refusing cystoscopy
I'm scheduled for a cystoscopy next week after completing BCG treatments for my NMIBC, but am unsure if I want to proceed. In addition to the anxiety involved, I don't feel interested in further treatment if the cancer has recurred. Has anyone ever chosen to let the disease just take its course? Is it possible to postpone a first cystoscopy for a few weeks or months and allow oneself more time to finalize a decision? I have yet to discuss this with my surgeon, and am looking for other perspectives.
this is an anxious time for you, I completely understand. As you know I am not medically trained but from knowing the experience of others, there is certainly a better then average change the BCG has worked. My own advice would be to have the scope. If you don’t, you may then wonder what if. If the results aren’t as you hope for, you can still choose no treatment at that point. If they are good, you can carry on living your life. To answer your question in delaying the scope. It is your body and for sure you can say what or what doesn’t happen. Wishing you well whatever route you choose. Laura, Moderator, BladderCancer.net 
@laurelg - I am not medically trained and cannot provide any medical advice, but will provide my own opinion. I assume that you have stage 1 BC if you are having BCG. If that is the case, then you have a good chance to beat this disease in the early stages. My suggestion is to have the cysto and see where things are. That way you would have more information to determine if you wish further treatment if it is needed. This is not an easy road but many things in life are not. I am someone who prefers to know what is going on and hit it head on. While I realize others do not feel that way, I hope that you will move forward with the cysto and use that information for further decisions. Delaying the cysto will only increase your anxiety and not having the test may also cause the same stress because you do not know where things stand.
Please keep us posted on what you choose to do and know that we are here to support you whichever route you choose, It is your choice. My best to you. Linda Urbanski ( moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
