a lot of blood....

[Karen05]

Hello all....I am really hoping someone might be able to shed some light on my situation.
I apologize for the graphicness of this post.....

I have had IC for 7 years and am 29 years old, and use hydrodistensions for treatment on a yearly basis. My last one was in January 2007. My biggest issue at the moment is I have basically had a period for the past four months, where I have been bleeding everyday. But it seems to be getting worse in the past two weeks, and when I get up in the morning and go to the bathroom for the first time, it seems like I am discharging pure blood because it is really thick. I am so sorry for the graphicness of this post, but I just am really worried and do not know what to do. I guess my main question is how does one figure out where the blood is coming from, whether it is vaginal or is bladder related?
The frustrating part about this, is I went to see my GP about this back in august and have been a few times since then about it, but they seem to have no concern about it, they have referred me for a pelvic ultrasound but i am still waiting on an appt.
All of you on here know probably more than any other that nagging feeling when you know that there is something not right, well I have it...and I am really worried about it. This is not right, I should not be having daily heavy bleeding for that long. Not only is it the worry of it, but it is also the physical aspects of it, the cramping and the flaring that goes along with pre period time for someone with IC along with the constant being worried that because it is so heavy, that it is going through my clothes etc....
I just dont know what to do, if my gp does not seem worried, does that mean that i should not be either?:confused:

[Karen05]

I forgot to mention that I have also since this bleeding has begun been passing what i can only describe as clots of blood, it is like spongy tissue, but again, do not know where it is coming from...how do you know, as in vaginal or other?
Again, have told doc about this, but they have no concern?

[Sally939]

I could be wrong but I would go see another doctor right away. I have had a period for three months when I was younger after taking barbituates for head aches. But it was very light. Are you taking meds? I would not let this go with out getting more info on why this would be happening. So you say it is heavy about how long can you go with out changing your pad or tampon? Sorry to be graffic or personal. I am just trying to understand. I would worry about blood loss too. Again I could be wrong. I am sure someone else will speak upand give you advice.

[Judith56]

I would strongly suggest that you see a gynecologist to determine if it is vaginal or urinary.

[Karen05]

thank for your responses....the only meds i am on at the moment are pain meds for my bladder, and i was taking amitriptyline but stopped that about two months ago, which was two months after this whole thing started.
In answer to the question about changing pads, I go through about three or four in a 24 hour period.
thanks again for your help.

[Zygala87]

If you can use a tampon ,do use them for a few days. You would then know where the blood is coming from for sure I think. I never had a tampon leak onto my cloths. If it is coming from your bladder for sure this information can help your Doctors. Either way insist the Doctors fugure this out. Bleeding such as yours need attention ASAP. Keep us informed please, we care. Ziggy

[ICNDonna]

I have to agree that you need to see your gyn. It sounds like it could easily be vaginal.

Donna

[SharonA]

Please see your gyn soon, like tomorrow.

[Karen05]

i only wish it was so easy, unfortunately i am likely looking at at least another four month wait to see a gyne. i do not have one at present (only just moved to england recently) and so would have to get a referral and then it takes about 3-6 months to get a first appt with a consultant...ridiculous i know, but it is the reality of healthcare these days.

[Sally939]

How long would it take to get to another FP? Do you think if you explained the problem they would get you in sooner? I am in the US but my INS has a nurse line maybe they could help get you in. If nothing else do you think the ER might help? Could you call your old doctors and see if they can help you get in? How far did you move? Could you drive back?

[Judith56]

Okay, so let me understand this, you were in Toronto, but now live in England? If this is the case then I do understand how slowly the NIH works. If though the bleeding gets out of control, then do go to A&E (ER) and that way maybe a gyn will be called down to see you. At least you dont have to pay,right? I woudl also ask your primary dr. to see if they can pull some strings and get you in sooner. Judith