All gynecological cancer requires some form of surgical intervention. This is because a sample of tissue is always necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will review this sample with all members of the cancer care team tore recommending a treatment plan to you. The extent and impact of any further surgery will vary depending on the type of cancer. For instance, with cancer of the placenta, the surgery is usually suction curettage (‘D and C) to remove the placenta or ‘mole’. This is relatively non-invasive and does not leave any abdominal scarring. However, most of the cancers, especially ovarian and endometrial usually require extensive surgery involving complete removal of the womb (a hysterectomy) and ovaries that have an impact on fertility and menopause. Other types of gynecological cancer, such as vulva or vagina cancer require removal of the external and/or internal organs that provide sexual pleasure and this has an impact on sexuality and intimacy.

For many women the surgical scar is a constant reminder of the cancer experience and can take some adjustment in accepting it as a life saving measure. Some women who cannot resume ‘normal’ intimate activities because of the scar, or who experience mild anxiety or depression as a result of it may benefit from counseling.

Most operations for gynecological cancer will take at least an hour to perform and not only do you have to deal with the possible diagnosis of cancer, and the need to have a major operation, but you will be very worried about the cancer having spread further than you and your doctor think. You also will have to trust the surgeon to do a good job. It is important that if there is a possibility of cancer being present that your surgeon is an accredited gynecological cancer specialist. This is especially important in ovarian cancer. You can find this out by simply asking him/her or by going to the website of your local cancer society. After discussing all aspects of your surgery it is important that you give consent to do what is necessary to reduce or eradicate the cancer. Preservation of ovarian function is possible in a lot of circumstances so make sure you and your surgeon have discussed this important area in some detail.

I just felt very unattractive I suppose for a very long time with the scarring. It was the major issue. It’s just such a dramatic mark and a constant reminder of a major illness for me. It’s not like I had a caesarean or a baby or that sort of excuse. At first I never felt comfortable with it but once I got used to it I got over it.

It took a few years. I didn’t have a relationship for about four years.

` My partner was very accepting and I thought ‘what have I been worrying about all this time?’

Seline

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