Follow up after vaginal cancer treatment
You usually have follow up appointments to check how you are and see whether you have any problems or worries. The appointments also give you the chance to raise any concerns you have about your progress.
What happens?
Your doctor or nurse specialist does an internal examination at each appointment. They also ask how you are feeling, whether you have had any symptoms or side effects, and if anything is worrying you. You might also have tests at some visits.
Tests might include:
- taking a sample of cells from your vagina
- blood tests
- x-rays
- ultrasound scan
- CT scan
- MRI scan
How often you have check ups
Your first follow up appointment will be within 6 weeks of completing treatment. Your check ups will continue for some years after your treatment.
Follow up appointments range between every 3 months to once a year. The time in between appointments increases the longer it has been since your treatment. It can vary from hospital to hospital.
How you might feel
Some people find their check ups quite worrying. A hospital appointment can bring back any anxiety you had about your cancer.
It can help to tell someone close to you how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can mean they don’t seem so overwhelming. Many people find it helpful to have counselling after cancer treatment.
For support and information, you can call the Cancer Research UK information nurses on freephone 0808 800 4040, from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. They can give advice about who can help you and what kind of support is available.
Between appointments
Contact your healthcare team if you have any concerns between appointments. You should also contact them if you notice any new symptoms. You don’t have to wait until your next visit.
