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[RHY]

Can someone talk me through what the current thinking/ evidence is on this because I was under the impression that it was now accepted that topical creams were very low risk?

I had a total hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy in March this year due to endometrial cancer. It was caught early, wasn’t aggressive thankfully and they’re confident they got it all and that any stray bits will have been caught by the radioactive dildo.

But oh boy I itch. Lubricants aren’t cutting it. GP read oncologists letter and refused to consider Px for topical oestrogen cream. Her latest suggestion is cetraben but I’ve not got hold of any yet.

I’m sure I can’t be the only itchy **** here but I’ve not managed to find anything by searching (I probably just don’t know the correct terms) and I had a brain haemorrhage a few years ago which makes it very difficult to concentrate for long.

What do you recommend?

[Jules]

Other people on here know more than me but I also believed it to be of minimal risk. I used it daily. Regarding the itching, I am currently today which is not common these days because the Yes moisturizer and estriol cream normally maintains comfort. So I'm actually putting on an extra application of estriol cream. It starts in the night when I'm hot.  I've also used organic castor oil which I find soothing and it's supposed to be good for irritation but it won't suit everyone. Organic coconut oil is another one I use.  I've also tried victory oil I think it's called but it's expensive and it was no better than Yes for me.  I just try to keep well moisturised and loose clothing and get fresh air around there.  I think estrogen is the key though. You need estrogen.

[bombsh3ll]

Obviously it's a personal choice but the risk is minimal - I would actually choose to take systemic HRT in that situation never mind vaginal.

However unfortunately you may need to see a specialist to access it, or self fund it.

There is a very paternalistic culture around women's healthcare, whereby our quality of life is so undervalued as an outcome that it doesn't warrant tolerating even the smallest risk, and a belief that women are not sufficiently intelligent to be afforded the autonomy to make such a decision for themselves.

This is not the same for men - Viagra has a small risk of life threatening cardiovascular events but it can be bought over the counter.

[CLKD]

Morning.  Your oncologist is covering his back!  As suggested get an appt with a dedicated menopause specialist, not a gynae who purports to 'know about'!  U may need to pay initially in order to get an appt. so that U can have appropriate VA treatment.  What ever happened Quality of Life?

Why would a small amount of VA treatment trigger recurr4uance.  U can buy GINA over the counter but I would seek professional advice in the 1st instance.  In the meantime using KY Jelly to ease any itchiness may well help, or get Yes or Sylk products - have a lookC at their websites.

Also how would VA treatment be any worse for the vagina than a radioactive dildo >shudders<.   R U still under the 'care' of the oncologist?  Buy him a copy of Me and My Menopausal Vagina ;-)

Well done Jules, U know what your body requires and when. 

[Ayesha]

The problem with GSM symptoms is if not treated the condition will get progressively worse, it will come down to quality of life for you in your decision making.

This document is very helpful, its a brilliant read
https://bssm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/GSM-BSSM.pdf

[AmandaJR]

Thank you so much for this document Ayesha. I’m in the middle of a battle with a Menopause Specialist / NHS GP and this document has just saved my prescription which they are trying to stop.

[CLKD]

Let us know how you get on!

[Ayesha]

Thank you so much for this document Ayesha. I’m in the middle of a battle with a Menopause Specialist / NHS GP and this document has just saved my prescription which they are trying to stop.

That document has helped me a lot obtaining topical oestrogen and the fight to get the right dose for my needs. Brilliant that its helping you too, yes let us know how it goes.

[Summer-sky]

Hi RHY,

Good news your endometrial cancer was caught early and hope you're recovering well from the hysterectomy and radio.  Yes it's a tricky one with oncologists and endometrial cancer, like HRT, it depends a lot on the type someone has - also obviously the grade and stage.  I think some are definitely more open to it as risk is minimal especially if the diagnosis was early stage endometrioid endometrial cancer (the most common type) but often want to wait awhile due to any risk of reoccurrence especially in the first two years after treatment - I think mainly because the vaginal vault can be one of the main places it can reoccur.  Did the GP just read the letter of your diagnosis or did the oncologist state in the letter no topical creams?  I only say this as often the GP will say no unless they contact the oncologist.  If it was stated then maybe get another opinion on it. 

[Old Frumpy]

A suggestion would take a look at MacMillian forum that is free to join direct youself to the appropriate threads and you can post a question and I am sure someone out there will have had a similar situation.

I came to here and have had some fantastic support when I was by GP that I couldnt restart Vagifem due to my head and neck cancer.  She looked into it and several weeks later she prescribed.....but I must add mine was a totally different area to you so I honestly can't say.  As for the cetraban, intially she gave me that to wash down below....but it was the cream and it was so sore and raw down there.  Last time it was the ointment.....I can't say it is soothing but it does not have the sting.  Ointments general don't sting as much!

I would suggest posting on the site suggested ask what advice and how others cope and what they have been given and you can also send a direct message to a Mac nurse who covers your particular problem.

I am so glad you are at the other side and hope my suggestion helps

Finally to others on this wonderful site....I only hope my suggestion of signposting does not offend. It is out of my previous situation and that understand and knowledge that I post this.

[CLKD]

All experiences can be shared and be taken now if appropriate or put 2 one side for later consideration.

Quality of Life?

[RHY]

Thank you for all the tips, I’m off to read the documents and join the other sites.

Unfortunately the oncologist was explicit about the alleged danger and my GP isn’t budging, yet.

[CLKD]

'alledged danger' - were these the actual words?  which bit of 'alledged' doesn't he understand?

I do wish that all medics would talk to their patients to find out how various conditions impact on daily life and that they should keep up2date with modern thinking. 

Get an appt to a dedicated menopause clinic?