Hi all - I was wondering if anyone else has had vaginal problems after cancer treatment, and what help might be available?
I was diagnosed with hormone positive IDC 2 years ago and started endocrine therapy as soon as I was diagnosed. Tamoxifen initially, and then switched to ovarian suppression using prostap, and exemestane.
I need to use vaginal moisturisers but have found myself increasingly uncomfortable applying the gel internally. Recently went for my smear, which was pretty painful even with a small speculum. I think I might have a small prolapse in the entrance to my vagina. I have been recalled to have a colposcopy and I am really dreading it.
I’m only in my early 40s, and single, and it is upsetting thinking I might have to be celibate from now on. Not sure who to turn to for help as my hospital don’t offer follow up care once you’ve finished active treatment. I’m expected to continue with my current endocrine treatment for another 5 years. Just feel very alone with such an embarrassing problem.
Hi am HER2+ and ER+ on both sides (had bilateral breast cancer 2023), was 54. I was on HRT (patch, mirena coil and Vagifem) before starting my treatment which had to stop on diagnosis. I started having vaginal issues soon afterwards and spoke to my team. One oncology nurse specialist was sympathetic and said vaginal oestrogen was an option if the moisturiser was not sufficient. I started Letrozole a year ago. Unfortunately I didn’t see her for several months and had to ask to speak to her to get help as others were very reluctant. The breast care nurse, with the surgeon referred me to a menopause specialist but the NHS wait was over 8 months even with a cancer diagnosis, which gives priority. So I paid privately. The specialist wrote to my team to look at my Predict score re Letrozole benefits. Mine was 5% and as I had two cancers at the same time I wanted to stay on it.
The GP would not prescribe as I had had cancer, even though I showed them the study says it was ok.
Predict Breast Predict advises you use this in conjunction with a medical professional.
The menopause specialist started me on Imvaggis ( lower oestrogen than Vagifem) and Blissell for external areas. I was prescribed 3 weeks daily, then twice weekly, but I have dropped to once a week with moisturiser most days. I had cervical smear last year and it was very uncomfortable before starting the treatment.
You are entitled to a menopause referral, so please ask.
There is a wonderful charity called Menopause and Cancer run by Dani Binnington who had breast cancer in her 30’s. They have many podcasts, YouTube and events that are very helpful. They have many experts on to give advise.
This is a link to study published in December 2023 with vaginal oestrogen and Tamoxifen and Aromatase Inhibitors eg Letrozole stating it didn’t increase mortality.
I found sitting down uncomfortable and I wasn’t able to exercise on an indoor bike. After starting the treatment it’s all gone away. Sexual relations has improved but not perfect.
I hope this helps.
If I can answer any more questions, please ask. I can only comment on my own experience. Please note I am having a break from Letrozole and hoping to start Exemestane soon. My side effects have diminished somewhat while on my break.
Just want to say thanks for your kind reply. I have plucked up the courage to discuss with the hospital’s breast care nurse, and have a referral to a menopause clinic. The waiting list is a few months long but hopefully I can get some help before it gets much worse.
@Briallen I’m so pleased you have now got a referral. It’s not easy discussing these things but I’m hoping it can be a more open subject especially relating to those who have been impacted by cancer.
