This article shares a patient’s emotional journey from HPV diagnosis to cervical cancer treatment, highlighting the crucial role of regular screenings and the compassionate care of her colposcopy team.
What lead to your appointment?
I attended a smear test appointment following testing positive for Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) one year before and after examination, I was referred to be seen by a colposcopy team.
What was your experience visiting our department for appointments and follow-ups?
Dealing with a diagnosis of cancer, was extremely difficult and upsetting. I felt helpless and not in control. The appointments were the most important and a core part of my decision-making about my treatment.
I always felt cared for by my consultant and my nurse at all times, even outside the appointment time. The follow-up appointments were and are extremely reassuring and as important.
I attended the appointments with millions of questions with uncertainty. The team, always discussed all the possible options available to me and helped me with my decision making and next steps.
How did the team at Colposcopy make you feel?
From my first visit, I felt that I was getting all the support I needed. I was so emotional and scared and the team empathised with me, this was prior to the diagnosis of cancer.
I needed colposcopy results from the lab and the colposcopy team made sure that my results were back within 48 hours. I am extremely grateful for their support.
What is your message to women who are scared to come to screening appointments?
Cancer diagnosis is scary, but if detected early, women would have the best chance of successful treatment and best chance of survival.
Screening is so important as this is how cervical cancer can be detected.
I believe, it’s crucial for women to go to screening appointments which are quick and pain free. This will give you the peace of mind that you are cancer free.
Any tips for women?
Attend screening appointments on a regular basis.
How are you feeling now?
I am feeling great at the moment. It is coming up to one year since my diagnosis and I am extremely happy with the follow-up review appointments.