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Life Saved by Coil: Woman's Ovarian Cancer Battle
15 Oct
Summary
- A 13cm ovarian tumour was found pressing against a contraceptive coil.
- She was diagnosed with stage three ovarian cancer in June 2023.
- She is now cancer-free after surgery and chemotherapy treatments.
Caroline Bailey, 54, initially attributed her sharp, stabbing stomach pains to her contraceptive coil, seeking its removal. However, scans in June 2023 revealed a different cause: a 13cm tumour pressing against the coil. This led to her diagnosis of stage three ovarian cancer, a condition she feared she wouldn't survive beyond two years.
After undergoing chemotherapy and surgery, Bailey is now in remission with no evidence of disease. She expressed disbelief, stating, "I absolutely think that the coil saved my life." The cancer had spread to her omentum, necessitating a total hysterectomy, omentectomy, and appendectomy.
Further genetic testing revealed mutations increasing her risk for breast and ovarian cancers, prompting discussions about preventative surgeries like a double mastectomy. Bailey emphasizes the importance of women advocating for their health and seeking prompt medical attention for unusual symptoms. Her journey, marked by significant personal challenges including homelessness during treatment, has led her to a life philosophy of living for the present.
