I need some help. I have a few questions.

[heybrej]

I am going to the docror tomorrow to get a pap smear, but this morning I started to have some very bad bladder/urethra pain. It may be from sex last night, but I dont know if it is an infection or just IC. My symptoms of IC are very similar to those of an infection. Should I find out if I have a UTI before I go tomorrow? Should I even go at all? What if my doctor doesnt know about IC (its my first time visiting her)? Im very nervous about it all :help: Thanks.

_breanna_

[BethW]

Dear Breanna, everyone's pain is different but I guess if it were me, I'd want to know right away if I had a UTI. The ICN actually sells UTI home testing kits and I like to have these on hand b/c it's a hassle running to the doctor every time and it's hard to tell the difference between a UTI and a flare.

I hope your appt with the new doc tomorrow goes well. If you dont get anywhere or she gives you a hard time, find somebody else. I've learned the hard way that you need to have a doc you can really have a good relationship with b/c IC is a chronic thing and you will need long term care. Dont be afraid to be pushy and ask questions. Remember it's your body and you know it best!

Take care
BethW

[ICNDonna]

If you feel like you might have a UTI, I suggest you have it checked as soon as possible. If you can't get it checked today, the gyn should be able to check in the morning at your appointment.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[heybrej]

thanks donna, i didnt even think about that!