my LEEP on December 30, 2002, and am doing well. I had a discharge for about three weeks.
Ask your GYN if you can be put into a "twilight sleep". This is what happened to me, and I wouldn't do it any other way! The downside is that it has to be performed in the operating room, but you FEEL NO PAIN. It is considered a Day Surgury so you get to go home afterward. I did not feel any pain during the precedure, but felt uncomfortable and "hot" on my cervix afterward and was given 2mg of Morphine in my IV in the recovery room.
Like I said, I wouldn't do it any other way but the twilight sleep way. There are those who will say they had it done in the office with just lidocaine and epinepherine cervical injections and had no problem, but I wanted to be completely comfortable and relaxed, which the twilight sleep provided...
Hope this helps you...email me anytime..
Paula
I know you are nervous and I understand that. I had my LEEP on December 30, 2002, and am doing well. I had a discharge for about three weeks.
Ask your GYN if you can be put into a "twilight sleep". This is what happened to me, and I wouldn't do it any other way! The downside is that it has to be performed in the operating room, but you FEEL NO PAIN. It is considered a Day Surgury so you get to go home afterward. I did not feel any pain during the precedure, but felt uncomfortable and "hot" on my cervix afterward and was given 2mg of Morphine in my IV in the recovery room.
Like I said, I wouldn't do it any other way but the twilight sleep way. There are those who will say they had it done in the office with just lidocaine and epinepherine cervical injections and had no problem, but I wanted to be completely comfortable and relaxed, which the twilight sleep provided...
Hope this helps you...email me anytime..
Paula
monkey5
01-31-2003, 03:07 PM
Paula, thank you, igo to the dr. on Tuesday so i will know more about everything with the surgery.
Melissa
Melissa
winged phantom
01-31-2003, 04:28 PM
Hey Melissa! Good luck with the procedure! :angel:
wr
wr
Floridiangirl
02-04-2003, 12:03 AM
The following is not for the faint of heart. To answer the first few people's questions about the experience of a LEEP, I went through one of those about 4 years ago now. I had a lower grade dysplasia, and I don't know if it was because of this fact or what, but I had ZERO options for pain management for the proceedure. I had it done in the office, with the wire method (sorry if I forget the right terminology, it's been a while and I have tried to put this out of my head). I did take valium before the proceedure because I am a very tense person to begin with. I have to say that if you do have options, I would select one appropriately because my experience was HORRID. What I recall more about the proceedure than anything was the surprising and scary NOISE and SMELL. Sorry to be gross about this, but they are basically burning your flesh, so you can imagine, the odor is bad and there is even smoke (this sounds like it out of the 18th century, I know). The nurse's job is to hold a vacuum-like tube inside of you to suck-out the removed material. This is an extremely unpleasant feeling. With all this stuff going on, I don't even remember feeling pain, to be honest. I was in tears by the end of the proceedure, I am lucky that it lasted only about 5 or so minutes.
The other thing I want to share with you all is that my stupid doctor didn't bother to tell me that after the proceedure, you should NOT EXERCISE for 6 weeks. I immediately started walking (for exercise). This made me bleed very badly over the first couple of weeks and probably hindered my recovery.
Good luck everyone and have a better experience than I,
Floridiangirl
The other thing I want to share with you all is that my stupid doctor didn't bother to tell me that after the proceedure, you should NOT EXERCISE for 6 weeks. I immediately started walking (for exercise). This made me bleed very badly over the first couple of weeks and probably hindered my recovery.
Good luck everyone and have a better experience than I,
Floridiangirl
marybethn
02-04-2003, 01:22 PM
I've already had one colposcopy/biopsy and cryotherapy. I got worse instead of better. I go for another biopsy Friday and then on to a LEEP. I'd like to know more about the recovery from a LEEP. When will I feel like getting off the couch. I want the truth. When will I want to be out and about? How long? How bad is the cramping the day or two after? Details please!
Thanks
mt
Thanks
mt
Floridiangirl
02-05-2003, 11:53 AM
to answer marybeth's question.....
I recall that after my LEEP, I was in bed/on the couch for about a day. I did feel very cramped....I took a lot of ibuprophen and used a heating pad. It wasn't so horrible that I couldn't stand it or anything, but it was very uncomfortable. The next day, I felt relatively good and I went to work. But like I wrote in my previous reply, it is very important that you do the minimal possible moving around for the first week or so, and for 6 weeks, no exercise or sex (like you'd want to by that point anyway, my sex drive was wiped out for a couple of months or more after my LEEP). Try to get someone else to do chores for you, shopping, etc. for that first week or 2. You can go to work provided you don't have an active job, but that should be about it.
Also, like you, I had several biopsies, a cryotherapy....and things got worse. I was really scared when I had the LEEP, thinking this was just going to get worse and worse. However, my doctor told me that in most cases, the LEEP takes care of the problem. I was one of those people, I have had completely normal paps ever since then (with the exception of the first one following the LEEP, which was sort-of inconclusive), that was 4 years ago. Also, as you get older, your body becomes more capable of fighting-off the virus that causes this (mainly HPV) so you have that working for you. Hang in there!
Let me know if I can help you any more.....incidentally, there is a newsletter for people like you who have questions regarding this condition, proceedures, etc. I believe it is called "HPV News". Look for it on the web to register (it is a hard copy mailed to you).
I recall that after my LEEP, I was in bed/on the couch for about a day. I did feel very cramped....I took a lot of ibuprophen and used a heating pad. It wasn't so horrible that I couldn't stand it or anything, but it was very uncomfortable. The next day, I felt relatively good and I went to work. But like I wrote in my previous reply, it is very important that you do the minimal possible moving around for the first week or so, and for 6 weeks, no exercise or sex (like you'd want to by that point anyway, my sex drive was wiped out for a couple of months or more after my LEEP). Try to get someone else to do chores for you, shopping, etc. for that first week or 2. You can go to work provided you don't have an active job, but that should be about it.
Also, like you, I had several biopsies, a cryotherapy....and things got worse. I was really scared when I had the LEEP, thinking this was just going to get worse and worse. However, my doctor told me that in most cases, the LEEP takes care of the problem. I was one of those people, I have had completely normal paps ever since then (with the exception of the first one following the LEEP, which was sort-of inconclusive), that was 4 years ago. Also, as you get older, your body becomes more capable of fighting-off the virus that causes this (mainly HPV) so you have that working for you. Hang in there!
Let me know if I can help you any more.....incidentally, there is a newsletter for people like you who have questions regarding this condition, proceedures, etc. I believe it is called "HPV News". Look for it on the web to register (it is a hard copy mailed to you).
marybethn
02-05-2003, 01:46 PM
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Finally..some real answers! As far as the chores thing...Do I want to get someone else to do it for me b/c of excessive walking or something like that? I'm a teacher so I'm usually up and about a lot. Should I stick to my chair as much as possible. How long were you sore? Thanks to your description of your experience I have decided on the general anesthetic. My doctor said she did a lot of them in the OR so I'm going for that option. She's giving me a valium for this coming biopsy(this Friday! EEK!) so I'm really excited about being able to relax...the ECC just about killed me the first time around. I'm 25 and a bit freaked by all this. It just started last April and I thought everything would be fine after the cryo. I'm glad I'm not the only one who's had issues like this! Not that I wish anyone undo pain or suffering of course.
Thanks for the info. I've been searching forever for some real people stories! I'll look up the HPV news site. I've been tested to see if mine is high or low risk. I should find out soon.
Thank you again(I think I'm starting to sound a bit pitiful with all these thank you's)
mt
Thanks for the info. I've been searching forever for some real people stories! I'll look up the HPV news site. I've been tested to see if mine is high or low risk. I should find out soon.
Thank you again(I think I'm starting to sound a bit pitiful with all these thank you's)
mt
acass
02-10-2003, 09:49 PM
I had a LEEP done in April of 2002 as an in office procedure; I thought it was awfully painful. The only thing that made it easy was that it was very quick and the recovery was short. I was able to go back to work the next day (I sit most of the day at a PC on the phone.) But I don't think I would ever have it done in the office again. Just the smell and the sounds and sever burning on the cervix just is too much to deal with for myself. I never really realized what it felt like to have something hit my cervix or pain on that cervix, but you never forget that feeling.
Floridiangirl
02-11-2003, 11:35 AM
Hi Marybeth,
hope your biopsy went ok. About the chores, yes, I'd recommend you have someone else do them because you want to limit your walking/moving around as much as possible in the beginning. Just do what you absolutely have to- go to work walk from your car to your desk, that's about it. YOu will heal faster if you stay as imobile as possible that first week or two. After the proceedure, I never had a feeling of soreness like you asked, it was more like a strange, unsettling feeling, I felt sensitive, but I guess that's it.
Cheers,
Floridiangirl
hope your biopsy went ok. About the chores, yes, I'd recommend you have someone else do them because you want to limit your walking/moving around as much as possible in the beginning. Just do what you absolutely have to- go to work walk from your car to your desk, that's about it. YOu will heal faster if you stay as imobile as possible that first week or two. After the proceedure, I never had a feeling of soreness like you asked, it was more like a strange, unsettling feeling, I felt sensitive, but I guess that's it.
Cheers,
Floridiangirl
marybethn
02-11-2003, 05:49 PM
Hi everyone. The biopsy wasn't nearly as bad this time around. That ECC is a killer though! I should have the results tomorrow but I'm already scheduled for my LEEP. It'll be Friday. I'm having it done in an operating room. I'm not sure if it will be general or twighlight sleep and don't really care! I did find out that I have both high and low risk HPV types. Crap! I am taking Friday(obviously) and Monday off work. Think I'll need any more time? I guess I'll have to find someone to take my class to lunch and things like that when I get back next week. I am so scared! Not about the procedure so much but about recovery. I really appreciate y'alls input.
Thanks
mt
Thanks
mt
brandyw
02-12-2003, 09:43 AM
I have had the leep and the other biopsy you are talking about. The other biopsy was much worse than the leep to me. They didn't give me meds via IV with the leep, they only gave me a numbing shot in the cervix, so you should do even better. The biopsy was painful to me and nerve racking since I could feel it. the Leep should be much easier on you, even though being nervous is to be expected. The leep managed to get whatever abnormalities out of my cervix that they were seeing, since then I have been fine. I had mid stages of Dysplasia (spell?)
marybethn
02-12-2003, 08:51 PM
I got some bad news today. My biopsy results came in. I had 3 biopsies taken: 1 had CIN I and the other 2 had CIN II. The bad part is that my ECC (endocervical something) came back with CIN II. My last biospy, last Sept. had normal findings for the ECC. I am now scheduled for a laser conization this Friday with a differnt doctor. Anyone had this done by any chance? They're doing this instead of a regular cone b/c I'd like to have children and don't want the complications it my cause.
HELP!
mt
HELP!
mt
LSLP36
02-16-2003, 06:15 PM
I had a LEEP about 3 weeks ago. I had been putting it
off for over a year because it sounded a little scary.
Even though I still don't know if it has solved my
problem, I wish I had done it in the beginning. It was
a breeze. It was done in the doctor's office and took about 15 minutes from start to finish. I was given shots to deaden the area. I felt no pain or discomfort. Yes, there was a smell of burning flesh, but it wasn't that bad. I had no cramping
whatsoever afterward. I was even scheduled to play a
tennis match the following morning, but it was canceled due to rain. My doctor and his staff told me that there would be no problem with me playing. I went about my normal routine as soon as it was over and
have had no problems. So, the LEEP is not as bad as it
sounds
off for over a year because it sounded a little scary.
Even though I still don't know if it has solved my
problem, I wish I had done it in the beginning. It was
a breeze. It was done in the doctor's office and took about 15 minutes from start to finish. I was given shots to deaden the area. I felt no pain or discomfort. Yes, there was a smell of burning flesh, but it wasn't that bad. I had no cramping
whatsoever afterward. I was even scheduled to play a
tennis match the following morning, but it was canceled due to rain. My doctor and his staff told me that there would be no problem with me playing. I went about my normal routine as soon as it was over and
have had no problems. So, the LEEP is not as bad as it
sounds
ariela
03-05-2003, 02:04 PM
TO MARYBETH...
Hi... I actually just posted a message with questions about the exact same thing you are going through.
I am 27. I had a biopy done after a year of abnormal paps and the results showed moderate dysplasia (CIN2) and the results came back positive for HPV (high risk)... so I guess we're not alone.
I am going for a LEEP procedure at the end of March.
Hopefully after that everything will be fine, but I don't know anyone who had that done.
Any comments, answer here... or to my personnal posting about "Dysplasia, CIN2, HPV, and LEEP procedures".
Thank you. Hope everything goes ok for you.
Hi... I actually just posted a message with questions about the exact same thing you are going through.
I am 27. I had a biopy done after a year of abnormal paps and the results showed moderate dysplasia (CIN2) and the results came back positive for HPV (high risk)... so I guess we're not alone.
I am going for a LEEP procedure at the end of March.
Hopefully after that everything will be fine, but I don't know anyone who had that done.
Any comments, answer here... or to my personnal posting about "Dysplasia, CIN2, HPV, and LEEP procedures".
Thank you. Hope everything goes ok for you.
positive
03-09-2003, 12:03 AM
I jsut had a LEEP done two days ago. I had a colposcopy a few months ago.
The colposcopy was fine...jsut uncomfortable and scary since you do not know what to expect. My LEEP was bad and I (like someone else on this board mentioned) would not do it again without being knocked out. The nurse said the local anesthisia jsut works differently on different poeple. Some it take on right away and they feel nothing, some it does not work so well on and they still feel it. I felt everything.
Glad to hear I wasn't the only one. After reading these reply's I will definatly insist on going to the hospital next time.
The good news is after both my colposcopy and LEEP I was back to normal in a few hours. The recovery is a piece of cake. In fact I felt better faster after the LEEP then even the colposcopy.
The colposcopy was fine...jsut uncomfortable and scary since you do not know what to expect. My LEEP was bad and I (like someone else on this board mentioned) would not do it again without being knocked out. The nurse said the local anesthisia jsut works differently on different poeple. Some it take on right away and they feel nothing, some it does not work so well on and they still feel it. I felt everything.
Glad to hear I wasn't the only one. After reading these reply's I will definatly insist on going to the hospital next time.
The good news is after both my colposcopy and LEEP I was back to normal in a few hours. The recovery is a piece of cake. In fact I felt better faster after the LEEP then even the colposcopy.
MrsJ
03-12-2003, 05:34 PM
I just had the leep procedure done myself yesterday, and I have had the colposcopy done twice. I hope this can help ease some people's worries, as I know I had a lot of worries before I went in to have mine done.
My doctor froze my cervix before she started the leep procedure, and I did not feel anything. I had no pain, and no cramping. She took two samples out of me during the leep. I could feel her moving the instruments around, but I could not feel any of what she was actually doing. The machines do make a lot of odd noises, but nothing that you should worry about. I could smell a faint odor, but nothing major like I had read that I would. After the procedure I felt fine, and I have felt fine all day the day after too.
I hope this can help answer some questions, and I'll check back to see if there's anything else I can answer for someone.
Good luck to everyone with their tests :)
My doctor froze my cervix before she started the leep procedure, and I did not feel anything. I had no pain, and no cramping. She took two samples out of me during the leep. I could feel her moving the instruments around, but I could not feel any of what she was actually doing. The machines do make a lot of odd noises, but nothing that you should worry about. I could smell a faint odor, but nothing major like I had read that I would. After the procedure I felt fine, and I have felt fine all day the day after too.
I hope this can help answer some questions, and I'll check back to see if there's anything else I can answer for someone.
Good luck to everyone with their tests :)
jolugo
03-18-2003, 08:08 AM
Hello everyone. I´m so glad I found you all. I feel so good that I´m not the only one going throw all this. My Leep procedure is schedule for the first week of April, and I´m very scared. Not because of the procedure but because of the posible consecuences. In the las three years I´ve had three cryo´s and four colpo´s. I´ve dealing with these problem for a few years now.
My biggest dream is to have children (I´m 26 years old and being married for a year) and I´ve heard that this procedure may decrease the posibilities of conceiving. I want to ask if any of you have had children after the Leep? Was it hard to conceive? How much time should I wait before getting pregnant?
I really hope someone can help me. The best to all of you. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/confused.gif
My biggest dream is to have children (I´m 26 years old and being married for a year) and I´ve heard that this procedure may decrease the posibilities of conceiving. I want to ask if any of you have had children after the Leep? Was it hard to conceive? How much time should I wait before getting pregnant?
I really hope someone can help me. The best to all of you. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/confused.gif
Tasha804
03-18-2003, 10:31 AM
I am getting a leep in the beginning of April. I am 19 and very scared. The biospy was scary enough for me. It hurt like hell and i thought i was about to have a nervous breakdown lol. So i know the leep will be even worse for me. What exactly is this "twillight sleep"? I asked if they could just put me to sleep for it, and they said it was dangerous and it could be alot more easier if i just leave it as a office procedure. So i told them please give me something for my nerves, and they gave me 1 pill alprazolam (Xanax) I am scared that will not be enough, please expalin to me what the twillight sleep is? and why they wont put me to sleep!
piattrny
03-18-2003, 06:36 PM
I'm getting married in May and am scheduled to have the leep procedure done in April. I'm wondering if that is enough time recuperate or if I should perhaps put the procedure off. Any help is greatly appreciated.
MrsJ
03-20-2003, 08:40 AM
I see there are some new posts with some questions, and although I think you should talk to your doctor too, I can tell you what my doctor told me about my procedure.
First off my doctor told me I will still be able to have children after having the leep procedure done. It does not prevent you from being able to have kids - which was great news :)
Second off, if they gave you something to calm your nerves before the test, you should be fine. I just took two extra strength tylenol before my test, and I did just fine. I honestly didn't feel anything, and it was no where near as bad as I thought it would be. They told me it would take a couple weeks to heal up after I had the procedure done, and scheduled an appointment for me to see my doc after the two weeks was up just to check everything out. I have been able to do everything I could before the leep, with the exception of no heavy lifting.
Hope I helped and good luck :)
First off my doctor told me I will still be able to have children after having the leep procedure done. It does not prevent you from being able to have kids - which was great news :)
Second off, if they gave you something to calm your nerves before the test, you should be fine. I just took two extra strength tylenol before my test, and I did just fine. I honestly didn't feel anything, and it was no where near as bad as I thought it would be. They told me it would take a couple weeks to heal up after I had the procedure done, and scheduled an appointment for me to see my doc after the two weeks was up just to check everything out. I have been able to do everything I could before the leep, with the exception of no heavy lifting.
Hope I helped and good luck :)
Elysian
03-24-2003, 02:08 PM
Tasha --
I am 23 and had the Leep done about 9 months ago...i assure you I was scared stiff when I went in for the procedure...i even brought a towel to cover my eyes and to bite if it hurt. to my suprise it was virtually painless and they gave me nothing; however, they did totally numb my cervix. It was uncomfortable at the worst moments...and i have to agree with the funny smell comment. Since then I have had 2 normal paps and i assure you the alternative is much worse. You should really tell all of you female friends about hpv as i have found very few women even know about it and it is the main reason for getting pap smears in the first place. Good luck... hope this gives you a little peace of mind.
I am 23 and had the Leep done about 9 months ago...i assure you I was scared stiff when I went in for the procedure...i even brought a towel to cover my eyes and to bite if it hurt. to my suprise it was virtually painless and they gave me nothing; however, they did totally numb my cervix. It was uncomfortable at the worst moments...and i have to agree with the funny smell comment. Since then I have had 2 normal paps and i assure you the alternative is much worse. You should really tell all of you female friends about hpv as i have found very few women even know about it and it is the main reason for getting pap smears in the first place. Good luck... hope this gives you a little peace of mind.
Tasha804
03-25-2003, 12:56 PM
Well thanx everyone for there feedback...still scared cuz it seems to me it affects different women differently, so its know way of telling till i go, i am will go thats for sure, just nerve racking, my aunt told me it hurt like hell to her sooooo..but it could go either way, and yes not many women know about hpv, i knew about it before this happen, i had heard of it, but didnt know much and didnt know it could cost other probably besides warts(which i dont even have) and that you could contract it w/ or without a condom! I SHOULD OF NEVER STARTED HAVING SEX, we never listen till its too late ! lol..life..sucks! But it will only makes us stronger..
Sistagirl
03-27-2003, 12:35 AM
Hi Tasha,
My experience was very similiar to most of the other respondants. I had the LEEP done 1 month 20 days ago. I am still bleeding from the procedure (not heavy like a normal period). From research, prolonged bleeding is normal for a few weeks after the procedure. So, I am waiting for those few weeks to expire.
Before the LEEP, I read and research for about 1 week, so I knew what to expect. Most people said it was painless and didn't feel a thing. I did feel a little pain and discomfort during my procedure. It is a feeling that I can't describe. Like if you shocked yourself, you can't really describe how it feels. It doesn't hurt, but the sensation is rather annoying. I could actually feel the electric sensation on my cervix as the doctor removed the problem area. All I could do was drop my mouth and widen my eyes. It was painful, just irritating. Mind you, I had 3 anesthetic injections in my cervix (which I didn't feel at all). Actually, before the procedure I was scared of the injections not the procedure. The procedure lasted about 10 minutes including everything. The doctor cauterized my cervix to minimize bleeding. I do remember the vacuum and noise, but it didn't bother me. I didn't smell anything but the vinegar solution they put on your cervix to view abnormal cells.
Mentally, I've been affected since the procedure. I have no desire for sex. I feel really icky since I've been bleeding every day since the procedure.
Luckily, the abnormal cells are gone. I am happy that I don't have to go through this again.
My advice to you is pray about it, take some advil before you have it done, be optimistic. Remember it is better to suffer now than later. Take care of yourself b/c your body is a temple. And finally, never have unprotected sex again unless you for sure that you in a monogomous relationship.
Sincerely,
Sista Girl
My experience was very similiar to most of the other respondants. I had the LEEP done 1 month 20 days ago. I am still bleeding from the procedure (not heavy like a normal period). From research, prolonged bleeding is normal for a few weeks after the procedure. So, I am waiting for those few weeks to expire.
Before the LEEP, I read and research for about 1 week, so I knew what to expect. Most people said it was painless and didn't feel a thing. I did feel a little pain and discomfort during my procedure. It is a feeling that I can't describe. Like if you shocked yourself, you can't really describe how it feels. It doesn't hurt, but the sensation is rather annoying. I could actually feel the electric sensation on my cervix as the doctor removed the problem area. All I could do was drop my mouth and widen my eyes. It was painful, just irritating. Mind you, I had 3 anesthetic injections in my cervix (which I didn't feel at all). Actually, before the procedure I was scared of the injections not the procedure. The procedure lasted about 10 minutes including everything. The doctor cauterized my cervix to minimize bleeding. I do remember the vacuum and noise, but it didn't bother me. I didn't smell anything but the vinegar solution they put on your cervix to view abnormal cells.
Mentally, I've been affected since the procedure. I have no desire for sex. I feel really icky since I've been bleeding every day since the procedure.
Luckily, the abnormal cells are gone. I am happy that I don't have to go through this again.
My advice to you is pray about it, take some advil before you have it done, be optimistic. Remember it is better to suffer now than later. Take care of yourself b/c your body is a temple. And finally, never have unprotected sex again unless you for sure that you in a monogomous relationship.
Sincerely,
Sista Girl
MrsJ
03-29-2003, 07:35 PM
Good luck to you TTFN!!! I went to my doctor for my follow up from my leep this week. I did have abnormalities in the areas they removed - but the good news is they got it all and my cervix is healing good she said...so it was defenitely worth it to have it done. :)
Eerie1
03-29-2003, 07:52 PM
I just found this site, and I hope I can find friends here. I have been told I need to have the LEEP procedure done, and I am terrified. I have had other gyn surgeries and my blood pressure dropped to 70/30 but I came back. From the stress I guess. Stress is the key word for my life right now. My boyfriend is about to break up with me because we didn't have sex for a few weeks because the darn warts showed up again. I am afraid I will lose him if I have the surgery and have to abstain for a few months.
Re-reading this, it sounds like one of those unbelievable fake posts. I just can't write. My life is a wreck. I am almost 40 years old, not married, non-sypathetic boyfriend, and now facing the option of cancer. Please excuse my disjointed writing.
-Sue
Re-reading this, it sounds like one of those unbelievable fake posts. I just can't write. My life is a wreck. I am almost 40 years old, not married, non-sypathetic boyfriend, and now facing the option of cancer. Please excuse my disjointed writing.
-Sue
myshell_32
03-29-2003, 08:25 PM
well, i had the leep about 3 weeks ago. now i'm being referred to a gynogologist oncologist. due to the severe dysplasia/carcinoma. if anyone has been this route, i would love some encouragement. i can tell anyone who is fixing to have the leep procedure that i had absoultely no pain what so ever, a bit of mild crampong the following day, no biggie. and i guess i had that twilight sleep thing also. they didn't call it that, but i don't remember a thing, i would recommend it to anyone having this done.
myshell_32
04-01-2003, 04:58 PM
thanks ttfn, however it's sue w/ the unsupportive boyfriend.( Sorry sue. ) Good luck w/ your LEEP, you'll do fine! Sue if you need to talk i'm listening, you can always find better support from someone who shares the same conflicts you do, than from someone who has no clue! take care, Michelle
tsks
04-04-2003, 10:47 PM
HI! I'm glad I just found this site. I am having the LEEP done in one week, under general anesthesia. I am nervous about being put asleep for it. I don't know why, I should be glad that I won't feel any pain. Reading through these posts have made me feel a little bit better. I will be so glad to get rid of the abnormal cells. I haven't really felt "normal" since I found out (I have moderate dysplasia). Good luck to any others out there who have upcoming LEEPS!
Lori1958
04-06-2003, 05:31 PM
Hi everyone. It was a godsend to find this site. I too have just been thru a colpo and am scheduled for a LEEP procedure. I am waiting on the results of the 4 biopsies they took, but doctor said looks like a LEEP is in the future for me. I was so very scared, and feeling alone, but finding this site has made me feel so much better about this. Thanks for your honesty and feelings that everyone listed. It really makes a difference for those of us who need support, but don't have anyone to turn to who understands. Lori :)
myshell_32
04-06-2003, 06:01 PM
ok i'm faced with having to make a decision. conization which from what i understand is like the leep but they cut furthur( a much larger cone) or a partial hysterectomy. just the cervex and uterus.i'd appreciate any input from anyone who's possiblybeen faced with this same decision. i'm scared to death of being put under all the way, with the conization it will be like my experience with leep, which was fine. but then i may eventually have to have the hysterectomy anyway. help!!!i need some input here. thanks, michelle
islndgirl920
04-07-2003, 01:49 PM
Michelle, I too have had LEEP and results then came back as a CIN III, severe dysplasia and now the doctor says it shows further up cervical canal. She just did another ECC on Thursday and now I wait again. She told me a conization would probably be next. In my opinion, I would rather just be able to have hysterectomy and get rid of this stuff. Why be put under for cone and then have it come back again without a clear margin. I understand where you are coming from. I think I will just make an appointment with a Gyn/Oncologist and talk to them for where to go next with this all. What do you think? This site has been a great help.
~ANGEL~
04-11-2003, 06:53 PM
I had the LEEP procedure done 6 times last year and had lots of tissue removed on other occasions. When they did my Papsmear they said from a scale from 1 to 10, 10 bein the highest i was at a 9. According to the doctor he said it seemed like i had cancerous cells for yrs which was probably true because as long as i can remeber i have had abnormal paps and i was to scared to get it taken care of. Before i had my son i had 5 misscarriages due to the cancer. I had no idea even then that i had it. I had many problems during my pregnany i had my son when i was 8 months pregnant and he weighed a little over 4 lbs. I am only sayin all this b/c i want anyone who is scared to go to the doctor to think about what could happen if they don't go. I am also lettin anyone know that if they have any questions about cervical cancer that i am here. ty for reading this
Angel
Angel
myshell_32
04-12-2003, 07:42 PM
islndgirl920, thanks for the reply, i have sched. the hysterectomy for the 25th of this months, i'm trying to get past my fears, and i was thinking exactly like you, why do the cone procedure, and then have to go thru the waiting and worrying all over again,then to be told i have to have a hysterectomy anyway. the 4-6 weeks off work is what's gonna be hard. i will definately keep checking here to see what you decide, and i will let you know my outcome. good luck!michelle
islndgirl920
04-13-2003, 08:26 PM
Michelle, thanks for the update. Hope all goes well with yours. I called my doctor on Friday for latest ECC results once again and nurse said it was benign. O.K. fine and all, however it's always been benign but shows CIN III. I will call back on Monday and ask to speak to my doctor for the results. I'm scheduled for May 9th for repeat Colposcopy, ECC and so on and then go from there. I still think I should just go to a Gyno/Oncologist for a 2nd opinion about the hysterectomy. I'm finally healed from LEEP and then just had my period and I'm tired of being like this. I will check back here to see how everything goes for you. Please keep me updated on this as I'm very interested in your outcome. Thanks again for the response and I wish you all the best on your day. Julie
ronc_26
04-14-2003, 07:06 PM
I really have to thank everyone for their posts...it's made me a little calmer about the procedure! I am scheduled to have a LEEP under general anesthesia in 2 days. I was actually looking here for info on how I would feel the next day. I am an athletic trainer (personal trainer) and have an extremely physically demanding job. It requires being on my feet, walking, helping clients on/off equiptment, being on my knees, jumping... I am scheduled to work on Friday (the day after the procedure). My husband keeps suggesting I take the day off, however I just started a new job and am not yet comfortable taking 2 days in a row off...any suggestions/recommendations from women who have had the procedure? I received all the recommendations from my doctor and it said i could go back to work the same day, if I wanted to, but I wasn't sure if they were talking about mostly office/sitting jobs...
Also, I noticed no one who had had the procedure more than 6 months to several years ago mentioned getting pregnant/having children after having the LEEP procedure done. Have any of you gotten pregnant after having a LEEP? Just wanted some personal stories about difficulties in pregnancy, getting pregnant...after this surgery. (My husband and I were all ready to start trying to get pregnant when we found out that I needed to have my moderate cervical dysplasia taken care of...our schedule is put off until mid-summer now!)
Anyway, thanks again for your posts and in advance for addressing my concerns!
Also, I noticed no one who had had the procedure more than 6 months to several years ago mentioned getting pregnant/having children after having the LEEP procedure done. Have any of you gotten pregnant after having a LEEP? Just wanted some personal stories about difficulties in pregnancy, getting pregnant...after this surgery. (My husband and I were all ready to start trying to get pregnant when we found out that I needed to have my moderate cervical dysplasia taken care of...our schedule is put off until mid-summer now!)
Anyway, thanks again for your posts and in advance for addressing my concerns!
Elysian
04-15-2003, 11:04 AM
Ronc-- I would definitely take at the very least two days off. When I had the procedure I was beginning a new very physically demanding landscape job and was told that I needed to delay my start date for at least two weeks. This probably isn't realistic for you but you should really take it easy for the next few days folowing the procedure...your cervix is in a fragile state after the procedure and in order to heal properly needs to be given some stress free time off your feet. You want your cervix to heal with as little scar tissue as possible. Also, you will probably feel pretty crampy after the procedure...i know i did for the next couple of days. As far as conceiving after the procedure goes, my doctor, who was a Gyn/Oncologist said that if everything went as planned and the cervix healed properly that there should be no problems having children. The main concern is if the cervix is not allowed to heal properly or a leep procedure had to be performed several times then the cervix could be thinner than normal and it would be more difficult to carry a child to term. Good luck with the procedure and please try to rest afterwards...just to be safe.
tsks
04-16-2003, 09:11 PM
Ronc- I just had the leep under general anesthesia 5 days ago. It wasn't bad at all. The worst part was getting the IV in, and then I felt very sluggish when they woke me up. But I had no pain, no cramps, and have had no discharge. In fact, it doesn't even feel like I had the procedure at all! By the following day I felt back to normal, and even started some spring cleaning at home. I have a job very similiar to yours, I am a PT, and I would suggest taking that extra day off. Even if you feel ok, its still good to let your cervix heal, and i know how stenuous it can be lifting patients, bending, etc. I was allowed absolutely no bending or lifting for 24 hours after the procedure. so, my advise is to take friday and the weekend off to relax and heal. There is nothing more important than your health, even if it means missing 2 days at a new job. Good luck! you will be fine!
KC
KC
Chanekos
04-22-2003, 04:42 PM
I just underwent my second LEEP in my lfetime. I had my first one three years ago for pretty widespread CIN III. A full hysterectomy was recommended, but I was still thinking about having another child. Now, I wish I would have taken it. This time, I was told at the time of my colp that it was CIN I. After the results were in it was CIN II. I then went through my LEEP. I just got the results back saying that it had progressed to CIN III. Alo, the margins are not clear, meaning there could be some cells left over. The doctor said that the margins would be small, and the abnormal cells would have been "vaporized" by the current. I called the doctor that performed the LEEP on me three years ago and found out that this is pretty much standard procedure. I don't know if anyone else has gone through those kind of results after the LEEP, but if you have I would like to know if there is something else I could be asking or having them do about this. Thanks.
myshell_32
04-24-2003, 11:00 AM
hey Julie, i'm scheduled for surgery tuesday 4/29/03. i went for pre-op yesterday. they're going to give me an epidural and the twilight anestethia. They'll keep me in hospital 2 days. I'm scared but glad this will soon be over with. i will be sure to let you know how it went. good luck with whatever you decide. michelle
Tasha804
04-24-2003, 03:04 PM
I am following up letting yall know the update, I had my leep on April 8th, it was a 15 minute procedure they gave me a shot in my cervix, which is what hurt most, but not that bad, they also gave me a zantax to calm me down, which i think helped alot cuz i was very nervous. Afterwards i was lucky i think i had no cramps at all nothing, i felt as nothing had happen, and still do besides the abnormal discharge and wearing pads all the time. The biospy was worse then the leep!
soila1
04-24-2003, 09:35 PM
hi!! everyone I'm new , but I have seen this site for the past 3 weeks , actualy I was looking for information about the LEEP,I had my LEEP today, and then I have read same of your postings, and I'm confuse and scared please help!!!
I thougt that the LEEP will take care of my problem (CINIII), but some of you are talking about results from your LEEP??? my doctor didn't say anything about results, she just wants me to go back in a month to see how I'm healing. please help me . what's next???
I thougt that the LEEP will take care of my problem (CINIII), but some of you are talking about results from your LEEP??? my doctor didn't say anything about results, she just wants me to go back in a month to see how I'm healing. please help me . what's next???
Hometeach
05-07-2003, 12:44 AM
HI-
I am on my way tomorrow morning for what seems like my 500th pap. I have had two cryo's and a LEEP. I was cin2. I haven't had a good pap in over 5 years. Even after the cryo's and LEEP. The LEEP was the most painful thing I have ever been through. It was done in the office. Never again. I had all four of my children natural childbirth and would rather have a baby than have another LEEP. Something should be done about this procedure. No man would ever endure such a painful treatment. Why should we?
I am on my way tomorrow morning for what seems like my 500th pap. I have had two cryo's and a LEEP. I was cin2. I haven't had a good pap in over 5 years. Even after the cryo's and LEEP. The LEEP was the most painful thing I have ever been through. It was done in the office. Never again. I had all four of my children natural childbirth and would rather have a baby than have another LEEP. Something should be done about this procedure. No man would ever endure such a painful treatment. Why should we?
amber27
05-13-2003, 01:44 PM
Hello to ALL,
I am 27 year old and have been going through the same things that all of you talk about. I have had cryo, the freezing and the LEEP all went well for me. No Pain! I have been going for the regular 3 month Paps for a year now and the last one came back High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions CIN III Marked Dyslpasia (Carsinoma in situ). I am sure this is a old news to some of you. But I do have a few questions. I go back for another colpo and I want to know if I am just starting over again will it be the colpo then another LEEP or because it is a CIN III now will it be different. Also I have heard that if your have healthy immune system it will fight it and the test won't be bad. WHat do you know about this? Can I take a vitamin to help my immune system fight it. Also, I know how some Doctors are and not explaining some things so I want to share what I have found out. This IS caused by an STD the STD is HPV. Now if that is not a heart breaker, I have been safe my hole life how can I have an STD. Is what I was told is that you can have it for years and not even know it. Would some one please correct me if I am wrong. Thank You for the forum I look forward to reading more my next appointment isn't till the 19th of May so I will be ready till then. Thanks AMBER
I am 27 year old and have been going through the same things that all of you talk about. I have had cryo, the freezing and the LEEP all went well for me. No Pain! I have been going for the regular 3 month Paps for a year now and the last one came back High Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions CIN III Marked Dyslpasia (Carsinoma in situ). I am sure this is a old news to some of you. But I do have a few questions. I go back for another colpo and I want to know if I am just starting over again will it be the colpo then another LEEP or because it is a CIN III now will it be different. Also I have heard that if your have healthy immune system it will fight it and the test won't be bad. WHat do you know about this? Can I take a vitamin to help my immune system fight it. Also, I know how some Doctors are and not explaining some things so I want to share what I have found out. This IS caused by an STD the STD is HPV. Now if that is not a heart breaker, I have been safe my hole life how can I have an STD. Is what I was told is that you can have it for years and not even know it. Would some one please correct me if I am wrong. Thank You for the forum I look forward to reading more my next appointment isn't till the 19th of May so I will be ready till then. Thanks AMBER
MsPLuMs
05-13-2003, 03:13 PM
i had my LEEp done on april 24 and it was okay, at least better than i had thought. but yea, the HPV virus does stay in your body forever, and SUPPOSEDLy you couldve gotten the virus a while ago without knowing cuz the symptoms dont reallie show up until for at least 3 weeks. its good to keep your immune system high cause that way theres a chance that it can wipe out the virus, but im not sure how high that chance is. as for vitamins, take vitamins B and E i think, and take foods that contain folic acid, IE BROCCOLI and any green leafy food.
LuVme2pseZ
05-14-2003, 04:38 PM
Hi everyone!, i wish i had found this forum sooner! .. well i had leep procedure doen three weeks ago, i am doing fine and had no complications so far... although i am still confused about a couple of thngs! i had the same boyfriend for 2 years, though we recently broke up :(, i had todl him that previous to him i never had any abnormal paps and all my STD test were negative, i found out about 10 months ago i contracted HPV, when i confronted him about it and explained to him he was the onyl one i been with in the last 3 years he went to his doctor to get tested, well his doctor had informed him that he couldn't contract HPV becaue only women get it!!!????? so how did i get it???? and it had to be from him..right??? sicne he was the only one since my lst std test!!!! im soo confused and there isn't much info on men with HPV...We are still freinds and im concerned about his health as well and how wil he be affected if not treated?? can u only get it if you don't use a condom??? my next concern is when i am ready for a new realtionship or partner, how will i explain or HOW woudl i explain my heatlh situation..im stressed out and feel as though no one will ever want to be with me agian if they know!! will my new partner be safe if we are protected all the time!! please someone help!!!!!
brwneyedgrl880
05-14-2003, 10:48 PM
Hi. Would like to thank everyone who has posted information regarding LEEP on here. I read through all of them last night and had my LEEP done this morning. I felt much more prepared after reading everyones actual experiences. Mine went really well. I had it done out patient at the hospital and all of the staff were trying to talk me into having general anesthesia but thanks to reading all of the info on here i knew it could be done with only a local. I finally convinced them to just give me a local and everything went fine. I only had pain for about 10 seconds and after that felt nothing. So far have had some cramping and a very small amt of discharge. Well, just wanted to thank everyone for their postings and if i can help anyone out with more info let me know.
sis2bigl
05-16-2003, 07:40 AM
Hi! I just found this board and am so glad. I am 27 years old. I got my first bad PAP in June of 01 when I was 8 weeks pregnant. Things just seemed to get worse from there. I had my first coloposcopy whn I was 7 months pregnant and had 3 more before I delivered in Jan 02. My first LEEP (in an office with a local) was done in April of 02 for CIN III. I guess I was nieve and thought that it would take care of everything. I haven't had a normal PAP since. In Jan of this year I was put on oral and vaginal anitbiotics for HPV. This was the first time I had been told I had HPV. I had a PAP done in April and the results came back ABCUS and can not rule out CIN.
Yesterday I went to the oncologist and she went ahead and did another LEEP. Again, it was done in her ofice with a local. I had very good experiences with both LEEPs...little pain or cramping. She told me that the PAP results showed that not only were the cells found on the outer of the cervix but also they were glandular (sp?). As standard, she call me and let me know if it was CIN III or cervical cancer. I am a nervous wreck. We would like to have one more child and I feel like I have no control over planning my life at this point. This next week will be a living hell as I have just come to expect the worse. It is nice to know that so many others have had the same experience. I feel like if I can have just onemore child then I would like to have a hystorectomy. Is that jumping the gun? Has anyone had cervical cancer and been able to have another child? And finally, am I overreacting to all of this? I really am a nervous wreck...hiding it well, but it is eating me up inside.
Yesterday I went to the oncologist and she went ahead and did another LEEP. Again, it was done in her ofice with a local. I had very good experiences with both LEEPs...little pain or cramping. She told me that the PAP results showed that not only were the cells found on the outer of the cervix but also they were glandular (sp?). As standard, she call me and let me know if it was CIN III or cervical cancer. I am a nervous wreck. We would like to have one more child and I feel like I have no control over planning my life at this point. This next week will be a living hell as I have just come to expect the worse. It is nice to know that so many others have had the same experience. I feel like if I can have just onemore child then I would like to have a hystorectomy. Is that jumping the gun? Has anyone had cervical cancer and been able to have another child? And finally, am I overreacting to all of this? I really am a nervous wreck...hiding it well, but it is eating me up inside.
PaNik5717
05-17-2003, 01:22 PM
Hello Ladies:
I have one concern and a few responses, please bear with me.
This site is incredible. First, the reason I am here. I had my LEEP two days ago and am worried about starting my summer job. I am a river guide in the summer and am going to swift water school in two weeks. This means I will be combining vigorous activity with bathing in dirty river water. I have seen everything about returning to work, but then I read about no douching, no hot tubs, and no exercise. What to do?
Now, to describe my experience for some of you. I went in for a follow-up to my colpo (the second colpo was much easier than the first) and wasn't taking things too seriously because I had been through all of this before and have become somewhat numb. Anyways, I got a letter the day before my follow-up that said I needed to do Cryo or LLETZ. When I went in, we realized that there would be no good time, but right then to do either procedure since I am moving and changing jobs in two weeks. Fortunately, becuse we did it on the spot, I had one day of stress and that was it. It also meant no Zanax, no general anesthesia, no tylenol, nothing. The doctor and the nurse were stressed about doing it after a long day and I was just plain stressed. I'm sure my BP was high, but the nurse always gets a really high bp on me. So, without any real preparation, I was in it. The worst part was that they have to use a bigger speculum than for the colpo or a pap. I swear those edges are made of sandpaper! The vinegar really stung in the colpo, but not in the LEEP. Then, they gave me the shot and it was only mildly uncomfortable, which totally shocked the nurse. She has no idea how strong I have become because she is new. The effects of the shot were freaky, though, and they hadn't warned me. The numbing was great. I wasn't totally numb, but numb enough. But the epinephrine went straight to my heart and then to my legs and then spread out. My heart was racing - in addition to the already high bp - and my whole body was quivering. I was really worried that I wouldn't be still enough for him to finish. How he didn't miss and take my whole vagina or uterus is amazing. I barely bled on the table and the smell was disturbing mostly because I hadn't been warned. The loop was warm and uncomfortable, but the shot must have helped. I took my mom with me and I think us squeezing each other's hands hurt worse than anything else. The part that was a shock was how big the chunk of flesh was that they took. I saw the pics and diagrams, but I had no idea the cervix was even that big - the diagrams are not drawn to scale! My mom said it looked like a strawberry. I didn't drive home because of the trembling and because my vehicle is standard and I didn't want to bring any more blood or activity to the area than necessary. When I got home I couldn't even hold my juice because of the epinephrine. When it wore off, I was sore and took some ibuprofen. I am slightly sore today. It is an odd feeling. It's like the prodrum of a migraine. I can feel the pain deeep inside, but it's not sharp like a cramp. It's like a very mild cramp, but still disturbing. I am not bleeding right now which is a miracle since I have a fibroid and have been bleeding all the time and I am anemic. I am avoiding painkillers so that I don't feel too good and do too much.
So the procedure was OK. I will let you know about the recovery as it happens.
Now, to answer a few questions about abnormal growth and HPV. I am not a doc, but I have had to learna lot about STD's. I had an abnormal pap two years ago and the witchy midwife told me I had HPV because it is the only cause. I was freaked out. I had been with one guy who had only been with me - and I had been raped. So, how did I get it? I would guess from my rapist and it would make sense that a man with HPV would have trouble discussing these things and finding consensual partners. Well, I didn't have HPV - that time - but she treated me like some promiscuous small town girl. Ladies: I don't care how you got HPV. Your providers don't know and should not treat you with any less care than you deserve. Even if you have had high-risk sex, you deserve to be treated with respect! My current nurse has not read my chart and is giving me the same cold shoulder - like I am young and foolish and got myself in trouble.
FYI, I had to learn the hard way that HPV is the only known cause of cervical cancer, not the only cause. Other causes may be just like other cancers. If you are worried about HPV, your doc can do a digene during your next pap to see if you have HPV DNA that are high risk. I dont think testing for HPV is done during a regular STD screening. I think they usually wait until after an abnormal pap so you may have had it before. Also, know that this is not the same virus that causes warts. That is a different strain of HPV and I am guessing that some of us may have more than one strain of it floating around down there. Talk to your doc and do some research on HPV. Also know that the area that is protected from the condom is all that is protected and HPV lives in the skin. If your skin touches his, you can get it and you can pass it on to him the same way. It is probably harder to detect in males and less risky for them, but it can cause penile cancer which is rare, but must be plain awful. I am dealing with this issue again now because I was assaulted again last summer. My digene two years ago was negative and now it came back high risk. The same guy also gave me HSV. It has been tough to deal with, especially since I am single and a healthy sexual relationship is a long ways off. I don't know if I will find someone who is willing to get past these issues in getting to know me. And if I love them, too, I really don't want to infect them and condoms really only gurantee protection from things that travel in fluids (even then there's no guarantee).
As for your immune system, stress is going to deplete it. At this appointment, my doc explained that HPV lives in the cervix and not in the spinal cord like other viruses. The blood flow to the outside of the cervix is minimal which is why it will take some time for your immune system to fight it, but most women's bodies take control of the virus within a year. Staying healthy can not hurt!
My doc gives me those statistics all the time and minimizes things for me. Please take heart and remember that we are not statistics. The first time I went through this, I took things very seriously, did research, learned, and got scared. It ended up just being an abnormal pap and the stress was for nothing - statistics were on my side that time. This time, I believed him when he told me that most women get over dysplasia, that most abnormal paps resolve themselves, etc. Then, I had the high risk digene, had to do the colpo, now the LEEP. I chose the LEEP to be able to get lab results and know what we are dealing with because I was too non-chalant this time and need to be more vigilant. I look forward to lab work that says that he cut it all out no matter how severe it was!
It is nice to have a place to share my thoughts with others like me. Thanks for reading. I welcome your responses and will be more brief in the future. This forum really helps empower and heal us.
Nik
I have one concern and a few responses, please bear with me.
This site is incredible. First, the reason I am here. I had my LEEP two days ago and am worried about starting my summer job. I am a river guide in the summer and am going to swift water school in two weeks. This means I will be combining vigorous activity with bathing in dirty river water. I have seen everything about returning to work, but then I read about no douching, no hot tubs, and no exercise. What to do?
Now, to describe my experience for some of you. I went in for a follow-up to my colpo (the second colpo was much easier than the first) and wasn't taking things too seriously because I had been through all of this before and have become somewhat numb. Anyways, I got a letter the day before my follow-up that said I needed to do Cryo or LLETZ. When I went in, we realized that there would be no good time, but right then to do either procedure since I am moving and changing jobs in two weeks. Fortunately, becuse we did it on the spot, I had one day of stress and that was it. It also meant no Zanax, no general anesthesia, no tylenol, nothing. The doctor and the nurse were stressed about doing it after a long day and I was just plain stressed. I'm sure my BP was high, but the nurse always gets a really high bp on me. So, without any real preparation, I was in it. The worst part was that they have to use a bigger speculum than for the colpo or a pap. I swear those edges are made of sandpaper! The vinegar really stung in the colpo, but not in the LEEP. Then, they gave me the shot and it was only mildly uncomfortable, which totally shocked the nurse. She has no idea how strong I have become because she is new. The effects of the shot were freaky, though, and they hadn't warned me. The numbing was great. I wasn't totally numb, but numb enough. But the epinephrine went straight to my heart and then to my legs and then spread out. My heart was racing - in addition to the already high bp - and my whole body was quivering. I was really worried that I wouldn't be still enough for him to finish. How he didn't miss and take my whole vagina or uterus is amazing. I barely bled on the table and the smell was disturbing mostly because I hadn't been warned. The loop was warm and uncomfortable, but the shot must have helped. I took my mom with me and I think us squeezing each other's hands hurt worse than anything else. The part that was a shock was how big the chunk of flesh was that they took. I saw the pics and diagrams, but I had no idea the cervix was even that big - the diagrams are not drawn to scale! My mom said it looked like a strawberry. I didn't drive home because of the trembling and because my vehicle is standard and I didn't want to bring any more blood or activity to the area than necessary. When I got home I couldn't even hold my juice because of the epinephrine. When it wore off, I was sore and took some ibuprofen. I am slightly sore today. It is an odd feeling. It's like the prodrum of a migraine. I can feel the pain deeep inside, but it's not sharp like a cramp. It's like a very mild cramp, but still disturbing. I am not bleeding right now which is a miracle since I have a fibroid and have been bleeding all the time and I am anemic. I am avoiding painkillers so that I don't feel too good and do too much.
So the procedure was OK. I will let you know about the recovery as it happens.
Now, to answer a few questions about abnormal growth and HPV. I am not a doc, but I have had to learna lot about STD's. I had an abnormal pap two years ago and the witchy midwife told me I had HPV because it is the only cause. I was freaked out. I had been with one guy who had only been with me - and I had been raped. So, how did I get it? I would guess from my rapist and it would make sense that a man with HPV would have trouble discussing these things and finding consensual partners. Well, I didn't have HPV - that time - but she treated me like some promiscuous small town girl. Ladies: I don't care how you got HPV. Your providers don't know and should not treat you with any less care than you deserve. Even if you have had high-risk sex, you deserve to be treated with respect! My current nurse has not read my chart and is giving me the same cold shoulder - like I am young and foolish and got myself in trouble.
FYI, I had to learn the hard way that HPV is the only known cause of cervical cancer, not the only cause. Other causes may be just like other cancers. If you are worried about HPV, your doc can do a digene during your next pap to see if you have HPV DNA that are high risk. I dont think testing for HPV is done during a regular STD screening. I think they usually wait until after an abnormal pap so you may have had it before. Also, know that this is not the same virus that causes warts. That is a different strain of HPV and I am guessing that some of us may have more than one strain of it floating around down there. Talk to your doc and do some research on HPV. Also know that the area that is protected from the condom is all that is protected and HPV lives in the skin. If your skin touches his, you can get it and you can pass it on to him the same way. It is probably harder to detect in males and less risky for them, but it can cause penile cancer which is rare, but must be plain awful. I am dealing with this issue again now because I was assaulted again last summer. My digene two years ago was negative and now it came back high risk. The same guy also gave me HSV. It has been tough to deal with, especially since I am single and a healthy sexual relationship is a long ways off. I don't know if I will find someone who is willing to get past these issues in getting to know me. And if I love them, too, I really don't want to infect them and condoms really only gurantee protection from things that travel in fluids (even then there's no guarantee).
As for your immune system, stress is going to deplete it. At this appointment, my doc explained that HPV lives in the cervix and not in the spinal cord like other viruses. The blood flow to the outside of the cervix is minimal which is why it will take some time for your immune system to fight it, but most women's bodies take control of the virus within a year. Staying healthy can not hurt!
My doc gives me those statistics all the time and minimizes things for me. Please take heart and remember that we are not statistics. The first time I went through this, I took things very seriously, did research, learned, and got scared. It ended up just being an abnormal pap and the stress was for nothing - statistics were on my side that time. This time, I believed him when he told me that most women get over dysplasia, that most abnormal paps resolve themselves, etc. Then, I had the high risk digene, had to do the colpo, now the LEEP. I chose the LEEP to be able to get lab results and know what we are dealing with because I was too non-chalant this time and need to be more vigilant. I look forward to lab work that says that he cut it all out no matter how severe it was!
It is nice to have a place to share my thoughts with others like me. Thanks for reading. I welcome your responses and will be more brief in the future. This forum really helps empower and heal us.
Nik
MsPLuMs
05-22-2003, 11:46 PM
well i finally went back for the results of my LEEP a week ago and the doctor said that hes unsure if all thats need to be removed has been and we wont know until i do my pap in 3 months. anyways that foul yellow stuff i was leaking everyday turned out that my cervix was infected from the surgery. so the doctor gave me these antibiotics to take for a week. it seemed to work okay, until in the third day of taking it i began vomiting and was constanly nauseous. my doctor then told me to stop taking the medication cuz it was too strong for me or something.
bev0474
05-28-2003, 01:31 PM
Hello. First off, I will be redundant and say THANK YOU for this message board. It has been extremely informative.
I was married on May 03, 2003 and now June 4, 2003 I am schedule for a 7:00 a.m. LEEP procedure due to colposcopy results of mild & moderate dysplasia.
I am, of course, a little nervous; however, I have heard so many women say "Oh.. I've had that done" or "I know someone that has had it done" so my fears have withdrawn somewhat. The bummer part is being married for only a month at the time I have it done... then can't have intercourse for up to 4 weeks following that.
I am going to ask my doctor, but what do you guys think? I have the procedure on the 4th and then I am supposed to play in a softball game on the 9th. If I take it really easy and do little to nothing (except work which consists of sitting mostly)... is there a likelihood that I will be able to play ball on that following Monday?
Thanks!!!
------------------
Brooke C.
I was married on May 03, 2003 and now June 4, 2003 I am schedule for a 7:00 a.m. LEEP procedure due to colposcopy results of mild & moderate dysplasia.
I am, of course, a little nervous; however, I have heard so many women say "Oh.. I've had that done" or "I know someone that has had it done" so my fears have withdrawn somewhat. The bummer part is being married for only a month at the time I have it done... then can't have intercourse for up to 4 weeks following that.
I am going to ask my doctor, but what do you guys think? I have the procedure on the 4th and then I am supposed to play in a softball game on the 9th. If I take it really easy and do little to nothing (except work which consists of sitting mostly)... is there a likelihood that I will be able to play ball on that following Monday?
Thanks!!!
------------------
Brooke C.
OhioGirl71
05-31-2003, 01:50 PM
Hi! First let me thank everyone for posting messages regarding their experience with this procedure (LEEP) I came across this site a couple weeks ago and it has helped ease my mind alot. Having my first "abnormal" pap back in March was a very scary ordeal for me. May 9th I had the colposcopy, where 4 biopsies were taken afterwards I was so ill, just from the stress and anxiety, that I passed out. But, getting the results was just as stressful as the waiting. Thankfully, mine are "precancerous" I am scheduled for my LEEP on June 7th, a bit nervous, but anxious to get it over with and this site has helped me deal with it. It always help to have a good relationship with your doctor, a form of trust and I have that with my doctor.
Us women deal with alot and I only like to think that we are strong beings and as along as we stick to together and educate one another on our experiences with this widely common procedure, WE WILL ALL BE JUST FINE.....Keep your head up Ladies and Thank You! Anyone may email me...
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Lisa :-)
Us women deal with alot and I only like to think that we are strong beings and as along as we stick to together and educate one another on our experiences with this widely common procedure, WE WILL ALL BE JUST FINE.....Keep your head up Ladies and Thank You! Anyone may email me...
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Lisa :-)
bev0474
06-05-2003, 12:38 PM
Had my LEEP done yesterday! Everything was great. I went in to the operating room, the guys started chatting with me... and the anesthiologist (sp?) said he was giving me the Milk of Amnesia (haha).. and next thing I remember is waking up and them saying "All Done"... and a big monstrous pad being between my legs. *laughs*
I was a little crampy yesterday and today. I am back to work (though probably not a full day). Also, the doc said I should be able to go to my softball game on Monday!!! WOOHOO!~
Brooke
I was a little crampy yesterday and today. I am back to work (though probably not a full day). Also, the doc said I should be able to go to my softball game on Monday!!! WOOHOO!~
Brooke
Air Force Vet Lisa Marie
06-08-2003, 11:31 PM
HiAll!
I had a colposcopy done two months ago that showed CIN 111 and CIS. This past week I had a leep cone biopsy done. At first, I was OK. Then two days after the procedure I started hemorhagging...has this happened to anyone. It was really scary! I had to go back under general anesthesia and have some stiches put in. I bled for 8 hours before the getting back into the OR. I'm still waiting for my biopsy results.
I had a colposcopy done two months ago that showed CIN 111 and CIS. This past week I had a leep cone biopsy done. At first, I was OK. Then two days after the procedure I started hemorhagging...has this happened to anyone. It was really scary! I had to go back under general anesthesia and have some stiches put in. I bled for 8 hours before the getting back into the OR. I'm still waiting for my biopsy results.
Air Force Vet Lisa Marie
06-08-2003, 11:43 PM
It was so nice to find this web site. I had a colposcopy about two months ago. It showed CIN 111, CIS. That part was not painful, the leep cone I had this past week was a bit more uncomfortable. Two days afterwards I started hemorraging...this was scary! I was blleding for about 8 hours before they had me back in the OR. Has anyone out there gone through this? I"m also waiting for my biopsy results to come back so hopefully eveything is OK.
Thanks,
Lisa
Thanks,
Lisa
ymguerrero
06-09-2003, 12:24 PM
Wow...In reply to Lisa...No I havent gone in for that...but Im scheduled for a leep in July...Im scared for that..Did the shot hurt you...How long was the procedure...Is there a difference between a leep and a leep biopsy...So after the leep you still have to wait for more results after??????????????????I thought that was the end of it.
I am Tam
06-13-2003, 04:03 PM
HI!
I just had a colposcopy in May then a LEEP on June 5th.
The colposcopy didn't hurt at all even though he said I might feel a pinch. I didn't feel anything.
With the LEEP, I had a local anesthesia. The shot hurt some, but it wasn't long and was bearable. The procedure was a little uncomfortable but not too bad. And was fine afterwards. (They do tell you to take ibuprofen a half hour before for possible cramping after.) The lidocaine did make me feel weird and my heart race a little.
The tissue they remove with the LEEP procedure they will send to a lab for biopsy. I got the call yesterday (June 12) that I had severe dysplasia but the margins were clear. (The result of the colposcopy said moderate/severe).
I just had a colposcopy in May then a LEEP on June 5th.
The colposcopy didn't hurt at all even though he said I might feel a pinch. I didn't feel anything.
With the LEEP, I had a local anesthesia. The shot hurt some, but it wasn't long and was bearable. The procedure was a little uncomfortable but not too bad. And was fine afterwards. (They do tell you to take ibuprofen a half hour before for possible cramping after.) The lidocaine did make me feel weird and my heart race a little.
The tissue they remove with the LEEP procedure they will send to a lab for biopsy. I got the call yesterday (June 12) that I had severe dysplasia but the margins were clear. (The result of the colposcopy said moderate/severe).
Air Force Vet Lisa Marie
06-13-2003, 09:55 PM
Hey all!
I was asked about the difference between a leep and a leep cone...there is a difference. With the leep cone they are taking a larger piece of tissue out like when use to do a cold knife cone biopsy. This was explained to me by my Dr. You don't usually have to have a leep cone unless your have severe dysplasia CIN 111. I have not got my results back from it yet so I'm just waiting around to find out if I will need a hysterctomy. I have one child that I am thankful for but I have to say that I wanted to have one more. This issue depresses me but I have to think about my health, Have any of you had to have a conization done? Thet removed a lot of my cervix and it was very deep. In a way I wonder if they should have just done a hysterectomy. This was all so wired because I went from having a normal pap in 2002 to CIN 111/CIS in 2003. How could this of happened so fast? Any input would be great!
Thanks in advance,
Lisa
I was asked about the difference between a leep and a leep cone...there is a difference. With the leep cone they are taking a larger piece of tissue out like when use to do a cold knife cone biopsy. This was explained to me by my Dr. You don't usually have to have a leep cone unless your have severe dysplasia CIN 111. I have not got my results back from it yet so I'm just waiting around to find out if I will need a hysterctomy. I have one child that I am thankful for but I have to say that I wanted to have one more. This issue depresses me but I have to think about my health, Have any of you had to have a conization done? Thet removed a lot of my cervix and it was very deep. In a way I wonder if they should have just done a hysterectomy. This was all so wired because I went from having a normal pap in 2002 to CIN 111/CIS in 2003. How could this of happened so fast? Any input would be great!
Thanks in advance,
Lisa
ltaylor
06-19-2003, 11:03 AM
I have enjoyed reading everyone's experiences about their Leep procedure. I had mine done almost 2 weeks ago. It was done in the office with just a local. I had minimal cramping for a few days, but nothing bad. I am still having bleeding that is bright red. Hopefuly that will let up soon. My pap originally came back with CIN I, but when I had the colposcopy biopsy done, it actually came back with CIN III. My Leep results came back with CIN I with clear margins on one biopsy and CIN III with positive margins on the other biopsy. My doctor told me he was cautiously optimistic that we got it all even though my margins were positive. He said with a Leep procedure, alot of times the margins will come back positive because the tissue speciman has been burnt along the edges and the healing process takes care of things. Has anyone had experience with this? Has anyone had positive margins on a biopsy result and a clean Pap Smear and colposcopy at the next check up? Just curious. I think he will be relatively aggressive if my Pap and colpo came back again with CIN III. I'm done having children so the idea of a hysterectomy is not devastating, but I'd rather have it all taken care of with the Leep.
ymguerrero
06-20-2003, 06:02 PM
dear itaylor
Im going for my Leep and am so worried about the pain. does the shot hurt? What are the chances of having a hysterectomy?? Im only 20 and I want to have children.
Yvette
Im going for my Leep and am so worried about the pain. does the shot hurt? What are the chances of having a hysterectomy?? Im only 20 and I want to have children.
Yvette
ltaylor
06-23-2003, 06:54 PM
Yvette....My Leep was not painful at all. Different women have different experiences. It did get mildly uncomfortable at times, and felt a little strange. I had some mild cramping afterwards, but nothing worse than my menstrual cycle. Good luck with your procedure. Honestly, for me, my nervousness and the mental strain of biopsy results were the most unpleasant aspect of the Leep. The procedure itself was over in 15 minutes.
Cowgrlup71
06-26-2003, 02:32 PM
I have been putting off having the Leep procedure for a few months. I am scared to death. :eek: The doctors office called me today and want to schedule the procedure. Thank you all for the information. I think I will have to ask to be put under in the Operating Room since I don't think I can handle it any other way. I will be calling the doctors office and I will keep ya'll posted on my situation. Thanks again for all your information. It is good to know that I am not the only one that is scared.
Cowgrlup71
06-26-2003, 02:33 PM
I have been putting off having the Leep procedure for a few months. I am scared to death. :eek: The doctors office called me today and want to schedule the procedure. Thank you all for the information. I think I will have to ask to be put under in the Operating Room since I don't think I can handle it any other way. I will be calling the doctors office and I will keep ya'll posted on my situation. Thanks again for all your information. It is good to know that I am not the only one that is scared.
Hazelmoon22
06-28-2003, 02:49 PM
ymguerrero, I just had my LEEP done a month ago, and I had the same question, do the needles hurt? so I wanted to answer you, I am the biggest chicken in the world when it comes to needles, so I was very nervous to begin with, but honestly, I did not even know the doctor was done, I had 4 shots in my cervix and did not feel a thing, which was really weird, I expected it to hurt and everyone told me it would, but it did not. I know everyones experience is different but I just wanted to tell you not to worry, getting novicaine at the dentist in my gums was way worse that this! Also they say it will not affect your ability to get pregnant, as long as you wait a month to let it heal so you don't get scar tissue. I am 25 and my husband and I are going to start trying to have a baby soon, so I was very worried about this, but after talking to my doctor I am not, so just ask your doctor to be clear on all you are worried about, don't be afraid to ask tons of questions, I did! I know exactly how you are feeling, it is very scary and overwhelming. But you have to understand there are so many ways to fix and monitor this, as long as you have your regular visits you can treat this before it progresses. Dysplasia only progresses to cancer 40% of the time and this is only if you do nothing and have no paps for like 10 years, this is what my doctor told me. So as long has you have this procedure and keep an eye on things, no worries!
-T
-T
wvabeauty
06-29-2003, 10:53 AM
Please tell me that you are gonna tell your parents about all of this!! I am positive that they would rather know than not know. I am a parent myself and just went through the conalization last Thursday (6/26/2003). I think my mom was the first who knew!! Your health and well being will far outweigh the fact that you have been sexually active! You need to seriously sit back and think this through...what if (God forbid) you would have to give them more excrutiating news?? Then what??? Your Parents Will love you no matter what. Let them support you!!! Originally posted by ymguerrero:
TO Bev...
They told me that they were going to numb that area only...They dont put you all the way under...So that is what Im afraid of!!! I know it is a safety issue...but my parent dont know that Im sexually active..plus explaining that I have cervical dyslpasia due to an STD would not be something they want to hear
TO Bev...
They told me that they were going to numb that area only...They dont put you all the way under...So that is what Im afraid of!!! I know it is a safety issue...but my parent dont know that Im sexually active..plus explaining that I have cervical dyslpasia due to an STD would not be something they want to hear
ltaylor
06-29-2003, 11:20 AM
I agree that you should tell your parents. They would want to be there for you to help you and support you. This is a very treatable condition. If caught early, there is almost a 100% cure rate, but still, it is a very serious diagnosis. You should not go through this alone. I am a 33 yr old mother of 3; I work in the health field; I consider myself to be fairly calm under stress. But, I wil be the first one to say that being diagnosed with CIN III has been a scary and emotionally rough time for me. I am sure it will be hard to tell them, but your parents love you and will be there for you. Its just one of those things about being a parent.......unconditional love. You have enough stress right now without the extra burdon of keeping something hidden.
wvabeauty
06-29-2003, 11:21 AM
Hello to all!
I just found out I had severe dysplasia on May 22nd. I had a biopsy June 12th that confirmed it was severe and was scheduled for a conalization for the 26th...3 days ago. I will tell you one thing. I am not positive how I aqcuired this. I read on here about the cause being hpv which my doctor never mentioned to me. I am positive that there are other causes. The only thing that I am so angry with myself is that I went over 8 years without a yearly pap. WHY? I couldn't tell you why. I think about it and have so many reasons but none that are good enough to go that long without a yearly exam. I haven't received a pathology report back. I am assuming this will tell me if the edges are clear and I am praying for this! I have two children 12 and 10 and even though they consider dysplasia (I had CIN III - severe) or carcinoma in situ very treatable, beatable..... the thought of it being invasive has been devestating. I can't look back and say "if only I had....." because that is too late. I was very aggresive with the treatment. I went from Pap, to biopsy, to surgery all in about 4 weeks. I keep thinking I have so much to live for and THIS was my own stupidity. I have quit kicking myself and am now on my way through the healing process and of taking better care of myself. I thought that losing weight was all I ever wanted out of my body. Now, I want HEALTH!! It won't matter how well I fit in my clothes or if I am my ideal weight if I am eat up with cancer!!!! The procedure was not that bad. I was given verset to calm me down and then they put me to sleep but I was not intubated. He did give me a catheter and when I woke up I was having alot of pain (crampy) and felt like I had to urinate. In fact, I was insistant that I had to go so the nurse got me up and set me on the toilet. Nothing. I guess it was just that feeling of a cath...they said I just had the feeling of needing to "go". The nurse said I would probably bleed heavily for a week or so and I haven't at all. Just had some nasty discharge from the cauterization done. All in all, it was far less dramatic as I had invisioned but I just think now...gosh! what if I had not went at all?? I am so glad I did and I can thank my sister for it all. I went with her to watch her baby so she could get her pap and she snitched and told on me for not having one in so long and I ended up having one the same day. It also had to have been "divine intervention" for it took my sister 4 months to see this Doctor ( who is fabulous,I might add!) and in a matter of minutes, there was a cancelation and I was on the table having an exam. I am thankful. I have so much to live for and I will never ever miss another ob/gyn exam!!! I am a medical professional myself, an ARDMS or ultrasound tech for short. If anyone has a comment or question or would just like to have some sort of buddy system to support each other...sisters, I am HERE!!!! Hugs to you all.
I just found out I had severe dysplasia on May 22nd. I had a biopsy June 12th that confirmed it was severe and was scheduled for a conalization for the 26th...3 days ago. I will tell you one thing. I am not positive how I aqcuired this. I read on here about the cause being hpv which my doctor never mentioned to me. I am positive that there are other causes. The only thing that I am so angry with myself is that I went over 8 years without a yearly pap. WHY? I couldn't tell you why. I think about it and have so many reasons but none that are good enough to go that long without a yearly exam. I haven't received a pathology report back. I am assuming this will tell me if the edges are clear and I am praying for this! I have two children 12 and 10 and even though they consider dysplasia (I had CIN III - severe) or carcinoma in situ very treatable, beatable..... the thought of it being invasive has been devestating. I can't look back and say "if only I had....." because that is too late. I was very aggresive with the treatment. I went from Pap, to biopsy, to surgery all in about 4 weeks. I keep thinking I have so much to live for and THIS was my own stupidity. I have quit kicking myself and am now on my way through the healing process and of taking better care of myself. I thought that losing weight was all I ever wanted out of my body. Now, I want HEALTH!! It won't matter how well I fit in my clothes or if I am my ideal weight if I am eat up with cancer!!!! The procedure was not that bad. I was given verset to calm me down and then they put me to sleep but I was not intubated. He did give me a catheter and when I woke up I was having alot of pain (crampy) and felt like I had to urinate. In fact, I was insistant that I had to go so the nurse got me up and set me on the toilet. Nothing. I guess it was just that feeling of a cath...they said I just had the feeling of needing to "go". The nurse said I would probably bleed heavily for a week or so and I haven't at all. Just had some nasty discharge from the cauterization done. All in all, it was far less dramatic as I had invisioned but I just think now...gosh! what if I had not went at all?? I am so glad I did and I can thank my sister for it all. I went with her to watch her baby so she could get her pap and she snitched and told on me for not having one in so long and I ended up having one the same day. It also had to have been "divine intervention" for it took my sister 4 months to see this Doctor ( who is fabulous,I might add!) and in a matter of minutes, there was a cancelation and I was on the table having an exam. I am thankful. I have so much to live for and I will never ever miss another ob/gyn exam!!! I am a medical professional myself, an ARDMS or ultrasound tech for short. If anyone has a comment or question or would just like to have some sort of buddy system to support each other...sisters, I am HERE!!!! Hugs to you all.
PaNik5717
07-01-2003, 02:57 PM
Hey Ladies,
Just to fill you in on my LEEP recovery so far. It has been about six weeks and it hasn't been too bad. It has kinda hindered my efforts to be a river guide this summer, but my health is more important right now. I did get out there and start swimming and rowing just two weeks later and I haven't had any pain or infections. It's pretty depressing that every time I push harder out there on the river, I will start to bleed lightly at night.
My doctor said that the LEEP should not interfere with your period - I know that was a concern for someone on here a long time ago. Your period comes from your uterus and the LEEP operates on your cervix. Stress can have all kinds of effects on your period and your overall health and we have all been through all kinds of stress with this.
The margins of my LEEP were clear. I had a follow-up two weeks after the procedure which was a little surprising. The doc took this thing that looked like a long match - I think he said it was silver nitrate and would help with the healing - and he scraped it all over the wound. It hurt and it made me bleed a little. For the next few days, I had weird black stuff in the disharge. Then, I started losing little chunks of tissue. I am assuming it was a little like a scab coming off.
I have one question for all of you. My doc and I didn't discuss sex because it didn't seem like an option at the time. I am terrified that it will be painful and awkward and I really have no idea if that 2.5 cm of tissue has grown back yet. I'm not in the practice of letting people poke repeatedlay at my wounds! How long did everyone else wait? Have you received lab results? How much tissue did they take out on the rest of you?
You guys are great and all so strong. I wish you all peace and health in the near future!
Nik
Just to fill you in on my LEEP recovery so far. It has been about six weeks and it hasn't been too bad. It has kinda hindered my efforts to be a river guide this summer, but my health is more important right now. I did get out there and start swimming and rowing just two weeks later and I haven't had any pain or infections. It's pretty depressing that every time I push harder out there on the river, I will start to bleed lightly at night.
My doctor said that the LEEP should not interfere with your period - I know that was a concern for someone on here a long time ago. Your period comes from your uterus and the LEEP operates on your cervix. Stress can have all kinds of effects on your period and your overall health and we have all been through all kinds of stress with this.
The margins of my LEEP were clear. I had a follow-up two weeks after the procedure which was a little surprising. The doc took this thing that looked like a long match - I think he said it was silver nitrate and would help with the healing - and he scraped it all over the wound. It hurt and it made me bleed a little. For the next few days, I had weird black stuff in the disharge. Then, I started losing little chunks of tissue. I am assuming it was a little like a scab coming off.
I have one question for all of you. My doc and I didn't discuss sex because it didn't seem like an option at the time. I am terrified that it will be painful and awkward and I really have no idea if that 2.5 cm of tissue has grown back yet. I'm not in the practice of letting people poke repeatedlay at my wounds! How long did everyone else wait? Have you received lab results? How much tissue did they take out on the rest of you?
You guys are great and all so strong. I wish you all peace and health in the near future!
Nik
PaNik5717
07-01-2003, 02:59 PM
Hey Ladies,
Just to fill you in on my LEEP recovery so far. It has been about six weeks and it hasn't been too bad. It has kinda hindered my efforts to be a river guide this summer, but my health is more important right now. I did get out there and start swimming and rowing just two weeks later and I haven't had any pain or infections. It's pretty depressing that every time I push harder out there on the river, I will start to bleed lightly at night.
My doctor said that the LEEP should not interfere with your period - I know that was a concern for someone on here a long time ago. Your period comes from your uterus and the LEEP operates on your cervix. Stress can have all kinds of effects on your period and your overall health and we have all been through all kinds of stress with this.
The margins of my LEEP were clear. I had a follow-up two weeks after the procedure which was a little surprising. The doc took this thing that looked like a long match - I think he said it was silver nitrate and would help with the healing - and he scraped it all over the wound. It hurt and it made me bleed a little. For the next few days, I had weird black stuff in the disharge. Then, I started losing little chunks of tissue. I am assuming it was a little like a scab coming off.
I have one question for all of you. My doc and I didn't discuss sex because it didn't seem like an option at the time. I am terrified that it will be painful and awkward and I really have no idea if that 2.5 cm of tissue has grown back yet. I'm not in the practice of letting people poke repeatedly at my wounds! How long did everyone else wait? Have you received lab results? How much tissue did they take out on the rest of you?
You guys are great and all so strong. I wish you all peace and health in the near future!
Nik
Just to fill you in on my LEEP recovery so far. It has been about six weeks and it hasn't been too bad. It has kinda hindered my efforts to be a river guide this summer, but my health is more important right now. I did get out there and start swimming and rowing just two weeks later and I haven't had any pain or infections. It's pretty depressing that every time I push harder out there on the river, I will start to bleed lightly at night.
My doctor said that the LEEP should not interfere with your period - I know that was a concern for someone on here a long time ago. Your period comes from your uterus and the LEEP operates on your cervix. Stress can have all kinds of effects on your period and your overall health and we have all been through all kinds of stress with this.
The margins of my LEEP were clear. I had a follow-up two weeks after the procedure which was a little surprising. The doc took this thing that looked like a long match - I think he said it was silver nitrate and would help with the healing - and he scraped it all over the wound. It hurt and it made me bleed a little. For the next few days, I had weird black stuff in the disharge. Then, I started losing little chunks of tissue. I am assuming it was a little like a scab coming off.
I have one question for all of you. My doc and I didn't discuss sex because it didn't seem like an option at the time. I am terrified that it will be painful and awkward and I really have no idea if that 2.5 cm of tissue has grown back yet. I'm not in the practice of letting people poke repeatedly at my wounds! How long did everyone else wait? Have you received lab results? How much tissue did they take out on the rest of you?
You guys are great and all so strong. I wish you all peace and health in the near future!
Nik
ltaylor
07-02-2003, 08:38 PM
My doctor told me to wait 3 weeks before having sex after my Leep. I was a little nervous, but it was fine. I did not have any discomfort or experience any unusual or excesive discharge. I also hated the idea of further trauma to that area of my body.
Meli....hope your doctor's appointment goes well. You will have to let us know what the doctor says.
Meli....hope your doctor's appointment goes well. You will have to let us know what the doctor says.
~Meli
07-03-2003, 07:01 PM
Hi all!
I just had my first follow up pap today so, of course, I have to wait a week for the results. :-( He did check the discharge under the scope and told me that I had an infection and that's what's causing the bleeding. I was shocked because there is no pain or smell and the discharge has been there the whole time...I wonder if I could have an infection that long without knowing it. He said it's not an intorduced bacteria but an imbalance in my normal flora so that's a big releif. Just wanted to share everything with ya'll.
Nik-My doc said to wait at least 4 weeks to have sex just to make sure the cervix is completely healed. I waited about 5 and everything was just as before! Congrats on your results.
Itaylor - thanks for the reply...I will let you know the results of my pap next week!
I hope everyone is recovering well!!
Mel
I just had my first follow up pap today so, of course, I have to wait a week for the results. :-( He did check the discharge under the scope and told me that I had an infection and that's what's causing the bleeding. I was shocked because there is no pain or smell and the discharge has been there the whole time...I wonder if I could have an infection that long without knowing it. He said it's not an intorduced bacteria but an imbalance in my normal flora so that's a big releif. Just wanted to share everything with ya'll.
Nik-My doc said to wait at least 4 weeks to have sex just to make sure the cervix is completely healed. I waited about 5 and everything was just as before! Congrats on your results.
Itaylor - thanks for the reply...I will let you know the results of my pap next week!
I hope everyone is recovering well!!
Mel
iggie3
07-05-2003, 03:21 PM
My doctor dropped the bomb on me, then went on vacation. I just received the results from my Colposcopy and found out I have severe dysplasia and will need to have conization. I have been reading so many messages about having LEEPS performed, I am wondering if it is the same thing? I am wondering also, how much worse can this get? Someone wrote about their life being in limbo. I am afraid of more bad news. My doctor returns in 3 days and I can pose these questions, but I am going crazy right now. I am afraid to say ANYTHING to my kids or my extended family. I am afraid to worry them. Is this procedure, conization, pretty severe? What kind of recovery are we talking about? Help from anyone would be so much appreciated
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iggie3
07-05-2003, 04:08 PM
Dear WVABEAUTY,
I have the same thoughts, alot of sexual guilt. I get down on myself sometimes for this happening to me. All of this is happening very quickly for me too. Pap, Colposcopy and Conization (scheduled in less than a week) is all within 6 weeks. Very scary and I am trying to be strong for my kids. I am a single mom and I am the only one here for my kids. I am so GLAD to have found this web site and thank everyone for sharing about their experiences.
I am wondering what kind of surgery you had? I cant believe I have severe dysplasia. I have only missed a year in my PAP smears. How could something like this come on so quickly?? I want some reassurances, again, about how treatable and beatable SEVERE dysplasia is. The very name invokes fear.
I have the same thoughts, alot of sexual guilt. I get down on myself sometimes for this happening to me. All of this is happening very quickly for me too. Pap, Colposcopy and Conization (scheduled in less than a week) is all within 6 weeks. Very scary and I am trying to be strong for my kids. I am a single mom and I am the only one here for my kids. I am so GLAD to have found this web site and thank everyone for sharing about their experiences.
I am wondering what kind of surgery you had? I cant believe I have severe dysplasia. I have only missed a year in my PAP smears. How could something like this come on so quickly?? I want some reassurances, again, about how treatable and beatable SEVERE dysplasia is. The very name invokes fear.
~Meli
07-06-2003, 04:24 AM
I would like to reply to iggie3 and wvabeauty.
Please don't spend another second "kicking yourself" thinking this is "your own stupidity." How can you avoid something that you don't even know exists? And how could you prevent it when even condoms are proven to be highly insufficient at blocking transmission? HPV lives in the skin cells and is considered one of the most contagious viruses out there. Even if you DID know about a virus called HPV that is causing epedimic proportions of cases across America, that probably won't be prevented by using a condom and that is 100% asymptomatic in men, would you have not made the choices you made before? Would you have remained abstinent? Probably not. You didn't act irresponsibly...our partners had no idea they had it just like we had no idea we had it until the pap.
This has been very hard on me too, I'm just trying to help and make everyone understand (including myself) that this is NOT our faults! AND for anyone who has been diagnosed with CIN III (severe dysplasia)or lower (CIN II and I), this is treatable and beatable. The mechanism of cancer is that it begins, say in the cervix, and slowy causes changes in the surrounding cells of those abnormal cells. With this particular type of carcinoma, it usually takes many many years to spread into the reproductive system and become "invasive cancer" which seems to be what a lot of people are worried about. So, if you have located the abnormal cells and removed them, you can't just jump to invasive cancer...your other organs are safe. All you have to do is go back for follow ups to see if it has returned and if it has, it won't have had the time to become CIN III. It will just be starting and you can most likely just remove a thin layer of cells. I guess what I'm saying is if you don't have invasive cancer now and you remove the cells and you go to your follow up appts. you can avoid/prevent invesive cancer 100%...so please don't worry. Thank God we found the abnormalities sooner than later!
I also wanted to say to iggie3 that I too had a pap last year and then had results of severe dysplasia this year. I have learned that your immune system and smoking play pivotal roles in the severity of the "disease." Most people who have results like us were either exposed to a lot of the virions (virus particles) upon transmission or have a weakened immune system due to various deficiencies. Smoking greatly decreases your ability to produce and activate the T cells needed to fight off this virus so a smoker may be exposed to the same amount of viral particules as a non-smoker but the damage done is much greater. I would suggest trying to boost your immune system with vitamins like A, C and E and other "cancer-fighting" antioxidants.
I know I'm not a doctor but I have done A LOT of research on this, am graduating in Dec. with a major in Biolgy/minor in Chemistry and just recently took a Virology course that covered HPV fairly extensively.
Please don't forget that stress is one of the greatest known preventable immune lowering factors out there... PLEASE don't blame yourself, don't stress out, take it one day at a time and be happy that this was detected now and not a year from now! We will beat this and go on to live happy normal lives! :-)
~Meli
Please don't spend another second "kicking yourself" thinking this is "your own stupidity." How can you avoid something that you don't even know exists? And how could you prevent it when even condoms are proven to be highly insufficient at blocking transmission? HPV lives in the skin cells and is considered one of the most contagious viruses out there. Even if you DID know about a virus called HPV that is causing epedimic proportions of cases across America, that probably won't be prevented by using a condom and that is 100% asymptomatic in men, would you have not made the choices you made before? Would you have remained abstinent? Probably not. You didn't act irresponsibly...our partners had no idea they had it just like we had no idea we had it until the pap.
This has been very hard on me too, I'm just trying to help and make everyone understand (including myself) that this is NOT our faults! AND for anyone who has been diagnosed with CIN III (severe dysplasia)or lower (CIN II and I), this is treatable and beatable. The mechanism of cancer is that it begins, say in the cervix, and slowy causes changes in the surrounding cells of those abnormal cells. With this particular type of carcinoma, it usually takes many many years to spread into the reproductive system and become "invasive cancer" which seems to be what a lot of people are worried about. So, if you have located the abnormal cells and removed them, you can't just jump to invasive cancer...your other organs are safe. All you have to do is go back for follow ups to see if it has returned and if it has, it won't have had the time to become CIN III. It will just be starting and you can most likely just remove a thin layer of cells. I guess what I'm saying is if you don't have invasive cancer now and you remove the cells and you go to your follow up appts. you can avoid/prevent invesive cancer 100%...so please don't worry. Thank God we found the abnormalities sooner than later!
I also wanted to say to iggie3 that I too had a pap last year and then had results of severe dysplasia this year. I have learned that your immune system and smoking play pivotal roles in the severity of the "disease." Most people who have results like us were either exposed to a lot of the virions (virus particles) upon transmission or have a weakened immune system due to various deficiencies. Smoking greatly decreases your ability to produce and activate the T cells needed to fight off this virus so a smoker may be exposed to the same amount of viral particules as a non-smoker but the damage done is much greater. I would suggest trying to boost your immune system with vitamins like A, C and E and other "cancer-fighting" antioxidants.
I know I'm not a doctor but I have done A LOT of research on this, am graduating in Dec. with a major in Biolgy/minor in Chemistry and just recently took a Virology course that covered HPV fairly extensively.
Please don't forget that stress is one of the greatest known preventable immune lowering factors out there... PLEASE don't blame yourself, don't stress out, take it one day at a time and be happy that this was detected now and not a year from now! We will beat this and go on to live happy normal lives! :-)
~Meli
ymguerrero
07-07-2003, 05:51 PM
hey you all...how are all of you guys.i havent posted for ahile bc i just have been so preocupied with my life. ive read so many of your stories and really dont know what to expect. i dont know the level of my severity. all i know is that i have moderate to severe dysplasia and am scheduled for my leep on the 23rd. my parents dont know and cant find out. i feel so alone and diseased. no matter what happens ill always have this ugly thing haunting me. ( To-ttfn212 Your situation is what im worried about? what if mine is out of the margins? What happens after that how mant times do they redo the procedure before they quit..does that lead to the hysterectomy? Im only twenty and want to have children. I have been having nightmares everynight. I have been dreading thid for a month already. Im scared of the pain, the side effects, the healing process, the needles, the ****s...All the information is so helpful from you all but I still doubt and worry that everything is going to be okok Hugs to you all...
ymguerrero
07-09-2003, 12:13 PM
TO TTFN:
oH MY GOSH..I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT A HYSTERECTOMY IS EXCEPT THAT THEY REMOVE EVERYTHING WHICH PROBABLY MEANS I WONT BE ABLE TO HAVE KIDS RIGHT?? DID YOUR DOCTOR EVER EXPLAIN TO YOU THE CHANCES OF WOMEN HAVING A HYSTERECTOMY? BY THE WAY WHAT DID YOUR DOCTOR SAY ABOUT HOW LONG HAVING TO WAIT AFTER THE LEEP..AND HOW LONG TO WAIT UNTIL YOU COULD EXCERCISE? IM HEARING SO MANY DIFFERENT STORIES. ALL I HOPE FOR IS TAKING CARE OF THE PROBLEM AND NOT HAVING TO HAVE ANOTHER LEEP. I GUESS YOUR VIRUS IS VERY ACTIVE TO KEEP COMING BACK HUH? MAYBE YOUR LEVEL OF DYSPLASIA IS VERY HIGH WHO KNOWS I ONLY HOPE FOR THE BEST FOR BOTH OF US. THANKS FOR ALL THE INFO..SORRY ABOUT ALL THE QUESTIONS...
oH MY GOSH..I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT A HYSTERECTOMY IS EXCEPT THAT THEY REMOVE EVERYTHING WHICH PROBABLY MEANS I WONT BE ABLE TO HAVE KIDS RIGHT?? DID YOUR DOCTOR EVER EXPLAIN TO YOU THE CHANCES OF WOMEN HAVING A HYSTERECTOMY? BY THE WAY WHAT DID YOUR DOCTOR SAY ABOUT HOW LONG HAVING TO WAIT AFTER THE LEEP..AND HOW LONG TO WAIT UNTIL YOU COULD EXCERCISE? IM HEARING SO MANY DIFFERENT STORIES. ALL I HOPE FOR IS TAKING CARE OF THE PROBLEM AND NOT HAVING TO HAVE ANOTHER LEEP. I GUESS YOUR VIRUS IS VERY ACTIVE TO KEEP COMING BACK HUH? MAYBE YOUR LEVEL OF DYSPLASIA IS VERY HIGH WHO KNOWS I ONLY HOPE FOR THE BEST FOR BOTH OF US. THANKS FOR ALL THE INFO..SORRY ABOUT ALL THE QUESTIONS...
ltaylor
07-09-2003, 05:52 PM
I had my Leep done on June 6. The results from that came back as one area with CIN I with clear margins and the other area with CIN III with positive margins. My doctor told me not to worry excessively over the positive margins because alot of times the healing process (ie. the inflammation and the coagulation from the burning of the tissue) will actually resolve the situation. He told me I had about an 80% chance of having the dysplasia taken care of. (I have read anywhere from a 60% to 90% chance). At my next check up in October he will go ahead and do a Pap and another colposcopy to check everything out. I guess we will discuss treatment options from there. I would agree to one more Leep before having major surgery.
ymguerrero
07-10-2003, 12:26 PM
to itaylor...
I hope everything works out for you. thats what im afraid of. the leep not taking care of the problem!! i dont want to have major surgery. i want to have kids im only twenty years old. i wonder how far the treatment would have to go before they decide to give me major surgery. i wonder if it is umhealthy to keep having leeps.?? i hope everything turns out ok on your next pap..i go for my leep on the 23rd of july..i am so scared of the pain..
I hope everything works out for you. thats what im afraid of. the leep not taking care of the problem!! i dont want to have major surgery. i want to have kids im only twenty years old. i wonder how far the treatment would have to go before they decide to give me major surgery. i wonder if it is umhealthy to keep having leeps.?? i hope everything turns out ok on your next pap..i go for my leep on the 23rd of july..i am so scared of the pain..
iggie3
07-10-2003, 12:55 PM
Thanks for the reply from Meli/ Newbie.
I LOVE the words of encouragement. I am still having a hard time with the guilt. I am scared to death I am going to die and leave my children orphans because I was reckless! I am basically scared of everything right now. I try to take care of my health. I dont smoke and I exercise alot. I have only risked my health in the sexual arena (twice in the last year and a half!). THe only other thing I can guess is my diet not being very good. I am a single mom and eat occasionally, and usually on the run.
Since you have done so much research, I have more questions. I am more afraid of lab results more than anything. I already have my children, but I am afraid of something what else can go wrong? My doctor has told me that she doesnt know what has caused this until she gets the lab results back from the conization I am having TOMORROW. I have read so much that it is almost always the HPV. Is that really the case? Why has my doctor left it so open (more for me to worry about). Do you know what else causes dysplasia? How are you doing?
Thanks again,
So good to hear from you
I LOVE the words of encouragement. I am still having a hard time with the guilt. I am scared to death I am going to die and leave my children orphans because I was reckless! I am basically scared of everything right now. I try to take care of my health. I dont smoke and I exercise alot. I have only risked my health in the sexual arena (twice in the last year and a half!). THe only other thing I can guess is my diet not being very good. I am a single mom and eat occasionally, and usually on the run.
Since you have done so much research, I have more questions. I am more afraid of lab results more than anything. I already have my children, but I am afraid of something what else can go wrong? My doctor has told me that she doesnt know what has caused this until she gets the lab results back from the conization I am having TOMORROW. I have read so much that it is almost always the HPV. Is that really the case? Why has my doctor left it so open (more for me to worry about). Do you know what else causes dysplasia? How are you doing?
Thanks again,
So good to hear from you
brwneyedgrl880
07-10-2003, 07:01 PM
I have had dysplasia twice. Once was 12 yrs ago and i had laser surgery to have it removed. I had normal paps until April of this year and it came back with moderate to severe dysplasia. I had a LEEP done on May 14. Please don't worry too much it really wasn't that bad. The shots in the cervix don't hurt nearly as much as getting novacaine at the dentist. I had no problems with healing afterward. (actually I am now pregnant and from what I can figure I conceived exactly 4 weeks after the procedure) :) Also, I have been tested several times for HPV and all of them have come back negative. so it is possible to have dysplasia without having HPV virus. Well good luck to you and don't worry too much. (I know easier to say than to do)
Juliebean8381
07-11-2003, 12:41 AM
ymgurerrero,
I just wanted you to know that you are not alone. I am in the exact same position as you are. I was diagnosed with mild dysplasia a year and a half ago when I went for my very first PAP ever and have since had two colposcopies and two biopsies, the latter of which turned up that the dysplasia has progressed to moderate. I am 21 yrs old and have gone through this all alone up until now. I haven't told my parents about all this for the same reasons that you have. When I was first told that I would need to have a LEEP procedure and explained what it was and how it was performed I was terrified. The first thing that went through my mind was how it would affect my ability to conceive and bear children. Being so young I was afraid that time might be running out to have children. Since I was told that I would need the procedure a few weeks ago I have read and researched everything that I could find about the procedure, dysplasia and cervical cancer. Reading about the procedure and visiting websites that have women's responses and experiances has made me feel tons better. I am a little concerned that I may have made the wrong choice by choosing to have the procedure done under local anesthesia. During the biopsies I didn't feel any pain only a mid stomach sickening sensation as the sample was taken. Something similiar to having stiches removed, but I have a pretty weak stomach when it comes to things like that. This is alot bigger than a biopsy and I am going to talk to the doctor a few days before the procedure to see if he can give me something for my nerves and to calm me down. He assured me that there is little chance that this procedure will have any negative effect on my ability to conceive and bear children as long as the post procedure guidelines are followed.
Most importantly, do not put ANYTHING into your vagina for at least 4 weeks. Especially no sex, the impact from intercourse could cause scarring of the cervix making it more difficult, not impossible, to conceive.
I am also worried that with a section of my cervix missing that once I resume intercourse that the impact might damage the remaining areas of my cervix. Also, does anyone have any information as to whether or not sex feels any different for men after a LEEP?
My advice is to research and learn as much as you can about the procedure as you can. There are tons of websites out there concerning LEEP.
I am having my procedure the same day as you, July 23 and would like you to know that if you need to talk, have any questions or need someone to relate to that knows EXACTLY what you are going through that you are more than welcome to email me or join me on an online messenging service. I am lucky enough to have the support of a wonderful man to help see me through this. My boyfriend is the only one that I have told about all of this and he has done everything he can to learn about the condition and procedure as well as to find ways that he can comfort and support me. I hope that you have someone, a trusted friend or other trusted individual that can help you through this. Best of luck and please keep me updated.
Julie
I just wanted you to know that you are not alone. I am in the exact same position as you are. I was diagnosed with mild dysplasia a year and a half ago when I went for my very first PAP ever and have since had two colposcopies and two biopsies, the latter of which turned up that the dysplasia has progressed to moderate. I am 21 yrs old and have gone through this all alone up until now. I haven't told my parents about all this for the same reasons that you have. When I was first told that I would need to have a LEEP procedure and explained what it was and how it was performed I was terrified. The first thing that went through my mind was how it would affect my ability to conceive and bear children. Being so young I was afraid that time might be running out to have children. Since I was told that I would need the procedure a few weeks ago I have read and researched everything that I could find about the procedure, dysplasia and cervical cancer. Reading about the procedure and visiting websites that have women's responses and experiances has made me feel tons better. I am a little concerned that I may have made the wrong choice by choosing to have the procedure done under local anesthesia. During the biopsies I didn't feel any pain only a mid stomach sickening sensation as the sample was taken. Something similiar to having stiches removed, but I have a pretty weak stomach when it comes to things like that. This is alot bigger than a biopsy and I am going to talk to the doctor a few days before the procedure to see if he can give me something for my nerves and to calm me down. He assured me that there is little chance that this procedure will have any negative effect on my ability to conceive and bear children as long as the post procedure guidelines are followed.
Most importantly, do not put ANYTHING into your vagina for at least 4 weeks. Especially no sex, the impact from intercourse could cause scarring of the cervix making it more difficult, not impossible, to conceive.
I am also worried that with a section of my cervix missing that once I resume intercourse that the impact might damage the remaining areas of my cervix. Also, does anyone have any information as to whether or not sex feels any different for men after a LEEP?
My advice is to research and learn as much as you can about the procedure as you can. There are tons of websites out there concerning LEEP.
I am having my procedure the same day as you, July 23 and would like you to know that if you need to talk, have any questions or need someone to relate to that knows EXACTLY what you are going through that you are more than welcome to email me or join me on an online messenging service. I am lucky enough to have the support of a wonderful man to help see me through this. My boyfriend is the only one that I have told about all of this and he has done everything he can to learn about the condition and procedure as well as to find ways that he can comfort and support me. I hope that you have someone, a trusted friend or other trusted individual that can help you through this. Best of luck and please keep me updated.
Julie
ymguerrero
07-11-2003, 12:20 PM
julie:
oh my gosh...you are in the exact same position as me. are you going to tell your parents?? did they tell you that your situatin was caused by hpv? i found out on june 3rd that i had to have my leep done. so i have researched everything possible since then...i have everything...trust me. i dont think there is anything left out there for me to read...by the way my biopsy was so painful. that is so wierd that were having our leep the same day. mine is at 9.00 am in the morning..and theres no way my mom is finding out either..my boyfriend is very supportive too so hes there for me all the way which makes me feel so much better. anyways i hope the best for both of us and our future..i want to have kids so bad..i hope we can concieve bc i have heard of a couple stories where the condition keeps coming back...thats what im scared of..anyways ill keep you posted..
oh my gosh...you are in the exact same position as me. are you going to tell your parents?? did they tell you that your situatin was caused by hpv? i found out on june 3rd that i had to have my leep done. so i have researched everything possible since then...i have everything...trust me. i dont think there is anything left out there for me to read...by the way my biopsy was so painful. that is so wierd that were having our leep the same day. mine is at 9.00 am in the morning..and theres no way my mom is finding out either..my boyfriend is very supportive too so hes there for me all the way which makes me feel so much better. anyways i hope the best for both of us and our future..i want to have kids so bad..i hope we can concieve bc i have heard of a couple stories where the condition keeps coming back...thats what im scared of..anyways ill keep you posted..
Juliebean8381
07-11-2003, 11:32 PM
hey. Mine is scheduled at 2:35 in the afternoon. Mine is from HPV also. I don;t know what the risk level of mine is. I've heard stories also but I try not to think about that. I guess if i dont think about it then it isnt uite a possibility. There is no way that I am telling my parents. I understand what everyone means by they love me and will love me unconditionally but they arent the ones in this family and they dont understand the dynamics that make up my family or what telling them about this would do. I understand they mean well but there is no good that can come from me telling my family. As far as the recurrences go I am scared to death of that mainly because mine got so bad so fast and i am trying to do everything i can to prevent it. In a way this is kind of a good thing for me because it has made me quit smoking (nasty little habit i picked up somewhere) and it has made me start eating again and keeping it down (eating disorders, another nasty little habit). I just pray that this takes care of it for good or at least until I have the family I want. I am not scared of possibly having to have a hysterectomy i am just terrified of the thought of having to have one before I can have children. Given this history and all these problems i am probably going to have a full hysterectomy after i have my kids just in case and to prevent any furher complications, I just hope that it isnt in my near future. Try to think positive though, everything will be ok :)
julie
julie
iggie3
07-12-2003, 07:55 AM
To all who are keeping this a secret:
Let me tell you, I am forty years old and still do not feel comfortable telling my family I may have jeapordized by health from a STD. I have tried to find support any place I can. If you dont feel like your family is there for you, try to find it some other way. My partner/ boyfriend has been incredible through all of this. I thank god for him. I have also found a great deal of support through my church. I was trying to find a place for my kids to stay during this "ordeal" and actually ended up talking to antoher mom (one of my kids friends) and she has been through alot of the same. There is also alot of free counseling in the yellow pages. I have used the YWCA for other ordeals that have scared me to death. However, this IS very scary and I am not through with the fear yet either. I had my conization yesterday, outpatient in the hospital. My doctor did not give me any choice, she already told me we would do it under general anesthesia. I was afraid of being totally knocked out, even getting the IV was scary for me. But, they gave me some valium and I got through. I feel great today, but dont want to push it. I am usually very active but want to be careful.
I am now in that nail biting, wating for lab results. I dont know how to get ready for "the phone call". To all out there, please continue to pray and hang together.
Let me tell you, I am forty years old and still do not feel comfortable telling my family I may have jeapordized by health from a STD. I have tried to find support any place I can. If you dont feel like your family is there for you, try to find it some other way. My partner/ boyfriend has been incredible through all of this. I thank god for him. I have also found a great deal of support through my church. I was trying to find a place for my kids to stay during this "ordeal" and actually ended up talking to antoher mom (one of my kids friends) and she has been through alot of the same. There is also alot of free counseling in the yellow pages. I have used the YWCA for other ordeals that have scared me to death. However, this IS very scary and I am not through with the fear yet either. I had my conization yesterday, outpatient in the hospital. My doctor did not give me any choice, she already told me we would do it under general anesthesia. I was afraid of being totally knocked out, even getting the IV was scary for me. But, they gave me some valium and I got through. I feel great today, but dont want to push it. I am usually very active but want to be careful.
I am now in that nail biting, wating for lab results. I dont know how to get ready for "the phone call". To all out there, please continue to pray and hang together.
iggie3
07-12-2003, 08:02 AM
I know I just posted, but I want to update YMGUERRO. I had my cone done under general, so I guess that is the least painful way. I didnt have to get a shot in my cervix, just an IV. I am not a doctor, but I know the LEEP procedure involves burning some of the cells when they remove the biopsy. I think the cone is more invasive, but no burning. Both procedures are attempting the same result. I really think it is just the preference of the doctor. I want so very much to be DONE with this. I have been worrying and carrying this around, feeling guilty, losing sleep, not concentrating on work for over a month now. It takes alot of strength to get through this. I am a little frustrated, because I think this is the worst part. (waiting for the lab results) and my boyfriend, who has been my best support is saying things like "it's over now". Well, we all know it is not. So... still appreciate all the support out there. Peace to all (if you can)
monica26b
07-12-2003, 08:39 AM
Hello everyone. I thought I would share my experience to help someone.
I had a cone done yesterday.
It started out as my paps coming back abnormal for the past couple of years. This last time my OBGYN wanted to do a colpo. and take some biopsys.
The colpo. was done in the office and she took several biopsys. I wasn't given any thing for pain, just Ibuprofen. I had some discharge, cramping and some ab and lower back pain for about a week.
It took about 3 weeks to get the reuslts back.
It came back with moderate displasia and HPV.
There are two types of HPV- warts (external) and HPV that causes cancer. Now, my husband and I had not been with anyone else sexually, so how did I have this. My doctor explained that it is VERY common. That males sex organs are of course external and they can get it even from sharing a jock strap, and of course ours are internal. So, we can only get it from intercourse. She said that most people's immune system will fight the HPV, but I have a very low immune system.
I am 30 and we do not have children. She decided to do a cone as an out patient procedure.
I went in, they numbed the area where they put the IV in first. They gave me an injection in the IV to calm me down before surgery started. Surgery lasted for about 45 min. (this is longer than normal, she did a cone in two areas) Normal is about 20 min. During recovery they gave me several shots for pain, and a script for pain meds if needed later. The tissue is sent on slides to the pathologist to make sure that she got all of the precancer cells, and that there are no cancer cells seen. I slept all day yesterday.
Today, I am in some discomfort, and taking medication.
I am not bleeding, but am having discharge with slight odor, which she said would be noraml. There is a buring sensation when I urinate. I also have a sore throat from the tube from surgery.I am not to lift anything for several weeks. Not to put anything in the vigina for 5-6 weeks and return for a follow up.
She did say this procedure may make it more difficult to have children. ( This was a concern, since I don't have any yet.)
I wish I had seem this site BEFORE my procedure, but hope that my info helps someone else and please feel free to contact me if you have questions or need to talk.
Take care,
:)
I had a cone done yesterday.
It started out as my paps coming back abnormal for the past couple of years. This last time my OBGYN wanted to do a colpo. and take some biopsys.
The colpo. was done in the office and she took several biopsys. I wasn't given any thing for pain, just Ibuprofen. I had some discharge, cramping and some ab and lower back pain for about a week.
It took about 3 weeks to get the reuslts back.
It came back with moderate displasia and HPV.
There are two types of HPV- warts (external) and HPV that causes cancer. Now, my husband and I had not been with anyone else sexually, so how did I have this. My doctor explained that it is VERY common. That males sex organs are of course external and they can get it even from sharing a jock strap, and of course ours are internal. So, we can only get it from intercourse. She said that most people's immune system will fight the HPV, but I have a very low immune system.
I am 30 and we do not have children. She decided to do a cone as an out patient procedure.
I went in, they numbed the area where they put the IV in first. They gave me an injection in the IV to calm me down before surgery started. Surgery lasted for about 45 min. (this is longer than normal, she did a cone in two areas) Normal is about 20 min. During recovery they gave me several shots for pain, and a script for pain meds if needed later. The tissue is sent on slides to the pathologist to make sure that she got all of the precancer cells, and that there are no cancer cells seen. I slept all day yesterday.
Today, I am in some discomfort, and taking medication.
I am not bleeding, but am having discharge with slight odor, which she said would be noraml. There is a buring sensation when I urinate. I also have a sore throat from the tube from surgery.I am not to lift anything for several weeks. Not to put anything in the vigina for 5-6 weeks and return for a follow up.
She did say this procedure may make it more difficult to have children. ( This was a concern, since I don't have any yet.)
I wish I had seem this site BEFORE my procedure, but hope that my info helps someone else and please feel free to contact me if you have questions or need to talk.
Take care,
:)
ldn
07-13-2003, 02:25 AM
i had a cone leep done yestarday and thanks for letting me know why my throat hurt so bad. i too was put to sleep in the hospital . i really have only had a little back pains . but i have had severe nausea and fatigue. this is the first time ive been awake for more than an hour in 2 days. my doctor advised me that i couldnt take a bath or go swimming for 3 weeks. have any of your doctors said this to you? thanks for all the info. what about the nausea feeling?
monica26b
07-13-2003, 12:41 PM
Hi,
I also have been vomiting and sleeping constantly as well. I think the vomiting is from the anestesia and pain medication.(takes several days to get out of your system, if you are coughing that is why too)
My doctor didn't say anything about not taking a bath, just not inserting anything in that area.
I have been eating soup and crackers and drinking sprite. Seem to hold that down ok.
I hope you feel better soon, It's taking longer than I was expecting as well for me too.
Good luck and take care of your self!
:)
I also have been vomiting and sleeping constantly as well. I think the vomiting is from the anestesia and pain medication.(takes several days to get out of your system, if you are coughing that is why too)
My doctor didn't say anything about not taking a bath, just not inserting anything in that area.
I have been eating soup and crackers and drinking sprite. Seem to hold that down ok.
I hope you feel better soon, It's taking longer than I was expecting as well for me too.
Good luck and take care of your self!
:)
~Meli
07-13-2003, 01:13 PM
Hello Everyone.
I am so glad we have this site to communicate our thoughts and fears! To Idn and iggie3...I'm so glad that the procedure part is over with and that you aren't having any major complications! Unfortunatley, the waiting part is just as hard as all the worrying and "nail-biting" you went through before. Everything is going to be fine! Iggie3...yes, I have researched this and can only tell you that I understand it to be like ymguerrero said - 95% of the time the dysplasia is caused by HPV and the other 5% of the time the cause is "unknown." I take this to mean the cause is just like any other form of non-genetic cancer...or cancer caused by external factors like smoking, pollution, etc.. Sometimes the cells loose or get a mutation in the gene that fight off cancer, called tumor suppresor genes. Usually our cells are programmed to "sense" their neighboring cells so when they are toucheing another cell they don't divide or undergo mitosis. Soemtimes a mutation occurs there so the cells continues to divide putting pressure on neighboring cells, sometimes causing them to die or mutate. These mutations are usually caused by external factors like viruses but spontaneous mutations occur daily! Our body's immune system is supposed to detect those irregular cells and digest them to prevent cancer but sometimes an error occurs there too. There are so many ways that precancerous/cancerous cells can start and in so many places, so our cervix is no exception...especially since it IS somewhat exposed to the outside and undergoes so much trauma when we have sex or whatever else we allow "up there!"
I don't know if I've even begun to answer your question. And this is only how I understand it to be. For anyone concerned with the issue, ask your doctor to test for HPV at your next pap smear. HPV testing requires a vaginal swab since it lives in those cells so "ask and ye shall receive!" 5% of the population that has dysplasia does not harbor the HP virus..I haven't gotten tested either, I somehow forget, if you can believe that,evertime I see my doc!
Sorry for the EXTREMELY long message! I want to say so much. It seems the biggest fears right now are - what if my results have positive margins and what if it keeps coming back over and over again. Unfortunately there is nothing that can be said to these, everyone has to go through the waiting and nothing can be done to help prevent these (except the obvious ..stay healthy,..) I just got my first follow-up pap and should get my results on Mon. (tomorrow). I'm on pins and needles, I dread to hear that it came back. But I can't worry...one day at a time, one month at a time, one year at a time.
I wanted to let everyone know that there is an HPV hotline that I came across before I found this website...they are extremely nice, anonymous and can answer any scientific quetions you may have. 2-6 pm eastern time, not toll free but worth the call if you first write out all your questions. 919-361-4848. The HPV National Line
Everybody will be in my prayers. And please let me know how your results come out Idn and iggie3. Please keep us updated ymguerrero..I'm so glad you have your boyfreind. As long as you have somebody to be there for you. I can't advise you to tell your parents when i haven't even told mine (I'm 24). ANd I will let you know tomorrow of my results.
I am so glad we have this site to communicate our thoughts and fears! To Idn and iggie3...I'm so glad that the procedure part is over with and that you aren't having any major complications! Unfortunatley, the waiting part is just as hard as all the worrying and "nail-biting" you went through before. Everything is going to be fine! Iggie3...yes, I have researched this and can only tell you that I understand it to be like ymguerrero said - 95% of the time the dysplasia is caused by HPV and the other 5% of the time the cause is "unknown." I take this to mean the cause is just like any other form of non-genetic cancer...or cancer caused by external factors like smoking, pollution, etc.. Sometimes the cells loose or get a mutation in the gene that fight off cancer, called tumor suppresor genes. Usually our cells are programmed to "sense" their neighboring cells so when they are toucheing another cell they don't divide or undergo mitosis. Soemtimes a mutation occurs there so the cells continues to divide putting pressure on neighboring cells, sometimes causing them to die or mutate. These mutations are usually caused by external factors like viruses but spontaneous mutations occur daily! Our body's immune system is supposed to detect those irregular cells and digest them to prevent cancer but sometimes an error occurs there too. There are so many ways that precancerous/cancerous cells can start and in so many places, so our cervix is no exception...especially since it IS somewhat exposed to the outside and undergoes so much trauma when we have sex or whatever else we allow "up there!"
I don't know if I've even begun to answer your question. And this is only how I understand it to be. For anyone concerned with the issue, ask your doctor to test for HPV at your next pap smear. HPV testing requires a vaginal swab since it lives in those cells so "ask and ye shall receive!" 5% of the population that has dysplasia does not harbor the HP virus..I haven't gotten tested either, I somehow forget, if you can believe that,evertime I see my doc!
Sorry for the EXTREMELY long message! I want to say so much. It seems the biggest fears right now are - what if my results have positive margins and what if it keeps coming back over and over again. Unfortunately there is nothing that can be said to these, everyone has to go through the waiting and nothing can be done to help prevent these (except the obvious ..stay healthy,..) I just got my first follow-up pap and should get my results on Mon. (tomorrow). I'm on pins and needles, I dread to hear that it came back. But I can't worry...one day at a time, one month at a time, one year at a time.
I wanted to let everyone know that there is an HPV hotline that I came across before I found this website...they are extremely nice, anonymous and can answer any scientific quetions you may have. 2-6 pm eastern time, not toll free but worth the call if you first write out all your questions. 919-361-4848. The HPV National Line
Everybody will be in my prayers. And please let me know how your results come out Idn and iggie3. Please keep us updated ymguerrero..I'm so glad you have your boyfreind. As long as you have somebody to be there for you. I can't advise you to tell your parents when i haven't even told mine (I'm 24). ANd I will let you know tomorrow of my results.
iggie3
07-13-2003, 04:36 PM
Meli.,
You are an incredible resource for information and encouragement. I read somewhere that you can face your fears sometimes if you imagine the worst, and usually, it's either not really that bad, or highly unlikely. In this case, I just cant face it. But, I know you are right, one day at a time.
AND PS. this web site is amzaing. I didnt even think about my throat hurting. But I can relate!
You are an incredible resource for information and encouragement. I read somewhere that you can face your fears sometimes if you imagine the worst, and usually, it's either not really that bad, or highly unlikely. In this case, I just cant face it. But, I know you are right, one day at a time.
AND PS. this web site is amzaing. I didnt even think about my throat hurting. But I can relate!
ymguerrero
07-15-2003, 12:04 PM
Thanks so much to everyone that has responded to me and telling me their expierences. I get my leep done next Wed. I am so afraid of the outcome of it. To Julie..I swear your story sounds exactly like mine. I just lost my virginity exactly last July...and look how much it has progressed...moderate to Severe I wonder if that means that my strain of HPV is strong. What if mine keeps coming back!!! Anyways wish everyone the best
~Meli
07-17-2003, 01:30 AM
Hello Everyone!!!
So sorry to keep everyone waiting!! GOOD NEWS!! My pap came back normal!! I am so excited. I was supposed to get my results last Thurs. but they did arrive yesterday. When my doc finally called me to tell me, I was at work and just started crying right in front of everybody. I was so happy and relieved that I had to cry! I have been on pins and needles for days!
To iggie3, please don't ever hesitate to ask a question. If I don't know then maybe someone else will read it and respond. My understanding is that it doesn't matter if you have CIN I, II, or III...as long as it hasn't progressed to invasive cancer, you can successfully remove all the bad cells and have the same chances of it not returning. I think once you remove those cells (if you have clear margins), you start with a "clean slate" and for it to come back you will have to go through the same 3 stages again. So like I said before, if you continue to have a pap every 3 mos. and you stay healthy then you will most definitely catch it before it becomes invasive cancer. And that's the real issue here. Invasive cancer may not be easily treatable while CIN of any stage typically is. So, CIN I or CIN III, your success for treating (removing) the precancerous cells (I think) are the same. Since the treatment is removal, that would make sense to me. Now if you are asking what the chances are that it will return..that's a different question.
I worked about 14 hours today so I'm going to bed!! But I hope to hear good results from EVERYONE soon - I will check tomorrow!
So sorry to keep everyone waiting!! GOOD NEWS!! My pap came back normal!! I am so excited. I was supposed to get my results last Thurs. but they did arrive yesterday. When my doc finally called me to tell me, I was at work and just started crying right in front of everybody. I was so happy and relieved that I had to cry! I have been on pins and needles for days!
To iggie3, please don't ever hesitate to ask a question. If I don't know then maybe someone else will read it and respond. My understanding is that it doesn't matter if you have CIN I, II, or III...as long as it hasn't progressed to invasive cancer, you can successfully remove all the bad cells and have the same chances of it not returning. I think once you remove those cells (if you have clear margins), you start with a "clean slate" and for it to come back you will have to go through the same 3 stages again. So like I said before, if you continue to have a pap every 3 mos. and you stay healthy then you will most definitely catch it before it becomes invasive cancer. And that's the real issue here. Invasive cancer may not be easily treatable while CIN of any stage typically is. So, CIN I or CIN III, your success for treating (removing) the precancerous cells (I think) are the same. Since the treatment is removal, that would make sense to me. Now if you are asking what the chances are that it will return..that's a different question.
I worked about 14 hours today so I'm going to bed!! But I hope to hear good results from EVERYONE soon - I will check tomorrow!
~Meli
07-17-2003, 01:33 AM
I just read what I wrote and I make no sense!
I will respond tomorrow after I've had some sleep!!! Sorry!
I will respond tomorrow after I've had some sleep!!! Sorry!
iggie3
07-17-2003, 08:49 AM
Meli,
Thrilled to hear your news. I think I would cry too. I am still on pins and needles. I am supposed to hear by Friday, and my mood seems to get progressivley worse as the day nears. I am even trying to buy a house and have actually extended the option period until I get this news. My kids dont know what to think. The support from this board really helps, so we need to hang in there together.
Thanks
ps. dont work so hard!
Thrilled to hear your news. I think I would cry too. I am still on pins and needles. I am supposed to hear by Friday, and my mood seems to get progressivley worse as the day nears. I am even trying to buy a house and have actually extended the option period until I get this news. My kids dont know what to think. The support from this board really helps, so we need to hang in there together.
Thanks
ps. dont work so hard!
ymguerrero
07-17-2003, 11:59 AM
dear meli...
im happy to hear your news. my leep is onwed and i can only hope for the same results. i think i have cin 111 and am worried about it returning. thanks for the support and good news. you are one of those stories that makes me feel that there is a chance everything might be o.k. By the way after you had your leep...how long after did you go for a pap to see if your pap was normal??
im happy to hear your news. my leep is onwed and i can only hope for the same results. i think i have cin 111 and am worried about it returning. thanks for the support and good news. you are one of those stories that makes me feel that there is a chance everything might be o.k. By the way after you had your leep...how long after did you go for a pap to see if your pap was normal??
~Meli
07-17-2003, 06:10 PM
Thanks so much ymguerrero!
I hope my results DO give everyone out there some hope! I went EXACTLY 3 months after my procedure. He wanted to schedule me 3 months after my first follow-up which would have been about 3 and a half mos. after the actual procedure but I couldn't wait! He wants to see me for a pap every 3 mos. for the first 2 years and then every 6 mos. for another 3 years. If all are normal, I go back to annuals! I pray that's the case for me and everybody else.
Good luck and don't worry ymguerrero...I was so releived that those bad cells were out of my body that I immediately felt better after the procedure. IMMEDIATELY! You will be in my thoughts..I know it's easy for me to say AFTER I've had mine done.
I'm sorry about the message yesterday - I have been working so hard...I will respond when I get home!
Iggie3 PLEASE let me know how your results turn out...I was thinking about you this morning and a couple times throughout the day...everything will be not fine but PERFECT!
Thanks to everyone for your support and encouragement! I am so glad I have you to talk to!
~Mel
I hope my results DO give everyone out there some hope! I went EXACTLY 3 months after my procedure. He wanted to schedule me 3 months after my first follow-up which would have been about 3 and a half mos. after the actual procedure but I couldn't wait! He wants to see me for a pap every 3 mos. for the first 2 years and then every 6 mos. for another 3 years. If all are normal, I go back to annuals! I pray that's the case for me and everybody else.
Good luck and don't worry ymguerrero...I was so releived that those bad cells were out of my body that I immediately felt better after the procedure. IMMEDIATELY! You will be in my thoughts..I know it's easy for me to say AFTER I've had mine done.
I'm sorry about the message yesterday - I have been working so hard...I will respond when I get home!
Iggie3 PLEASE let me know how your results turn out...I was thinking about you this morning and a couple times throughout the day...everything will be not fine but PERFECT!
Thanks to everyone for your support and encouragement! I am so glad I have you to talk to!
~Mel
iggie3
07-18-2003, 09:11 AM
Dear Meli, and YMGUERRERO, and anyone else.
Finally got my results yesterday and everything is GOOD!!! I cried too, just completely overwhelmed. I called everyone I knew to share my good news. (It was kind of weird because my father also called that day, and he knew nothing about it. I couldnt tell him how great the day really was) Anyway, just like Meli, I feel great to be healthy again. Excited to move on with my life. To everyone else out there on "pins and needles". I think waiting through that week was about the hardest thing I had to do. You all will contniue to be in my thoughts and prayers. You are ALL doing a great job, by taking care of yourselves. Keep it up!
Finally got my results yesterday and everything is GOOD!!! I cried too, just completely overwhelmed. I called everyone I knew to share my good news. (It was kind of weird because my father also called that day, and he knew nothing about it. I couldnt tell him how great the day really was) Anyway, just like Meli, I feel great to be healthy again. Excited to move on with my life. To everyone else out there on "pins and needles". I think waiting through that week was about the hardest thing I had to do. You all will contniue to be in my thoughts and prayers. You are ALL doing a great job, by taking care of yourselves. Keep it up!
ymguerrero
07-18-2003, 12:07 PM
to iggie...
im so happy for both you and meli. i cant imagine the feeling you have after going through so much. i wish you both the best in the future. hopefully the problem is taken care of and everything is fine. i will update both of you after my leep on the 23rd. ill let you know how my expierence was with that. then i guess its waiting time on pins and needles. take care god bless
im so happy for both you and meli. i cant imagine the feeling you have after going through so much. i wish you both the best in the future. hopefully the problem is taken care of and everything is fine. i will update both of you after my leep on the 23rd. ill let you know how my expierence was with that. then i guess its waiting time on pins and needles. take care god bless
ymguerrero
07-18-2003, 12:08 PM
to iggie...
im so happy for both you and meli. i cant imagine the feeling you have after going through so much. i wish you both the best in the future. hopefully the problem is taken care of and everything is fine. i will update both of you after my leep on the 23rd. ill let you know how my expierence was with that. then i guess its waiting time on pins and needles. take care god bless
im so happy for both you and meli. i cant imagine the feeling you have after going through so much. i wish you both the best in the future. hopefully the problem is taken care of and everything is fine. i will update both of you after my leep on the 23rd. ill let you know how my expierence was with that. then i guess its waiting time on pins and needles. take care god bless
~Meli
07-20-2003, 01:14 AM
Iggie3..........
Congratulations. I can't stop smiling! I am sooo happy for you. I think know you can appreciate the "one day at a time" comment! That's all we can do from here on out! I can't tell you how amazing I think it is, i don't know you or anybody else on this site but getting news like this from someone out there going through the exact same thing I am going through is wonderful! Thanks for the update.
Ymguerrero, you are next in my thoughts and prayers! Everything is going to fine! You will feel such a relief after you just get these cells OUT!! GONE!!
Please let us know as soon as you feel up to it. Try to go in with a positive attitude and it won't be so bad - think, this removal is a beginning of a clean slate.
Good luck and I hope to hear from you soon.
Have a great weekend iggie3!!!!
Congratulations. I can't stop smiling! I am sooo happy for you. I think know you can appreciate the "one day at a time" comment! That's all we can do from here on out! I can't tell you how amazing I think it is, i don't know you or anybody else on this site but getting news like this from someone out there going through the exact same thing I am going through is wonderful! Thanks for the update.
Ymguerrero, you are next in my thoughts and prayers! Everything is going to fine! You will feel such a relief after you just get these cells OUT!! GONE!!
Please let us know as soon as you feel up to it. Try to go in with a positive attitude and it won't be so bad - think, this removal is a beginning of a clean slate.
Good luck and I hope to hear from you soon.
Have a great weekend iggie3!!!!
ymguerrero
07-21-2003, 12:20 PM
TO MELI
THANKS FOR THE SUPPRT..I CRIED MYSELF TO SLEEP LAST NIGHT!! MY EYES ARE SO PUFFY. i CANT EVEN SEE!! IM SO SCARED.IM TRYING TO HAVE A GOOD ATTITUDE ABOUT THIS BUT IM SCARED OF THE OUTCOME OR THE PAIN! I WILL DEFINTELY UPDATE YOU BOTH AND THURSDAY MORNING. ILL BE BACK TO WORK. HONESTLY...DO YOU THINK I CAN GET AWAY WITH MY MOM NOT KNOWING...IS THE LEEP TAKE THAT EFFECT ON YOU WERE YOU LOOK LIKE SOMETHING IS WRONG? IM HAVING MINE AT 9.00 AM AND IM NOT GOING HOME TILL LIKE 5.00PM THANKS SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING...
THANKS FOR THE SUPPRT..I CRIED MYSELF TO SLEEP LAST NIGHT!! MY EYES ARE SO PUFFY. i CANT EVEN SEE!! IM SO SCARED.IM TRYING TO HAVE A GOOD ATTITUDE ABOUT THIS BUT IM SCARED OF THE OUTCOME OR THE PAIN! I WILL DEFINTELY UPDATE YOU BOTH AND THURSDAY MORNING. ILL BE BACK TO WORK. HONESTLY...DO YOU THINK I CAN GET AWAY WITH MY MOM NOT KNOWING...IS THE LEEP TAKE THAT EFFECT ON YOU WERE YOU LOOK LIKE SOMETHING IS WRONG? IM HAVING MINE AT 9.00 AM AND IM NOT GOING HOME TILL LIKE 5.00PM THANKS SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING...
iggie3
07-22-2003, 08:24 AM
Dear YMGUERRERO,
Hang in there!!!! I promise you WILL feel better when it's done. Is someone going to be with you? I dont think your doctor will let you go home alone. Please, try to focus on the fact that you are doing the right thing. There are alot of people behind you. I will be thinking of you too. Be strong.
Hang in there!!!! I promise you WILL feel better when it's done. Is someone going to be with you? I dont think your doctor will let you go home alone. Please, try to focus on the fact that you are doing the right thing. There are alot of people behind you. I will be thinking of you too. Be strong.
ymguerrero
07-22-2003, 12:30 PM
IGGIE:
HEY YES MY GIRLFRIEND AND BOYFRIEND WILL BE WITH ME. IM PLANNING ON STAYING AT MY BOYFRIENDS FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS THEN GOING HOME. HOPEFULLY I WONT BE TOO CRAMPY. ANYWAYS ILL WILL DEFINITELY UPDATE YOU ON EVERYTHING. THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT EVEN THOUGH YOUR MILES AWAY BUT THANK YOU....
HEY YES MY GIRLFRIEND AND BOYFRIEND WILL BE WITH ME. IM PLANNING ON STAYING AT MY BOYFRIENDS FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS THEN GOING HOME. HOPEFULLY I WONT BE TOO CRAMPY. ANYWAYS ILL WILL DEFINITELY UPDATE YOU ON EVERYTHING. THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT EVEN THOUGH YOUR MILES AWAY BUT THANK YOU....
~Meli
07-23-2003, 07:54 PM
I am so upset that I'm just checking in...I'm so sorry ym that you were so worried. If I had know I would have called or tried to encourage you that everything will be fine. By now it should all be over with - and I know that your procedure went well.
PLEASE let us know whenever you feel up to it.
I hope to hear good news on the "pain factor" and good news in a week when they check your margins.
Like iggie said, hang in there...it's almost all over.
I know it's a little late to respond to your question but looking back, I could have gone through the procedure without anyone noticing but my pain was so very minor. The ibuprofen worked great and I didn't have much cramping. Everybody is different though.
Be strong and think of us and how we made it with good results everytime you get done or scared!
~Mel
PLEASE let us know whenever you feel up to it.
I hope to hear good news on the "pain factor" and good news in a week when they check your margins.
Like iggie said, hang in there...it's almost all over.
I know it's a little late to respond to your question but looking back, I could have gone through the procedure without anyone noticing but my pain was so very minor. The ibuprofen worked great and I didn't have much cramping. Everybody is different though.
Be strong and think of us and how we made it with good results everytime you get done or scared!
~Mel
~Meli
07-23-2003, 08:02 PM
BTW - where so you work...returning Thurs is probably too soon even if your job is mostly sitting. I have to say that I don't think that's a good idea. Maybe you could spend the day at a freind's house relaxing or I should say healing!
oceanbreeze
07-24-2003, 01:31 AM
Hey Everyone! Glad to see a site dedicated to this particular topic. It is interesting to hear how so many of you talk about cervical dysplasia as an S.T.D when in actuality it is a form of "virus" that doctors and scientist have not yet determined the exact cause of. I have never smoked a day in my life, have not had many sexual partners, and did not have sex THAT young! I was diagnosed with Severe Dysplasia (Stage III) last month from an abnormal pap smear and was told that I had a group of dark cells(lesion) that were most likely pre-cancerous but definitely curable and nothing to worry about. For 3 weeks I had to wait to get my coloscopy results back. Talk about a stressful time to wait!!! Turns out I had to have the LEEP proceedure done and I was able to have "day surgery" 5 days later!!!! I was pleased to find out I could have it done and over with so soon. It has been 2 weeks and 3 days since my lazer proceedure and I am feeling great yet the bleeding has not stopped. I had it done at the hospital in the operating room and I was "out" completely, I could not imagine it any other way. I had no idea what was going on. I awoke half an hour later and in total was at the hospital for only 1 hour and 15 minutes start to finish. I experienced no pain or bleeding just discharge for the first week and then I got my period a week later and since then have not stopped bleeding. I know that the bleeding is not from my period, I guess it just took awhile longer for the bleeding to start in my case. I see the doctor next week for a check up , I don't know what he will do but I hope it will not be painful. How will they know if they got it all this soon anyway My husband and I were planning on starting a family this month but I guess it will have to wait another month at least.
~Meli
07-24-2003, 10:44 AM
Hello Oceanbreeze
I'm so glad that your procedure went so well for you. Your expereince was much like mine...little pain, in hospital and no bleeding until my period. I wanted to comment on the STD part. I'm sure you know that STD just stands for a disease that is transmitted sexually. Yes, this is cuased by a virus but it's thought to typically be transmitted sexually. I have read that if a male who is carrying the virus somehow gets skin cells on his hands/fingers (I'm sure you can see how easy that would be) and then touches/inserts his fingers into a woman, that may be one form of transmission that is not exactly sexual intercourse. It would take ALOT of virus particles to be on his hand, however, to cause "the disease" in the woman becuase our bodies are cabale of fighting off small amounts.
This is how I've learned it ...I'm curious to know what your doctor told you other than it's caused by a virus of unknown cause. I find that pretty amazing. There is a virology book that I read published in 1994 that states HPV to be the #1 cause of cervical dysplasia in women.
Medical Virology, 4th ed. by David O White
Hope to hear from you soon!
I'm so glad that your procedure went so well for you. Your expereince was much like mine...little pain, in hospital and no bleeding until my period. I wanted to comment on the STD part. I'm sure you know that STD just stands for a disease that is transmitted sexually. Yes, this is cuased by a virus but it's thought to typically be transmitted sexually. I have read that if a male who is carrying the virus somehow gets skin cells on his hands/fingers (I'm sure you can see how easy that would be) and then touches/inserts his fingers into a woman, that may be one form of transmission that is not exactly sexual intercourse. It would take ALOT of virus particles to be on his hand, however, to cause "the disease" in the woman becuase our bodies are cabale of fighting off small amounts.
This is how I've learned it ...I'm curious to know what your doctor told you other than it's caused by a virus of unknown cause. I find that pretty amazing. There is a virology book that I read published in 1994 that states HPV to be the #1 cause of cervical dysplasia in women.
Medical Virology, 4th ed. by David O White
Hope to hear from you soon!
oceanbreeze
07-24-2003, 01:04 PM
Hi Meli,
It is interesting to read so many research articles on this particular subject on the web, many of which are inconsistent with each other. You are completely right about it not having to be spread always by sexual intercourse and from what I have read HpV is still in the early stages of defining and that most doctors say it is too early to say what the exact connection between cervical cancer and sexual behaviour is. My doctor did say that HPV is a virus that has more than 70 different subtypes, 24 of which cause genital infections. Of the 24 subtypes that cause genital infection, types 16 and 18 are most likely to trigger cervical dysplasia by infecting cervical cells.This has yet to be confirmed. This information was from the "American Medical Association", my doctor wrote the article. An article from "Always Your choice" claimed that dysplasia is not sexually transmitted but that certain sexual behaviours are thought to increase the risk factor? (maybe this was not a reputable source?)I also read that if you have taken oral contraceptives for more then 5 consecutive years that this was a risk factor in developing cervical dysplasia? I myself had taken the pill for 13 years straight and do not doubt this impossible. I guess the most important thing is that it is detected early on and it is amazing the capablities of lazer technology today. I wish everyone the best of health!
It is interesting to read so many research articles on this particular subject on the web, many of which are inconsistent with each other. You are completely right about it not having to be spread always by sexual intercourse and from what I have read HpV is still in the early stages of defining and that most doctors say it is too early to say what the exact connection between cervical cancer and sexual behaviour is. My doctor did say that HPV is a virus that has more than 70 different subtypes, 24 of which cause genital infections. Of the 24 subtypes that cause genital infection, types 16 and 18 are most likely to trigger cervical dysplasia by infecting cervical cells.This has yet to be confirmed. This information was from the "American Medical Association", my doctor wrote the article. An article from "Always Your choice" claimed that dysplasia is not sexually transmitted but that certain sexual behaviours are thought to increase the risk factor? (maybe this was not a reputable source?)I also read that if you have taken oral contraceptives for more then 5 consecutive years that this was a risk factor in developing cervical dysplasia? I myself had taken the pill for 13 years straight and do not doubt this impossible. I guess the most important thing is that it is detected early on and it is amazing the capablities of lazer technology today. I wish everyone the best of health!
ymguerrero
07-24-2003, 01:24 PM
MELI, IGGIE
ITS OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY LEEP WAS GREAT. YES IT WAS GREAT. NO PAIN AT ALL. MY DOCTOR WAS FINE. ALL THEY GAVE ME WAS LOCAL ANESTHESIA. THE SHOTS I DID NOT FEEL AT ALL. IT WAS FAST.IM GLAD ITS OVER. I GO BACK ON AUG 13TH FOR THE PATHOLOGY REPORT. AND THEN IF THE MARGINS ARE CLEAR THEN I GO BACK IN 4 MONTHS. ANYWAYS THANKS FOR EVERYONES SUPPORT BUT I STILL HAVE A BATTLE WITH THIS. THIS IS JUST THE FIRST STEP. I HAVE ONE QUESTION THOUGH...ARE YOU SUPPOSE TO USE CONDOMS WITH YOUR PARTNER NOW?? OBVIOUSLY YOUR PARTNER HAS IT..SO ARE CHANCES GREATER OF COMING BACK IF YOU DONT USE CONDOMS. MY DOCTOR SAYS SHE RECOMMENDED IT..BUT I WAS JUST WONDERING....THANKS
ITS OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MY LEEP WAS GREAT. YES IT WAS GREAT. NO PAIN AT ALL. MY DOCTOR WAS FINE. ALL THEY GAVE ME WAS LOCAL ANESTHESIA. THE SHOTS I DID NOT FEEL AT ALL. IT WAS FAST.IM GLAD ITS OVER. I GO BACK ON AUG 13TH FOR THE PATHOLOGY REPORT. AND THEN IF THE MARGINS ARE CLEAR THEN I GO BACK IN 4 MONTHS. ANYWAYS THANKS FOR EVERYONES SUPPORT BUT I STILL HAVE A BATTLE WITH THIS. THIS IS JUST THE FIRST STEP. I HAVE ONE QUESTION THOUGH...ARE YOU SUPPOSE TO USE CONDOMS WITH YOUR PARTNER NOW?? OBVIOUSLY YOUR PARTNER HAS IT..SO ARE CHANCES GREATER OF COMING BACK IF YOU DONT USE CONDOMS. MY DOCTOR SAYS SHE RECOMMENDED IT..BUT I WAS JUST WONDERING....THANKS
PaNik5717
07-24-2003, 07:31 PM
Hello everyone! I have been having tons of health issues - you can see my posts all over this board - and lots of anxiety about it all. I have been bleeding all month so I saw my doc today. Unfortunately, the bleeding stopped while I was there, but it did give him a clear view of my cervix and he said it looks like it has healed really well. Still too soon for the follow-up pap, but just knowing that it looks good and it isn't the source of my bleeding is nice.
As for all of the talk about HPV, I still think there can be other causes for changes in cervical tissue. If you haven't had a digene or some other tests that says that you have at least one strain of it, don't assume that you do. And please protect yourself. Even if you do have it - do you want something else? Do you want to pass this on to others through your current partner? I know that's a tough thought, but relationships are pretty fragile these days. And, don't forget to look at the STD's forum. There is a lot about HPV there and in the women's health one, too.
As for all of the talk about HPV, I still think there can be other causes for changes in cervical tissue. If you haven't had a digene or some other tests that says that you have at least one strain of it, don't assume that you do. And please protect yourself. Even if you do have it - do you want something else? Do you want to pass this on to others through your current partner? I know that's a tough thought, but relationships are pretty fragile these days. And, don't forget to look at the STD's forum. There is a lot about HPV there and in the women's health one, too.
oceanbreeze
07-24-2003, 11:38 PM
I do have a question for all of you. How long and how heavy is the bleeding after the proceedure? It has been almost 3 weeks for me and I have not stopped bleeding yet and it is very very heavy. I must change pads every 2-3 hours!!!!!Would standing on my feet working 8 hours a day make it worse? Today was the worst day ever! I don't see it getting any better. I have to see the doctor next week and what happens if I am still bleeding? My doctor said I would experience spotting, this is not your ordinary spotting!!!
~Meli
07-25-2003, 12:12 AM
I'm sooo happy for you ym..I know you feel a lot better now that the cells are out!! I don't know where you work but I think you should try to take it easy tomorrow. (I think you said you went back yesterday??) Anyways, please let us know that your margins are clear when you hear.
oceanbreeze, I'm pretty sure that it's possible to have dysplasia w/o having the virus...there are many ways for cells to become cancerous w/o being provoked but I do think those cases are in general pretty rare (%5) so we should all just get tested and know once and for all. I'm making it my goal to be tested w/i the next mo. I think I explained my view on this in a message to iggie once before ...the "risk factors" that you are referring to I think are ANYTHING that can effectively reduce your immunity to viruses, such as smoking. Not that smoking causes it but that if you transmit HPV you are less likely to fight it off. Ummm, what else...oh, and the thing about becoming sexually active at a young age I think has to do with development. Girls at say age 13 or 14 haven't fully developed and sexual intercourse can be very traumatizing so I think that can cause damage that may be irreversible and that slowly progresses to precancerous cells over the years?? Not sure on that one. I hope others respond to you as well but to let you know, I didn't start bleeding until my period but it continued more than spotting but less than period for like 4 weeks!
SandyinFL...what kind of natural therapy...Beta-manna?
PaNik5717...I hope everything is okay with you. Please post an update if you can.
Good Night Everyone!!
oceanbreeze, I'm pretty sure that it's possible to have dysplasia w/o having the virus...there are many ways for cells to become cancerous w/o being provoked but I do think those cases are in general pretty rare (%5) so we should all just get tested and know once and for all. I'm making it my goal to be tested w/i the next mo. I think I explained my view on this in a message to iggie once before ...the "risk factors" that you are referring to I think are ANYTHING that can effectively reduce your immunity to viruses, such as smoking. Not that smoking causes it but that if you transmit HPV you are less likely to fight it off. Ummm, what else...oh, and the thing about becoming sexually active at a young age I think has to do with development. Girls at say age 13 or 14 haven't fully developed and sexual intercourse can be very traumatizing so I think that can cause damage that may be irreversible and that slowly progresses to precancerous cells over the years?? Not sure on that one. I hope others respond to you as well but to let you know, I didn't start bleeding until my period but it continued more than spotting but less than period for like 4 weeks!
SandyinFL...what kind of natural therapy...Beta-manna?
PaNik5717...I hope everything is okay with you. Please post an update if you can.
Good Night Everyone!!
~Meli
07-25-2003, 12:13 AM
Not yesterday ym...today. Sorry
PaNik5717
07-25-2003, 08:00 PM
Oceanbreeze: It seems like every woman is different, but a lot of us had less bleeding with this than with the colpo. I didn't bleed until my follow-up when the doc aggravated the area by putting something on it to help it heal. What I am trying to say is that it doesn't seem to be normal to still be bleeding after three weeks.
Don't worry about bleeding when you see your doc. Sometimes it is better and they don't mind. Think of what they see during a delivery and I am sure there are other things that are even worse to see. Yesterday, I wanted to bleed for my doc so he could see exactly what I am going through and my adrenaline seemed to stop it. Now, I just went through one pad in an hour and got blood all over my computer chair. If he could have seen that, he would have done something for me!
Maybe you should call your doc or the nurse ahead of time if this is really bothersome for you.
Don't worry about bleeding when you see your doc. Sometimes it is better and they don't mind. Think of what they see during a delivery and I am sure there are other things that are even worse to see. Yesterday, I wanted to bleed for my doc so he could see exactly what I am going through and my adrenaline seemed to stop it. Now, I just went through one pad in an hour and got blood all over my computer chair. If he could have seen that, he would have done something for me!
Maybe you should call your doc or the nurse ahead of time if this is really bothersome for you.
ymguerrero
07-31-2003, 07:06 PM
hey everyone i just had my leep on the 23rd...but i have light blood everyday and it is foul smelling...how much blood is normal daily...do i need to see a doctor right away?
Reze
09-03-2003, 03:07 AM
Hello to one and all! I am very glad to have found this website. I thought I was losing my mind or had developed an anxiety disorder judging by the way I was reacting to my doctor's news! I am sorry that anyone else has to know this sort of fear, but am grateful that worry and fear are a common reaction. It really is the "not knowing" that can get to you, eh? I just had my annual PAP about 6 weeks ago and it came back as CIN 2 and 3 I believe. I had the Colpo, which was a breeze, only minor cramping...and I do mean minor, I have had periods that hurt much more. The results were back in just 2 days....BENIGN! I was excited until the nurse informed me that since the 2 tests differed so greatly they wanted to do a LEEP. DRAT and DOUBLE DRAT! They are going for 2 out of 3 I suppose. I am/was quite nervous about the LEEP and the possible results, but after reading the stories on this site I am much calmer. Women need to thank God for other women! Together we are so strong! I get my LEEP on September 4th, right around the corner. I'll be sure to let everyone know what the experience is like and ofcourse the results as soon as I get them. My best advice at this point for others facing a LEEP is to be patient, it is in God's hands. Whatever your situation, it is all ready what it is going to be, worrying excessively will not help.....as I have learned the hard way. You'll only drive yourself nuts. Meditate, pray, do what you can to relax and boost your immune system. If you can't regain your concentration, call your doctor and ask for help. I did! They gave me Xanax and I am here to tell you a little Xanax goes a long way! LOL It's very helpful, but you can't medicate yourself 24/7, so once you get your feet back under you, go back to meditation &/or praying. One last thing.....remember what a treatable thing this is, the odds are with us!
Best and Warmest Wishes to All, Reze
PS: Send me all your positive vibes on the 4th for my LEEP!
Best and Warmest Wishes to All, Reze
PS: Send me all your positive vibes on the 4th for my LEEP!
Reze
09-07-2003, 10:54 PM
Just following up. I had the LEEP...GREAT FUN! Seriously, It was uncomfortable, but tolerable. The shots were the worst part, but coughing helped. I had some pretty good cramps during and after, but as of today I feel great. The procedure was very quick, 10 minutes tops. All in all, not too bad of an experience, however, I sure wouldn't want to do it again.
TIPS: Remember ladies, if you are going in for a LEEP take your pain meds in advance (I waited too long and may have had even less pain if I would have taken my medicine sooner)and be sure to ask your doctor to let you cough when they are doing the injections...the difference is AMAZING!
Good luck to all....I'll post my results as soon as I get them!
God Bless,
Reze
TIPS: Remember ladies, if you are going in for a LEEP take your pain meds in advance (I waited too long and may have had even less pain if I would have taken my medicine sooner)and be sure to ask your doctor to let you cough when they are doing the injections...the difference is AMAZING!
Good luck to all....I'll post my results as soon as I get them!
God Bless,
Reze