angela15517 - Thank you for writing and seeking help for your health concerns. It is impossible for us to give you a diagnosis and tell you whether or not you have cancer, but it is clear from your comments that you have irregular periods and a health history that puts you at high risk for cervical cancer.
Irregular periods are not a symptom that's commonly associated with cervical cancer, which is one of the most treatable cancers when it is found early. Symptoms usually do not appear until the abnormal cells become cancerous. They invade nearby tissue. When this happens, the most common symptom is abnormal bleeding, which may include:
* Bleeding between regular menstrual periods
* Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam (most common)
* Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer and is heavier than usual
* Vaginal bleeding after menopause
* Increased vaginal discharge that is not blood
You need to be seen by a doctor and it would be in your best interests to have both a pap test and HPV test. Some doctors will treat cash basis patients on a sliding fee scale. Otherwise you may want to see if their is a Planned Parenthood service in your community or explore free clinics at this link: http://www.freeclinics.us/freeclinic.php
I realize the lack of insurance coverage is an issue, but losing one's health is a far more profound and costly issue, and you really need to follow up on this. Please let us know what you do, and we wish you the best possible outcome.
Pat
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angela15517 - Thank you for writing and seeking help for your health concerns. It is impossible for us to give you a diagnosis and tell you whether or not you have cancer, but it is clear from your comments that you have irregular periods and a health history that puts you at high risk for cervical cancer.
Irregular periods are not a symptom that's commonly associated with cervical cancer, which is one of the most treatable cancers when it is found early. Symptoms usually do not appear until the abnormal cells become cancerous. They invade nearby tissue. When this happens, the most common symptom is abnormal bleeding, which may include:
* Bleeding between regular menstrual periods
* Bleeding after sexual intercourse, douching, or a pelvic exam (most common)
* Menstrual bleeding that lasts longer and is heavier than usual
* Vaginal bleeding after menopause
* Increased vaginal discharge that is not blood
You need to be seen by a doctor and it would be in your best interests to have both a pap test and HPV test. Some doctors will treat cash basis patients on a sliding fee scale. Otherwise you may want to see if their is a Planned Parenthood service in your community or explore free clinics at this link: http://www.freeclinics.us/freeclinic.php
I realize the lack of insurance coverage is an issue, but losing one's health is a far more profound and costly issue, and you really need to follow up on this. Please let us know what you do, and we wish you the best possible outcome.
November 8, 2010 - 5:00pmPat
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