Chemo/Vaginal Issues
I have completed my chemo A/C at the end of October. Those that have experienced chemo know about the awful things it does to our bodies. For me one of the remaining awful things from the chemo it left me with vaginal dryness (and I haven't even started taking my tamoxifen yet which I read creates other vaginal issues and much more). But the little vaginal moistness I do have left has a very offensive odor (at least to me). I feel so unclean all of the time. Have any of you ladies experienced this and if so, what were you able to do to get rid of the odor? Does it correct itself? Does the vaginal dryness ever go away? Does the tamoxifen perpetuate this vaginal problem? Thanks for any help you can give. Stillgood (Linda)
Comments
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Hi,
I've been through the mill too and have learned that sugar and white flour can very much add to the problem you mentions. Remember "Friendship Cakes" .. you got a cup of starter batter and then fed it for ten days sugar and flour. Well the reason the batter grew was because of the yeast. We create this same scenario inside our bodies and don't realize it until it reaches huge proportions. First, of course, check with your physician, and see what they think. Then, consider your diet and write down what you eat in a journal for two weeks. I bet it will surprise you when you see how much bread and starchy kinds of foods we really do consume and sugar. They are temporary comfort foods but bite back.
If you choose to abstain from all starches (that means all breads, potatoes, starchy veggies as well) and sugar (avoiding sweet veggies) know that there is a withdrawal period (about three days or longer for some) that you might seem grumpy, irritable and crave all the above. Hang in there. The change you will begin to see is the yeast starts dying off and the body gets rid of it, cravings stop, remember to drink good water regularly slowly. Splenda is my sugar substitute. I would also consider taking acidophilous (its the live bacteria that makes yogurt yogurt). It is considered the friendly flora in your system and helps balance the problem you mentioned. I also take the omega oils (Carlson's Lemon Cod Fish Oil 1 tsp), and Natural Vit. E at least 800 iu. Other omegas are Borage Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Evening Primrose. All of this seems to have helped me maintain the moisture and avoid the uncomfortable dryness you are experiencing, plus added benefit is that it is anti-inflammatory so joints feel better, and it mood lifts naturally. The Supple- ments A,C,E, are antioxidants and together with the omegas my skin, face, hair, nails all look healthy inspite of the Chemo and Tamoxifen, and nine surgeries. You can get through this. A young 54. Lots of hugs, healing energy, and laughter. Iris0 -
Hi Linda:
WOW, you've come so far! I know how great it feels to have your treatment behind you!
Celebrate and enjoy it!
I had vaginal dryness for about 4 months following chemo and rads. My gyn recommended Replens. It's easy to use and lasts for 3 or 4 days. I found that I needed to wear a thin panty liner for the first hour or so after using it. (K-Y also makes a similar product.)
My dryness corrected itself and I no longer use the Replens but wouldn't hesitate, should the need arise. Just twice a week and forget it. Too, you're always prepared when intimacy arises and don't need to hustle about looking for moisturizer. Replens, for me, was the next best thing to
my own natural moisture.
I don't take Tamoxifen but my friends who do have not had any dryness issues with it. They do get more frequent gyn check ups to keep a bit closer eye on the miniscule risk of cervical cancer it carries.
RE the odor you mentioned. Sometimes, vaginal odor can signal a yeast infection, etc. so you should really call your gyn about it, straight away. It may be nothing at all but you do not want a yeast infection to run amok!!! A good clue is if you start having any vaginal burning at urination or just feel irritated in the area.
You may want to search these websites: www.nci.nih.gov and www.tamoxifen.com
The latter one is the Novaldex website. The former is the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute website. They present very reliable info. and you may choose "patient" or "health professional" formats.
Hope some of this may be helpful to you. Take good care of yourself, good luck in finding solutions to these issues and ENJOY your post treatment freedom! I honestly felt lighter than a feather after I finished treatment. I could scarcely contain myself!
Please keep us posted.
Love, light and laughter,
Ink0 -
Iris, thanks so much. I'm a young 48 and I've been devasted by all of this. I never thought it could possibly be a yeast related. Never had yeast problems before. I've been reading a lot and trying to get myself in the mindset to change how I eat. Can you share anything about Tamoxifen and how you get through it. I'm totally petrified about taking it. I've had the prescription for a month but can't make myself take it. I don't want to gain any weight and all the other stuff that I've read about. Thanks so much for the info.iris48 said:Hi,
I've been through the mill too and have learned that sugar and white flour can very much add to the problem you mentions. Remember "Friendship Cakes" .. you got a cup of starter batter and then fed it for ten days sugar and flour. Well the reason the batter grew was because of the yeast. We create this same scenario inside our bodies and don't realize it until it reaches huge proportions. First, of course, check with your physician, and see what they think. Then, consider your diet and write down what you eat in a journal for two weeks. I bet it will surprise you when you see how much bread and starchy kinds of foods we really do consume and sugar. They are temporary comfort foods but bite back.
If you choose to abstain from all starches (that means all breads, potatoes, starchy veggies as well) and sugar (avoiding sweet veggies) know that there is a withdrawal period (about three days or longer for some) that you might seem grumpy, irritable and crave all the above. Hang in there. The change you will begin to see is the yeast starts dying off and the body gets rid of it, cravings stop, remember to drink good water regularly slowly. Splenda is my sugar substitute. I would also consider taking acidophilous (its the live bacteria that makes yogurt yogurt). It is considered the friendly flora in your system and helps balance the problem you mentioned. I also take the omega oils (Carlson's Lemon Cod Fish Oil 1 tsp), and Natural Vit. E at least 800 iu. Other omegas are Borage Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Evening Primrose. All of this seems to have helped me maintain the moisture and avoid the uncomfortable dryness you are experiencing, plus added benefit is that it is anti-inflammatory so joints feel better, and it mood lifts naturally. The Supple- ments A,C,E, are antioxidants and together with the omegas my skin, face, hair, nails all look healthy inspite of the Chemo and Tamoxifen, and nine surgeries. You can get through this. A young 54. Lots of hugs, healing energy, and laughter. Iris0 -
Ink, I have seen you everywhere on this site. You are so wonderful to share so much with us. Is Replens over the counter?inkblot said:Hi Linda:
WOW, you've come so far! I know how great it feels to have your treatment behind you!
Celebrate and enjoy it!
I had vaginal dryness for about 4 months following chemo and rads. My gyn recommended Replens. It's easy to use and lasts for 3 or 4 days. I found that I needed to wear a thin panty liner for the first hour or so after using it. (K-Y also makes a similar product.)
My dryness corrected itself and I no longer use the Replens but wouldn't hesitate, should the need arise. Just twice a week and forget it. Too, you're always prepared when intimacy arises and don't need to hustle about looking for moisturizer. Replens, for me, was the next best thing to
my own natural moisture.
I don't take Tamoxifen but my friends who do have not had any dryness issues with it. They do get more frequent gyn check ups to keep a bit closer eye on the miniscule risk of cervical cancer it carries.
RE the odor you mentioned. Sometimes, vaginal odor can signal a yeast infection, etc. so you should really call your gyn about it, straight away. It may be nothing at all but you do not want a yeast infection to run amok!!! A good clue is if you start having any vaginal burning at urination or just feel irritated in the area.
You may want to search these websites: www.nci.nih.gov and www.tamoxifen.com
The latter one is the Novaldex website. The former is the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute website. They present very reliable info. and you may choose "patient" or "health professional" formats.
Hope some of this may be helpful to you. Take good care of yourself, good luck in finding solutions to these issues and ENJOY your post treatment freedom! I honestly felt lighter than a feather after I finished treatment. I could scarcely contain myself!
Please keep us posted.
Love, light and laughter,
Ink
Like I told Iris, I never thought about a yeast infection. I don't have any of the symptoms of that (itching, burning, discharge). I just figured the odor was from the chemo because that's when it all began. Thanks for the info.0 -
I have found bouncing between menopause and menstrating and caught halfway between doesn't help this issue. Getting older can be a cause let alone chemo and radiation. I have medications that seem to make this alittle worse. I can remember giving birth and no one seemed to tellus what to expect after the actual birthing process. I had period for 6 straight months and boy did that have an odour, I couldn't stand myself. After that haven't noticed anything as foul but dry big problem. If it affecting your quality of life then you must see if you can find answers and possible solutions. I hope someone or something can do that for you.
Be good to yourself,
tara0 -
Thanks Tara,24242 said:I have found bouncing between menopause and menstrating and caught halfway between doesn't help this issue. Getting older can be a cause let alone chemo and radiation. I have medications that seem to make this alittle worse. I can remember giving birth and no one seemed to tellus what to expect after the actual birthing process. I had period for 6 straight months and boy did that have an odour, I couldn't stand myself. After that haven't noticed anything as foul but dry big problem. If it affecting your quality of life then you must see if you can find answers and possible solutions. I hope someone or something can do that for you.
Be good to yourself,
tara
I guess I didn't have enough sense to try and find out what was going on. I was told to expect dryness and discomfort and that's what I got. Of course, I wasn't told nor did I ask until now what I could do about it. I've noticed that I've spent the last 6 months in a fog just being led around and doing what I've been told to do by the professionals. I think I might be waking up just a little and taking care of myself.
Again, thanks for your comments. Linda0 -
Hello Linda!
Excellent idea to get cultured for yeast infection, etc. to rule it out... sounds like that is what you may have going on... sometimes they aren't itchy and all, just smell awful. Iris is dead on with the live culture yogurt/acidophilus. It will keep your body in line and is used to take care of vaginal dryness as well! (Taken internally, big spoonful every hour or so, try it for a day)
After you've taken care of the yeast there is another thing I can suggest for dryness. It's an herb called Motherwort. I take it in liquid form and when I forgot to take it for a week, I dried up for the first time in my life! (I am currently on a heavy chemo regime) I am also reading that acidophilus capsules can be inserted into the vagina once a week to help with vaginal dryness... Please feel free to contact me! zenhound@cac.net
Be well!
Marty0 -
Marty,martyzl said:Hello Linda!
Excellent idea to get cultured for yeast infection, etc. to rule it out... sounds like that is what you may have going on... sometimes they aren't itchy and all, just smell awful. Iris is dead on with the live culture yogurt/acidophilus. It will keep your body in line and is used to take care of vaginal dryness as well! (Taken internally, big spoonful every hour or so, try it for a day)
After you've taken care of the yeast there is another thing I can suggest for dryness. It's an herb called Motherwort. I take it in liquid form and when I forgot to take it for a week, I dried up for the first time in my life! (I am currently on a heavy chemo regime) I am also reading that acidophilus capsules can be inserted into the vagina once a week to help with vaginal dryness... Please feel free to contact me! zenhound@cac.net
Be well!
Marty
Thanks so much for the info. Like I've commented to the other ladies, I feel really stupid not being able to figure out a possible yeast infection. I know one thing, I've been introduced to more herbs and supplements then I've ever seen or known about in my life time. You take care through your chemo and thanks again.0 -
Linda, I finished my chemo in May. During chemo & for several months afterwards, I had a vaginal discharge which had an odor to it. I never felt clean. That stopped a few months ago. There was really nothing I could do but use FDS spray to create the illusion of being fresh. Unfortunately, the vaginal dryness continues but seems to be getting better. I'm not on Tamoxifen. They never tell you these side effects before you start chemo. Just like they never mention/rarely recognize chemo brain. Maria0
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Vaginal dryness, I have it too!!! Ugh.
Good morning ladies, well, here I am on this board. I was diagnosed in early June with a 2.1 cm ER+ HER2+. Currently undergoing 4 of 6 rounds of awful chemo. I had a lumpectomy & will undergo radiation in January & be kept on Herceptin until next summer. Then comes the blocker for 5 years. Not sure which one but I'm just as frustrated. I hoped I'd never find myself in this situation but here I am. I had a hematoma that delayed my chemo in July & had to go back into surgery. A facial infection that had to be treated with antibiotics. At 1:30 am last night I was awakened by a burning sensation like I had a urinary tract infection. I'm waiting on the Dr.'s office to call me back. Now, reading this, it may be yeast. After every chemo treatment, I get thrush in my mouth & have to take Diflucan for a week.
My poor vaginal area is really suffering. I try & put some Monastadt there just to cool it off. I have 3 more rounds to go & it's getting increasing more difficult as we go along. This isn't just a few months of hell, it's over a year trip. I'm also feeling very weepy these days. Well, thank you for letting me vent. I appreciate any input from all of you on this crazy ride with me. Have a blessed day & glad we're here for each other.
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Welcome, and I'm sorry you'rePattitsa said:Vaginal dryness, I have it too!!! Ugh.
Good morning ladies, well, here I am on this board. I was diagnosed in early June with a 2.1 cm ER+ HER2+. Currently undergoing 4 of 6 rounds of awful chemo. I had a lumpectomy & will undergo radiation in January & be kept on Herceptin until next summer. Then comes the blocker for 5 years. Not sure which one but I'm just as frustrated. I hoped I'd never find myself in this situation but here I am. I had a hematoma that delayed my chemo in July & had to go back into surgery. A facial infection that had to be treated with antibiotics. At 1:30 am last night I was awakened by a burning sensation like I had a urinary tract infection. I'm waiting on the Dr.'s office to call me back. Now, reading this, it may be yeast. After every chemo treatment, I get thrush in my mouth & have to take Diflucan for a week.
My poor vaginal area is really suffering. I try & put some Monastadt there just to cool it off. I have 3 more rounds to go & it's getting increasing more difficult as we go along. This isn't just a few months of hell, it's over a year trip. I'm also feeling very weepy these days. Well, thank you for letting me vent. I appreciate any input from all of you on this crazy ride with me. Have a blessed day & glad we're here for each other.
Welcome, and I'm sorry you're suffering! That sounds awful.
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Vaginal troublesPattitsa said:Vaginal dryness, I have it too!!! Ugh.
Good morning ladies, well, here I am on this board. I was diagnosed in early June with a 2.1 cm ER+ HER2+. Currently undergoing 4 of 6 rounds of awful chemo. I had a lumpectomy & will undergo radiation in January & be kept on Herceptin until next summer. Then comes the blocker for 5 years. Not sure which one but I'm just as frustrated. I hoped I'd never find myself in this situation but here I am. I had a hematoma that delayed my chemo in July & had to go back into surgery. A facial infection that had to be treated with antibiotics. At 1:30 am last night I was awakened by a burning sensation like I had a urinary tract infection. I'm waiting on the Dr.'s office to call me back. Now, reading this, it may be yeast. After every chemo treatment, I get thrush in my mouth & have to take Diflucan for a week.
My poor vaginal area is really suffering. I try & put some Monastadt there just to cool it off. I have 3 more rounds to go & it's getting increasing more difficult as we go along. This isn't just a few months of hell, it's over a year trip. I'm also feeling very weepy these days. Well, thank you for letting me vent. I appreciate any input from all of you on this crazy ride with me. Have a blessed day & glad we're here for each other.
I am at round 5 of 6 of T/C, and I can sympathize with your suffering. From days 4 through 9 I would like to rip my bottom from my body. Prior to treatment 1 I had antibiotics for a sinus infection. Onco thought it was just a reaction to that at round one. The rash/blistering/pain has continued through rounds 2 - 4. I too used Monostat, and I found Vagisil to work better for me. The best relief I have found (day or middle of the night) is getting in the shower and using a hand held shower head to just allow the water to flow over the area. I even tried Desitin (diaper cream) to try to avoid urine from touching my skin before I began to break out.
Although this is not a listed side effect for Taxotere, I am convinced that is the cause. Hope you can find some relief, or at least a little peace knowing that you are not alone.
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Chemo/vaginal issues
I just finished round 5 of 6 of taxol/carbo administered in a low weekly dose along with radiation. Around week 3, I thought I had a uti which I did and was treated with Cipro. Unfortunately I still had burning with urination and my crotch felt like it was on fire. My yeast culture came up negative so my gyno concluded that the chemo drugs were causing dryness. She prescribed an estrogen cream which so far has done nothing. I find that washing with a flushable wet wipe after urinating helps keep the sting down. 500 mg of tylenol helps take the edge off but doesn’t always work which is very frustrating. i have one more chemo treatment next weds. how long does it take the symptoms to subside???? The pain is awful but I have to get through this. I am also going to try the yogurt today. This page has been very helpful in re-affirming that I am not going crazy. Thank you all for sharing your stories. Any other advice you can share is welcome.
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Thank you!Apaugh said:sounds funny but...
get some plain yogurt. skip eating it. apply it directly on the source.
Hugs,
Annie
Thank you!
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I don’t have a yeastLeslie19 said:Yes, plain yogurt works - and
Yes, plain yogurt works - and even add a few drops of liquid vitamin E to it. Apply internally where you are hurting - it will provide relief and can also fight a yeast infection.
I don’t have a yeast infection. I have vaginal dryness from the chemo. I find eating the yogart is more effective. I am using replens on my dry vaginal areas.
Thank you!
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DHEA CubesMfinelli75 said:Chemo/vaginal issues
I just finished round 5 of 6 of taxol/carbo administered in a low weekly dose along with radiation. Around week 3, I thought I had a uti which I did and was treated with Cipro. Unfortunately I still had burning with urination and my crotch felt like it was on fire. My yeast culture came up negative so my gyno concluded that the chemo drugs were causing dryness. She prescribed an estrogen cream which so far has done nothing. I find that washing with a flushable wet wipe after urinating helps keep the sting down. 500 mg of tylenol helps take the edge off but doesn’t always work which is very frustrating. i have one more chemo treatment next weds. how long does it take the symptoms to subside???? The pain is awful but I have to get through this. I am also going to try the yogurt today. This page has been very helpful in re-affirming that I am not going crazy. Thank you all for sharing your stories. Any other advice you can share is welcome.
DHEA Cubes by Bezwecken
Dhea Cubes™ (12 cube suppositories/12 grams total with 10 mg DHEA)
Ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Dhea, Vitamin E and Beeswax
Full study here : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26731686
Highlights here
RESULTS:
At gynecological evaluation, vaginal secretions, epithelial integrity, epithelial surface thickness, and color all improved by 86% to 121% over the placebo effect (P < 0.0001 for all comparisons with placebo). Serum steroid levels remained well within the normal postmenopausal values according to the involved mechanisms of intracrinology.
CONCLUSIONS:
The daily intravaginal administration of 0.50% (6.5 mg) DHEA (Prasterone) has shown clinically and highly statistically significant effects ….. The strictly local action of Prasterone is in line with the absence of significant drug-related adverse events, thus showing the high benefit-to-risk ratio of this treatment based upon the novel understanding of the physiology of sex steroids in women.
COMMENTS
Based on a woman’s blog I belong to, the women really liked the suppository over the creams for ease of use. The only one I found that didn’t contain preservatives or glycerin was this brand which I order online. 12 cubes for about $1.75 each. Some women found a more economical approach which was to purchase 10 mg DHEA capsules, pour about half of powder onto a suppository, and reshape it so powder in buried into suppository - about $.40 each.
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I just did number 2 of 6 of my chemo/targeted therapy which includes Taxotere and I have been having a yellowish colored/no odor discharge that burns my outer vaginal area if not cleaned with wipes right away. Does anyone know if this could be from the Taxotere & if I will have this issue throughout my treatment or is there anything I can do to minimize it? Please help as this is really making me want to live in the shower! 😫
0
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