What should I bring to my first oncology appointment for Cervical Cancer

What to Bring to Your First Cervical Cancer Oncology Appointment

Your first oncology appointment is an important step in your care. Here's what you should prepare to bring:

[ID removed] & Test Results

• Pathology report from your cervical biopsy (this shows the type and grade of cancer cells)
• Imaging reports - According to NCCN Guidelines, you may have had CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or ultrasounds. Bring the actual reports AND the images on CD if available
• Lab work - Complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and kidney function studies
• Any previous gynecology records - Pap smear history, HPV test results, or prior cervical procedures
• Pathology slides - If your biopsy was done elsewhere, request the actual tissue slides be sent to your oncology center

Personal Health Information

• Insurance card and photo ID
• List of all current medications - including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and vitamins
• Allergy information - especially drug allergies
• Medical history summary - including any previous surgeries, radiation, or chemotherapy
• Family cancer history - note any relatives with cancer and what type

Questions & Notes

• Written list of questions - According to NCCN Guidelines, important questions include:

  • What is your experience treating cervical cancer?
  • What treatment plan do you recommend for me?
  • What are the risks and benefits of each treatment option?
  • What are the side effects I should expect?
  • How soon should I start treatment?

• Symptom diary - Note any bleeding, discharge, pain, or other symptoms you've experienced

• Notebook or device - to take notes during your appointment

Support & Logistics

• Contact information for your primary care doctor
• List of other specialists you see (if any)
• Someone to accompany you - It's helpful to bring a trusted family member or friend who can help you listen and take notes
• Transportation plan - Know how you'll get to appointments, especially if treatment will require multiple visits

Fertility Considerations

If you want to preserve your ability to have biological children in the future, bring:

• Information about your fertility goals - According to NCCN Guidelines, fertility-sparing treatment may be an option for early-stage cancers, and your doctor may refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist (a specialist in fertility)

Additional Items

• Insurance pre-authorization forms - if your insurance requires them
• Work/school documentation - if you need to discuss time off for treatment
• Mental health resources - NCCN Guidelines recommend assessing for distress; bring information about any counseling or support services you're interested in

What NOT to Worry About

You don't need to have everything memorized or perfectly organized. Your oncology team will:

• Request missing records from other providers
• Order any additional testing needed
• Help you understand your diagnosis and stage
• Explain treatment options specific to your situation

Before Your Appointment

According to NCCN Guidelines, your care team will want to know about:

• Smoking status - If you smoke, ask about smoking cessation resources (quitting can lead to better treatment outcomes)
• General health - Any chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease
• Medications that affect bleeding - Like aspirin or blood thinners

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.