My mum died of ovarian cancer aged 52 and, as my nan had died in her 60s of breast cancer, I was given the opportunity to see a family geneticist. At the time I was 22 and she said I was too young for any type of screening and to come back when I was a bit older.
I'm now 27 and this week I had a bit of a scare. I think (I'm pretty sure actually) I'm fine but I've had quite a bit of stomach problems over the last week and, coupled with a dodgy hip, started scaring myself. I'm booked in to see my doctor about my hip and wondered whether I ought to ask to go back to the geneticist or whether it's still too early (I've read it doesn't start until 35). Does anyone know? I don't want to waste anyone's time but at the same time I don't want to be worrying.
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amylouwoo
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I am not quite sure what you mean about "it doesn't start until 35" but if you mean OC you can actually get OC at any age, but I don't want to worry you anymore than you are already,
I think it is a good idea to mention to your doctor your concerns and then you will get the necessary advice. There are people on here that have been for genetic testing so I've no doubt they will have more suggestions.
Sending you my best wishes and a very warm welcome to our community love x G x
Hi there....
You're obviously worried. I'd look at the BEAT symptom tracker which is on this site. Apparently, the results can be printed out so you can take it with you to your GP. Even if the results don't point to OV, you could, like Gwyn says, mention it to your doctor. There's no harm asking and if reassurance is what you get and you're happy with that, there would have been a point in following it through, wouldn't there? x x
Thanks Gwyn and Tina. Following your advice I think I will print it out and ask. Even if the doctor thinks I'm stupid at least I'll know I've asked. Really appreciate you replying
I think it's very sensible to be aware, to check out any worries, to find out the facts. Take a look at some of the fact sheets on the Ovacome website (ovacome.org.uk). They are under 'resources, I think. Welcome to our group of friends. All the best.
I presume you mean screening doesn't start until 35. I recently saw a genetic counsellor at Guy Hospital with my 28 year old daughter. She was told they won't do any screening until she is 30.
I definitely think you should discuss your worries with your doctor.
I can imagine how worried you must be. It's a cruel blow to lose your Mum so early to Ovarian Cancer. I'd imagine this experience has made you aware of the major symptoms of the disease and you'll also be aware that generally by the time many women experience significant symptoms the disease has progressed to a stage when it's difficult to manage.
I think you should definitely talk to your GP about the stomach problems you've had and that you're worried you may have a genetic predisposition to the disease. He/she should be made aware how you feel and how this is affecting your general health. They may be able to reassure you, and they may have some helpful advice for you to help you cope.
Hopefully the tummy problems will pass but it's still worth talking to the doctor about how they made you feel.
with love. xxx Annie
Agree with all the above, if in doubt always raise the issue, get your symptoms checked which are probably nothing but should be flagged - and certainly start your push to ensure doc is aware of the family background, as it may prove important later on. I do wish some kind of early screening were feasible but can kind of understand that they have to set some kind of level like 30+. Try not to worry though. Just take action, I suspect that alone will help you feel a bit better, and more in control!
I had genetic testing after my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. I do not carry the BRCA 1 or 2 genes (good news for my son & daughter) but, as a result I was part of the big study they have just announced the results of and I hope it has helped others. At your age genetic testing could give you probs with insurances etc. at 72 that is not a big issue for me! Sods law, however, dictated that I developed unconnected primary breast cancer last november and I have just completed treatment.
OC is currently dormant though I am getting some minor symptoms!
Off to Devon tomorrow for a week with my toyboys (aka grandsons)
Thanks everyone for your help, and for your kind messages.
Went to the doctor today and it's already flagged up on her computer that I need to go back to the geneticist in 2018 (when I'm 32). Told her my concerns and she was really nice. She said it doesn't sound like there's anything for me to worry about at the moment (which I already knew really) and that I should just keep an eye out for any symptoms.
Feel much better! And glad to know I'm already flagged up on the system
I also lost my mum to ovarian cancer, some ten years ago now but I still miss her so much and understand how you feel. After my diagnosis with OC last year I saw a genetic specialist and found out I have a faulty BRCA1 gene. I am much older than you, but just wanted to say that My understanding from the genetic team is that you can be tested at any age you choose, regardless of whether you are eligible for screening, so if you want to know, just ask to be referred to the genetics team now. They will offer you counselling before any testing so you can talk to them thoroughly about the implications of testing, and then make your decision.
Hi Amy, I was diagnosed with OvCa at age 41. Genetic testing revealed that my cancer is due to Lynch syndrome (high risk for bowel, endometrial, ovarian cancer etc). My sister who is 29 has recently received her results and she is also positive for Lynch. Her bowel cancer screening (colonoscopy) has already started and they will aso be arranging for a scan of her ovaries.
The genetic counsellor did say that once my sister's children reach 18 they can decide if they want to be tested. I don't know whether or not you have had any genetic testing done yet, but if not ...then you don't have to wait until 2018!
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