EMBARRASSMENT has been shown to increase the risk of gynaecological cancers because women put off visiting a doctor when they suspect symptoms.

Recent research has revealed the reluctance but as March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Grove House is encouraging all women to break down the wall of embarrassment surrounding gynaecological cancers and discuss their fears.

Almost 7,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the UK every year and the majority of cases occur in women over 50 but younger women can also contract the disease. Ovarian Cancer can sometimes be difficult to diagnose as some of the symptoms are similar to those seen in more common conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Many women mistakenly believe that cervical screening tests – sometimes known as smear tests – can help detect ovarian cancer. they cannot.

Typical symptoms of ovarian cancer to look out for are:

• Persistent pelvic and stomach pain;

• Increased abdominal size/persistent bloating – not bloating that comes and goes;

• Difficulty eating and feeling full quickly.

Occasionally other symptoms such as urinary symptoms, changes in bowel habit, extreme fatigue or back pain may also be experienced.

Joan Follett, nursing services manager at Grove House, said: “It is vital that women come forward and discuss their symptoms or worries about gynaecological cancers. Early diagnosis can significantly reduce risk, survival rates can be as high as 90 per cent for women diagnosed with early stage ovarian cancer.”

She explained: “Here at Grove House we can support women with ovarian cancer from diagnosis and throughout illness. Counselling is available as well as access to complementary therapies such as massage and reiki. Practical support can be given on a weekly basis by coming to the day hospice. Support at Grove House is not prescriptive, but tailored to individual needs.”

Sue was originally diagnosed with the disease in 2004 and went through several months of treatment. she used Grove House to help her stay strong and positive, throughout. Sue said of her experience: “I would certainly recommend anyone with ovarian cancer to give Grove House a call. they have time to talk; they can provide up-to-date and relevant information, not just about the disease itself but also about the help that is available. Getting out and staying positive is important and there is always something going on at the hospice. I found the yoga classes particularly helpful.”

If you are worried about cancer phone 01727 731000 or visit grove-house.org.uk

I get smears all the time because its so prominent in my family, but all my freinds have been so embarassed to go! daft!

One friend i managed to pursuade her to go get one done as she was complaining of pains and alot of extra discharge, she did go and has highly abnormal cells, thankfully she just got a colosopy ( excuse spelling ) and is fine now.

So i would just say be aware of any changes within yourself, any changes should be checked, and get smears, at least one a year if you have it in your family.

Unfortunately there arent really any. Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge can be a sign, but can happen for a number of reasons. Pain on having sex may indicate something but again can happen for numerous reasons. Abdominal swelling an discomfort is another thing, but you guessed it…there are many causes.

Well you need regular smear tests.

Some signs are lots of discharge and/or bleeding (though this can be a number of things), sharp pains during sex and period-like pains throughout the month, again, that could be due to anything, from small cysts to various cancers.

Ovarian cancer is a silent killer as the symptoms are very few -but you can be tested to see if you are likely to get it if it runs in the female side of your family.
Cervical cancer is quiet common and can be detected early by regular smear tests. you will get smelly discharge that is not clear sometimes but not always . Google Ovarian cancer or cervical cancer and you should get all the info you need.

ovarian cancer – bloating, change of bowel habit, needing to go for a wee more often, tummy pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss
first investigations = blood test and ultrasound scan.

cervical cancer = bleeding, possibly after sex. any of the above investigation = blood tests and smear test

womb cancer = any of the above
investigation = blood tests and hysteroscopy (requires anaesthetic)

have been to docs for sti and smear tests and results were clear however i am very much suffering from thrush, i cant think what else it could be, the white discharge and white coating in the mouth.

I tried canestan the pressary and cream however the sypmtoms have only been worse since. as dr. says they cant find anything wrong I dont know what else to do!! What will clear it up??

Its horrible please help. x x x x x x x x

prostitution is a rough business. You just have to deal with the consequences.