The best thing I have found for urethra pain

[dawn42007]

My doctor gave me some lidocaine gel. It comes in a syringe but without the needle. The tip is rounded and I am able to put it right on the opening of my urethra. Last night I had a major flare and I put some lidocaine up there and instantly felt so much better. I was also told by my gyno that I can put the lidocaine on a q-tip and insert it in my urethra to relieve pain that is higher up. I just wanted to offer up this idea for everyone and I hope it can help others.

Jessica

[mightylittlemom]

thanks for the tip. I have a small tube of xylocaine gel left over from when I burned my finger. That has helped trememdously. My mom was the one who recommeded doing the same thing you just posted about. It does help, even if it is temporary. I hadn't thought to use a q-tip though. Thanks.

MLM

[Jeanne D.]

Be extremely careful when using a q-tip -- it can irritate the urethra!

Xylocaine gel can be obtained, with a prescription, in the size dentists use (when numbing your gums before the novocain is injected). The larger quantity is much cheaper. You can purchase a syringe used for dosing infants, fill with the gel, and squirt into the urethra. It works very well. My uro gave me this tip.

Jeanne

[classics]

Is there a difference between lidocaine and Xylocaine? Is Xylocaine better in that it numbs more?

[Jeanne D.]

Lidocaine and Xylocaine are the same drug.

[Allibeth]

Try to get sterile q-tips if you do that.

[ICNDonna]

without first discussing it with your physician. Q-tips can be especially hazardous because under that soft cotton tip there is sometimes a sharp stick, plus the fact that they can "shed" cotton.

If your doctor feels this is a good step for you, you will be taught how to do it safely.

Donna

[BittersweetRain]

You know, Donna, I have had so much urethral pain I can't even imagine inserting something into it. And I would also be concerned about fibers left behind. I'll have to use the more conventional methods for pain relief or just put it at the opening.

[Allibeth]

There must be some sort of thin silicon or latex cannula you can use, or a syringe with a longer tip. Maybe you can use a urinary catheter and cut it very short -- the pediatric ones are thinner (you can get them in #10French) so not as painful. Or use liquid lidocaine (instead of gel) while reclining so it leaks back into your urethra. You need to be creative -- don't expect your MD to know all the answers. I go to a well-reputed MD in Manhattan, and he told me it was okay to use a latex catheter eventhough I'm allergic to latex (like I really need more urethritis from using a substance I'm allergic to), and when I suggested a smaller, more comfortable type of catheter for my bladder irrigations that I found he had never heard of it. Maybe you can check out supplies at a medical supply store near you, and then ask your MD if it's okay to improvise with whatever goodies you find. Good luck.

[A.J.]

i used to use lydocaine in a bottle with a slender tip so i could easily insert it, but i notice that i'm one of those people who uses medicine for a while, then it wears off after a while. this is not always true, but it happened with the lydocaine which is such a bummer because it really helped. so i'd definitely recommend it, maybe minus the q-tip thing. you should be able to get the special bottle for easy use. good luck to everyone!

[Julie B]

I am really considering asking about this after the icky night I had last night. Lately, that is where most of my irritation has been. And as I was scrolling through the other answers, I was very glad you posted the warning about the Qtips, Donna.......I actually had my first (butcher) uro suggest using a Q-tip up there to relieve the itchy irritation! I was incensed.....asking are you kidding?

I would also be very very cautious about using any tip or syringe that is not disposible after use. I hope no one will reuse anything that touches there without sterilizing it, if that is the only option. I can envision the ped's catheters used to dip in the gel and inserted gently to sort of coat the opening, then throwing it away. I have never used catheters though.

I am for almost anything that relieves anyone's IC pain, but always check with your doctor......not only do you want them to have some input on what you are doing, but as was mentioned, THEY can learn from US about different ways to cope with IC and maybe help other patients. My (wonderful fantastic) second urologist had not tried atarax much (at all?) when I first asked about it. He said, give it a shot. That was in the very beginning of it's use in IC. Now, we all know, it is one of the first treatments tried.

Be well................Julie :-)

[Betsie]

I actually had my first (butcher) uro suggest using a Q-tip up there to relieve the itchy irritation! I was incensed.....asking are you kidding?

Good Lord Julie!

I never stop being amazed at the barbaric things still said and thought in the age of modern medicine. I hope no poor trusting teenager is given this advice...soglad you have a new and much improved URO...I too have never used catheters...so fortunate and while my IC is in very decent shape, I too am interested in the lidocaine method vs. pain meds.

My tolerance to them is abnormally high, so it seems a more generalized approach when needed might be a great thing to know. will ask my URO-the kindest man in the world and very well known uro, but truthfully? Clueless about managing IC...I had to read a lot to figure out my best approach. Time to move on I think. ;)

[Allibeth]

Well, actually cotton swabs are inserted in the urethra to obtain specimens, such as testing for ureaplasma. But I agree it is not preferable. I am also wary of not using something sterile and disposable, especially since it is difficult (if not impossible) for us to discern if our pain is from a new UTI. I know there are numerous studies that show clean technique and sterile technique have the same infectious rate outcomes (indeed, people with spinal cord injury don't use sterile technique, and they certainly cath often and don't feel UTI pain), so we don't need to obsess about being sterile, but I do anyway. It drives me crazy that my urologist isn't more conscientious about this -- e.g., he told me to bring my elmiron tablets to his office to crunch up so he could instill it in my bladder, and I was thinking: isn't he going to tell me to wash my hands before handling the tablet, and put it in a clean bag in my purse? What if I'd been putting unwashed hands in that bottle all along -- most people don't wash their hands before taking a pill. What if I carried that pill in a dirty coat pocket? Shouldn't he think to instruct patients on these things? And when something is sterile, like a syringe or catheter, he doesn't use sterile technique so it's futile. Julie B, it's so true that healthcare providers learn from their patients. I've been an RN for 13 years, and I've learned so much from my patients. I first learned about IC from a patient with it years ago (which is why I could identify it when I became symptomatic), and some people are so creative with their own treatments of various ailments.

[classics]

I doubt that I would be able to put anything in my urethra either. Haven't tried the lidocaine in my vagina, but I might try that. Since they are right next to each other maybe it's possible for the lidocaine to penetrate the tissues of the urethra. Who knows.

I do have success with putting a piece of ice in a balloon, filling the rest with water and freezing it, then placing it in the vagina. It's terribly cold when first entering, but once it's up there far enough, I can't feel it. (leave the end out, for easy removal) The ice numbs the urethra. Only thing, you can't walk around as it melts, else it will fall out. It's not a cure for burning, but provides some temporary relief.

[Allibeth]

Classics, applebetty, Maybe you can freeze something small and metal so it conducts cold well and insert that. I also get hot burning pain in my vagina and sometimes feel like shoving ice cubes up there but haven't yet, but even if I did I see your point about leakage. Anal dildos are small, maybe sex stores sell metal dildos?? It would be the right shape, just put in the freezer for an hour to make cold. Or maybe a mini ice pack? Do they come that small? They make "tampon weights" for people that do Kegel exercises -- they are popular in parts of Europe -- maybe they make metal ones. Perhaps once the vagina is numbed with ice, the urethra will become numb enough to insert some lidocaine.

[ICNDonna]

Allibeth --- I know medical professionals use Q-tips to obtain specimens, and there may be some instances when patients are given instructions for using Q-tips in the urethra. What I am saying is that it's never good to put anything in the urethra without consulting a physician first.

Donna

[Allibeth]

Yes, Donna, I agree. I mentioned checking with your MD in one of my posts -- I should put this at the end of all my posts probably, I'm so verbose and a line can be easily lost or forgotten -- and I also mentioned that even if approved by MD inserting a swab doesn't sound so appealing. Checking with your MD can't be reinforced enough, thanks for bringing this up.

[Allibeth]

Applebetty, I'm not sure what you're asking, but I can assure you that lidocaine has been safely and effectively used in vaginas for eons (at the recommended dose, of course). Women have directly inserted it for their own pain, or invaritably wound up with it in their vaginas because their lovers used it to prevent premature ejaculation (lido is in some over-the-counter lubricants for this purpose). Did you see that episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm where Larry uses a condom that has lido on it to prevent premature ejaculation, and his wife's vagina becomes numb?

If it helps your urethra pain, then you're killing two birds with one stone and this is a blessing indeed. I'm sure if you've been helped in this way, then many have been -- believe me, you're not a freak if that's what you're worried about.

[Allibeth]

Applebetty, most people have a hard time discussing certain anatomy and bodily functions, esp those body parts related to sex. Heck, most healthcare providers don't want to talk about these things in detail (and don't, unfortunately). If you've seen some of my posts you know I'm not like this, I'll say anything and don't apologize for being graphic. Hopefully as many people are helped as are offended! Anyway, I make no judgements, we're just asking questions and trading information, can't let our embarrassment get in the way about finding out information that may improve our health and quality if life. It's all anonymous anyway. Ask on.

[Betsie]

Hey Applebetty,

May I ask how old you are? I am just curious and no matter the age, its okay to share. It might help with information. :) I am 49 if that helps (eek)

[ICNJess]

I believe it is the ICA that has a list of things you can give to your gynecologist to make paps easier...I'll do some digging--it's supposed to ease the pain of exams in IC patients...yearly exams are so important, in detection and treatment as well know--I'll try to find you a link. Maybe it'll help.


Found the link! Hope it does help; http://www.ichelp.com/FeatureArticles/MakingPelvicExamsEasier.html

[Betsie]

I am so sorry for all this, it isnt fair. I suggest you have a really good heart to heart with your GYN, be very candid and ask lots of questions...assuming you have a good relationship with your GYN....if not, might I suggest a female, ask around in your area. the whole lidocaine issue is perfectly acceptable, but perhaps you need some discreet questions answered. I think that is understandable, and please ask rather than feel uncomfortable. a good Dr can not only talk candidly, but give you very useful material for further reading. thank you for responding, I didn't want to advise a minor in this regard. You hang in there and keep on top of treatments and questions...your chances of success will be furthered through knowledge. :) the non sex myth is just that, look at all the very young folks here, not to mention many veterans, who suffered for decades before a proper Dx. it is not a fun topic, is it...i mean who on earth do you talk to when this joins us, it is quite personal and everone needs and deserves proper education and treatment.

[Allibeth]

Applebetty, I'm very concerned about you. Could you please be more specific about your discomfort? Is it emotional, physical, or both? Are you more ashamed about your uneasiness about the exam than the actual exam? Correct me if I'm wrong, but you seem to be ashamed of the fact that you are ashamed.

It may seem insane to suggest this, but if you can confide in a friend can you take her to the exam with you? Even if you change your mind and decide to make her wait in the waiting room, at least she is there. If you decide to let her in the room, if she is standing by your head she will not be able to see anything "down there." You'll be covered with a sheet, only the MD will see. Can you ask for xanax or valium before the exam? It is not unheard of to need a sedative for an internal pelvic exam.

Nuns have problems down there, being a virgin isn't a guarantee that nothing will go wrong. I encourage you to talk to a therapist, she might be able to help with relaxation techniques, like self-hypnosis.

If it's any consolation, no one likes getting a GYN exam. I mean absolutely no one, including hoochies that show everyone their cha cha and don't have IC! I've cried and groaned in discomfort from exams, I get anticipatory anxiety from the moment I make an appt with my GYN.

I hope I said something that helps. Good luck, Allibeth

[BittersweetRain]

Betty, That's comletely absurd. A virgin is someone who has not had intercourse (although I don't understand young people who think oral sex doesn't count!) It isn't about the state of your hymen. Many lose that from normal physical activity. I am sorry for your difficulties, I'm sure there is an answer for you somewhere.

[Allibeth]

Applebetty, there are different definitions of what constitutes sex and virginity. It is totally subjective. The person you speak of might define using a tampon as sex, but believe me 99.9999% of people would disagree (I knew someone like this, she refused to use tampons or a diaghragm or have an exam. It was a cultural/religious thing). Various religions, the medical field, gay people, -- we all have different ideas about what constitutes sex, right? Don't let this person impose his/her (extremely unique) definition on you.

I liked my xanax and self-hypnosis ideas, maybe one day you'll reconsider, but I know how awful it is to do something you hate doing, exams really sound intolerable for you. Best, Allibeth

[ICLori]

Applebetty, I felt your sadness when I read your posts. I understand about feeling bad sometimes about medical procedures. I've had a really hard time coping with some nerve stimulation that was done to me "down there" because I was raped repeatedly as a child and being given pain down there again reminded me too much of it. So a lot of emotions were brought up.

Is there something bad that happened to you, too? That's the first thing that I thought when you were describing how icky you felt. I understand those feelings all too well. Those of us who were abused as children often feel this way during medical exams/procedures that involve that part of our body.

Blessings, Lori

[Allibeth]

Applebetty, this may sound extreme and of course I wasn't there when it was said, but from hearing your side it really sounds like this self-appointed sex expert was verbally abusive by labelling you something you really don't want to be labelled. You sound like a very sensitive person, you don't deserve to feel this bad. I think you know intuitively that your ideas on sex are not the same as this other person's, go with your gut. I certainly won't let you acquaintance define my virginity status or make me feel bad. Who made him/her judge and jury? No one has this right. Maybe you don't feel this emotionally yet, but I hope at least intellectually you know an exam doesn't change your identity. I hope you can let your acquaintence's misguided and unwelcome comments go.

[cinder]

Applebetty I am sorry you are going thru all of this, please reconsider and go just talk to your gyn. Would it help if you saw a women gyn? I had my Cysto/Hydro done by my Uro which I work with at the hospital and had started my cycle a day before the exam. I felt so embarresed about that, its a personal thing to me and made me feel naked to him and the OR crew. I feel weird everytime I see him now, I don't know why starting my peroid and him being down there doing the cysto/hydro makes me so weird about it but that just how our minds work... Take care and please see someone.
Cinder

[ICNJess]

(((((AppleBetty))))))

Good luck with the Algonot, I hope it works well for you.

And as for this:


I'm not a discusting person and I did not choose to have IC. If no one wants to believe me about not having sex then why should I worry about it?


It's nobody's business but yours, sweetie, and if the doctors can't accept that, then it's time to give 'em the 'ol boot. They're there to listen to you, and they should never make you upset. Unfortunately, we get those docs from time to time, but we just have to weed them out from the good.

Yay for your new way of thinking! That will take some work, but I am sure it will be worth it. I myself have turned over a new leaf! Take care, and we all care. :D

Hugs,
Jess

[Sherry5]

I know I am going to get stoned by the mobs for saying this, but if you are a virgin you shouldn't need regular pap smears (crouches behind chair to avoid being hit) The bacteria that leads to cervical cancer is sexually transmitted. The reason everyone has to have paps done is because almost everyone has had sex, and the cancer can show up many years after the bacteria.

Now, I am not saying you shouldn't ever be examined, because an examination may show other problems, but you may not have to go as regularly. It helps me that they always cover up my legs. I know it is insane, but if I can't see "down there" I just imagine that they can't either.

I am glad you have an understanding uro- that is very important when you have IC and are uncomfortable with a Gyno

Good luck! :)

[dyno]

The one thing to remember about the whole pelvic exam issue is this, although some people don't need to have pap smears as often as others, there are other medical problems that can be detected by this exam.

I think it is important to discuss how often an exam is needed with your Dr.

[Allibeth]

Women can get HPV culture to see if they have the virus that causes 98% of cervical CA. Just remember that you may have a false negative, may want this culture a couple of times -- virus not always shedding, swab might not hit the part of your cervix that contains virus, you may acquire virus after tested -- defintely get a coupl'a tests. Condoms don't protect you from HPV. It's estimated more than half of women have HPV, but only certain strains cause CA (the test will tell you what strain you have).

It's feasible to get HPV without sex -- sharing a wet towel (which many kids do), contaminated hands, etc. Also, many non-sexually active adults were molested as children.

As mentioned, there are other things besides cervical CA checked during an exam. Many things can go wrong down there, sadly.

It's no secret that virgins and monogamous couples need exams less frequently -- the Am Board of OB/GYN recommends every 2 years (it's yearly for the rest of us). Sherry5, you were correct, no one will throw stones :)

(Applebetty, the above was not intended to try to convince you to get an exam. I believe emotional health is as important as physical health, you'll have a GYN exam when/if ready).

[ICNJess]

I started getting pelvic exams before sex, when I had ovarian cysts--those are so painful!

[Bennett]

I get vagnial burning any ideas? I tried ice, warm and hot water, that helped sometimes, go figure and lidocaine burned me alot. Help!

[mightylittlemom]

I get burning. Have it after an exam too. Lidocane works, eucerin works great too.(The thick stuff that comes in a small tub.) You can get it in the lotion section of the grocery store. It's used for excema patients and works wonders on dry skin and itchy parts. It's very soothing.

Somehow I can't find applebetty's posts, but here is my gyn experience:

As for the GYN exam, my primary doctor is a family physician. he said he could do the pap smears etc, but when I began to complain of pain I was having last week, he went on a bit of a tangent about some people preferring women doctors etc. I think he was the one embarrassed. I have the option to have a primary gyn doc also, and due to a few problems with my previous one, I hadn't been seen by him for two years. Then I had an abnormal "period". I called and got a new gyn doctor. I hand picked him from the list of Doctors at our hospital. This new doctor knows about IC and he was very gentle during the exam, apologising for the pain he knew he was going to cause. He already had the pediatric speculum ready for me too. Turns out I have a cyst causing the pain, and scar tissue too. I am waiting to ovulate which is why it hurts.

There was a time when I insisted on a female doctor. And I think I was able to avoid an exam until I was 23 and engaged. I was a virgin until I got married at 24, and seeing a male doctor was embarrasing beyond belief until I worked on the breeding floor in college. There I palpated mares for ovulation, artificially inseminated them, did biopsies, live cover, and collected stallions, etc. I got over my embarassment real quick, and now I don't care if I see a male or female as long as they can help me and they are sympathetic. To me it's all par for the course, another day at the office taking care of just another part of the body. I think it is different for everyone though. Before, exams were traumatic and embarassing. Now they are just another doctor's visit. In fact the last OB/GYN I had would ask me how many foals I delivered that year while he was doing the exam. I remember telling him about the one retained placenta we had and him asking how we dealt with that in horses. It somehow made it easier.