I recently had a blood test to see if I was menopausal as I am 52 and I haven’t had a period for 2 years. It revealed that I had an unexpectedly high level of oestrogen - this is something that concerns me greatly. I was sent for an ultrasound scan and this showed thickened endometrlium (not really a surprise as I had taken Tamoxifen for about 5 3/4 years and this seems to be quite common with this drug). I am being referred for further tests to see if this is endometrial hyperplasia or worse! I am getting myself in a state, not so much over whether I have endometrial cancer but with regards the tests. I am a very private person and I have never even had a smear test. I have always thought that I would rather die than go through the humiliation and indignity of these types of examinations, and I have asked if I could be put out for them, otherwise I don’t think I can go through with it. I have a son of 16 and the only way I coped when giving birth was to use so much gas and air that I felt out of it! I really want to improve my chances of survival by reducing the level of oestrogen, and am very keen to have a hysterectomy (I would like everything removed) but this won’t be considered unless I go for these tests. I really wish I had been stronger and hadn’t allowed myself to be talked into taking Tamoxifen, which I consider to be a highly carcinogenic substance - especially as I try to lead a healthy lifestyle. I don’t suppose anyone can really help me but it helps to put my concerns down in writing. Thanks for reading, Sunnyday x
Just following up on my original post - if anyone could give me any tips as to how to get through any of these degrading and humiliating tests I would be most grateful. In case you haven’t gathered I have a very real phobia about this - imagine if you are scared of heights and you are asked to sit on a window ledge on the 50th floor of a building! That’s kind of how I feel about this. I really want to reduce the levels of oestrogen in my blood though and am keen for a hysterectomy (or is it salpingo oopherectomy? - everything out), so I need to go through with this to hopefully get the end result I want. I have an appointment for Monday morning (a bit soon and worryingly so - it is good that they act quickly but just serves to worry people even more). I have had a bad day today and am getting really worried now, and starting to fear the worst. Help x