Putting it out their

[Lovemycats79]

Hi everyone, Feeling a little fed up

I had vulva cancer in 2010, had surgery to remove the tumour and a high dose of radiation treatment on the front but it also affected the back passage. 2018 had a hysterectomy due to long term adamyosis and when they operated, my tisses were stuck together, fallopian tubes blocked (cant have children) and the bowel and uterus had stuck together. I had no problems in my bowels for years but in 2019 began my issues, pain in the rectum inside and out, pain going toilet, bowel leakage, just a nightmare. Had many tests/scans and eventually have recently been referred to the late affects GI team and they have stated its damage from the radiation. I struggle to exercise because of the pain/leakage it induces. Also am uncomfortable daily, the stress of it gets a bit much and am in a stressful job which is not helping. What do you do to cope? Exercises? How do people cope with work as its not something I can broadcast but it's really grating on me now and becoming more difficult to manage. In England and 45 yrs old.

[BlueButterfly4]

Hi lovemycats79, I was medically retired due to such problems (radiation enteritis, radiation cystitis as well as bowel obstructions). I had to take a lot of time off work which wasn't fair to me or my employer. Fortunately I was retired with a full pension (I'm 44). I too cannot exercise but I do try to go for a walk when I'm feeling up to it. However, I don't beat myself up about it when I don't have the energy. Is it the pain that makes you feel uncomfortable or the possibility of bowel leakage? I take 900mg of gabapentin daily to help with the everyday nerve pain and codeine (30mg 4xdaily) helps somewhat with the bowel leakage. I usually just take the codeine when I know I have to leave the house. I also take tramadol as and when needed. The absolute best thing I have found though is CBD and THC oil. I have this prescribed via Curaleaf. It has been a game changer for me. However it is very expensive but to me worth every penny. I have met a few ladies through PRDA and that too has been invaluable. We are in touch daily via what's app which is amazing. I think it helps us all cope with such a crappy situation. It's so good to know we are not alone and that there are others who understand the pain and what you are going through on a daily basis. Sending lots of love to you, xxxx