How do you survive the limbo?

[Grey_green]

I feel like I’m spiralling. I saw the gp a couple of weeks ago for constant period type pain on my right side (really low down in my abdomen almost under my hip), back pain which wakes me throughout the night on the same side and needing to wee more urgently. I’m 36 so know I’m lower risk for ovarian cancer but he booked me in for bloods (to check ca125 amongst others) which were taken Tuesday, as well as an ultrasound appointment booked for 28th.

I know it’s ridiculous but I have a history of catastrophising and am driving myself insane waiting for results. Imagining the worst and that my two girls (8&4) will be left motherless.

Haven’t told anyone what they’re testing for as saying it out loud is just too scary. Any tips for keeping myself in check whilst in this limbo would be so welcome!

[Cockneyblue]

Hi Grey-green, although I’m a lot older than you, in fact 30 years older, I’ve just been through what you are going through. I had pain in my right side, I’ve had it on and off for about 6 years. My blood test showed my ca125 count was raised to 41, which apparently isn’t much to worry about, the normal being under 35. I was referred to gynaecologist very quickly as I heard from my dr within a week that my ca125 was raised. So hopefully you should hear in a few days the outcome of that. I had ultrasound on ovaries etc, thickening of the womb so had a hysteroscopy that found a benign polyp. I have been discharged back to my gp as all ok. It was a very worrying 4 weeks. What I am saying is, try not to worry. I know it seems impossible but the NHS is fantastic at rushing you through if they are really worried. I didn’t wait for appointments through the post they rang me straight away.

Your tummy goes over, you look for signs but please try to stay calm. My thoughts are with you and hope you’re results come through fine.

Best wishes

[Grey_green in reply to Cockneyblue]

Thanks for the reply cockneyblue, the rational part of me knows I am being way over the top, just couldn’t control myself last night! Told my husband today though so feel lighter for sharing. He has been through this mill too having been diagnosed with testicular cancer at 24 so knows where I’m coming from. Though saying it out loud was scary I do feel better for it.

So pleased you had a benign result and you’re on the road to pain free living now. The NHS are incredible aren’t they. We really are so lucky to have them.

Just need to distract myself for the next couple of weeks waiting for ultrasound and hope ca125 comes back normal in the meantime.

[Cockneyblue in reply to Grey_green]

Please keep us informed. I’m sure there are more knowledgeable people on here than me that can settle you.

Good luck, take care of yourself. 💐