Hello, I went to the GP today as I had been experiencing tail

bone pain and a pressure feeling around my back end for several weeks.  I have always suffered from constipation and small pieces of faeces being stuck in my back passage which I have had checked in the past.

Today I had a rectal examination and my GP said she felt a hard lump and said she was referring me for a bladder scan and an urgent colonoscopy.   Needless to say I am scared to death.   She called later today to say they would not do a colonoscopy until I had done a stool sample test which I have to collect tomorrow.

Why will they not do the colonoscopy until this has been done given the fact she could clearly feel a lump?  I am beside myself with worry and feel this is just delaying any diagnosis.    Also why would I need a bladder scan?  My doctor is not forthcoming with any reassurance or explanation and I am left unable to sleep and worrying.     

initially the GP wanted me to just take paracetamol for the tail bone pain and it was only when I persevered that she did an examination and found the lump.

Any thoughts at all would be appreciated.