Referred for unusual bleeding

Hi everyone,

I'm 50, was at Dr's yesterday for a pelvic exam as I've had very bad pelvic and anal pain since before Christmas with and needing to urinate constantly. I started having bleeding last week which was quite heavy and unusual for me as I take the mini pill to stop any bleeding at all as my periods were so bad. She went ahead with the pelvic exam as bleeding had slowed down a little, she had to remove the speculum as the pain was so bad but was able to do a physical exam. She says she is referring me to gynaecology as there was a lot of blood and she could feel something there. She advised I would likely need a biopsy done and she would also be asking them to examine the rectal area as the pain is still bad (was told by another GP this was likely a fissure). I am now very nervous about this particularly with the unusual bleeding. I'm also concerned about the tests they may have to do when I was in so much pain with GP trying to insert a speculum. Has anyone else experienced anything like this or can anyone advise if there's any pain relief I can ask for if they do have to do more thorough examinations?

Maggie

  • Hello Maggie

    I'm sorry to hear that you've had some ongoing symptoms which have now resulted in a referral to the gynaecology specialists. It's understandable that you're feeling anxious about what may be causing your symptoms and about the pain and discomfort that may come with further examinations. 

    Hopefully your GP will have recorded the fact in their referral that you experienced pain during the examination at the surgery, but do make sure that you explain this to the team before any further examinations are carried out. Being tense and worried about the prospect of pain and discomfort won't help to make things any easier, so hopefully they will be able to offer you reassurance and discuss the best way forward to manage things. 

    If it would help to talk with one of our nurses for some advice and support ahead of your appointment, you're welcome to give them a call on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. 

    Keep in touch Maggie and let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator