I’m still fairly freaked out over lump-gate. I’ve looked up statistics based on my age and family history. All of those things appear to be in my favor. I’ve quizzed Dr. Man about the work-up these things normally receive (it helps that he’s studying this for the USMLE) and it shouldn’t be too bad (worst-case initial work-up is a fine-needle biopsy). I like to know things. I like to be prepared. Usually, it helps me to calm down. This time, though, it’s not. helping.
However, this has stopped me complaining about the NP holding my anti-baby pills hostage. See, I hate the annual exam stuff. It’s uncomfortable and usually ends up with me whacking some poor person in the head with my knee (not intentionally). I’ve felt that they were kind of unnecessary (until now). I’m in a committed relationship and young (I’m only just approaching my late twenties… see: young!).
So, I thought that those factors should rule-out the necessity for these exams. I thought all those things right up to the point where the Nurse Practioner (poking around in the pectoral area) said, “Hmm…. Did you know that you have a lump there?”
Two more days.
I’d step away from Google if you can. Dr. Google is NOT your friend (says the person who had an abnormal pap while pregnant).
You’ll be in my thoughts … and I’ll be sending positive vibes your way. đŸ™‚
I wouldn’t worry too much — they (whomever ‘they’ is) are saying that manual lump palpitations lead to so many false positives that it’s not a great way to detect anything, which is why ‘they’ no longer tell women to perform the monthly self-exam. But, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Same with the pap — you may hate going, but if you can find a way to route off cancer early, you want to do it.
I presume Dr. Man is taking Step 3? But isn’t he already done with intern year and in residency? I guess every program is different… Husband already had to take his in the fall… in the first half of his intern year. Anyway, he said it was quite a bit easier than he was expecting it to be, and wished he had spent less time studying and more time playing Playstation.
I’m sure it will be okay, but if it’s not it will be so good that you caught it early.
I hope the next two days go quickly!
I’m sure you will be okay – and good for you for staying on top of your health
I’ve had a cervical biopsy taken after an abnormal pap (came back normal) and I freaked out in exactly the same way. I made my husband go with me to the clinic for moral support(he wasn’t there for the actual biopsy), which I usually never do.
Once the actual procedure started, my scientist brain kicked in and I insisted on seeing the images from the camera – this really seemed to help me.
For some reason, I was less worried about having a suspicious mole removed, even though I probably should have been more worried (it came back as “starting to change”), but somehow things you can actually see don’t seem so scary.
I know exactly what you mean about wanting to be prepared. They showed me a video right before the ceervical biopsy, but I’d already read up about it online (of course). So I was OK with it. The mole doctor freaked me out though by looking at the mole for a bit and then whipping out a scalpel – I was completely unprepared having thought that any removal would have to be a separate appointment, Again, my scientist brain saved me – he asked what I do, and we had a nice chat about the latest research while he did his thing.
Does this rambling have a point? Well, you tell me ;). Hang on in there, you are almost there and you will soon be able to put this behind you.
Oh, it is quite common to see minor changes in that area without it being too complicated. that said, I understand if you are worried. I have found that teeth (mouth) problems and “personal part” problems are what gets me super on my toes. Something to do with that I know there is nothing I can do myself (yes, I guess the mole thing is one thing I could technically get myself… not a good plan but I am not completly helpless). Trying to do a pap on myself? Not even a chance.
I wish the next few days will pass quickly and that the results are good.
I have had my scare a few years ago, biopsy and all. The only way I could worry less while waiting was by occupying myself with something, so perhaps you should fill your evenings to the brim with away-from-the-computer activities.
Totally natural to be freaked, but you’re a scientist — try to take comfort in statistics: in the vast majority of cases, everything is fine (as you know). Hang in there.
Just sending some happy calming thoughts your way. Googling and worrying won’t change the outcome of the testing one way or the other. I’d try to distract yourself as much as possible with non-computer time and get outside for some fresh air. Hope all gos well!
Hang in there! Positive thoughts to you. Remember that “abnormal” at first glance is frequently just that and turns out to be nothing that needs worrying over…yet it’s impossible not to in the meantime. Have some ice cream. That always makes me feel better.
Good luck with this and all the rest…
Thinking of you. Runs in the family for me, so I understand the whole anxiety thing. Fingers crossed.
I can totally understand your being freaked out…I would be too. Sending good thoughts your way. Hang in there!
Thinking of you and sending positive vibes.
I get being freaked out, My BFF had a stage 3 abnormal cells (just before they become cancerous) and went through all the procedures. You’re a scientist, look at the stats. The probability of any negative repercussion are very very low. Even if it is cancerous, the cure rate is extremely high. wishing you the best of luck.