Seeking Reassurance After a Distressing Experience
Hello, everyone! I'm a 27-year-old female and I'm recently joining Reddit for the first time. I shared my situation last week and was encouraged to post it here as well. My medical background includes polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and I currently have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place. Although I believed I could not conceive, I have a boyfriend, so the possibility isn’t completely dismissed. On July 4th, I unexpectedly passed a lump from my vagina. While wiping, I noticed it and felt compelled to investigate further. In the days leading to this, I experienced significant back pain, cramps, and severe nausea, followed by minor spotting and intense vomiting. I reside in northern Canada and am quite far—about 26 hours—from my family doctor due to work obligations. When I visited a local hospital, I was met with indifference; they didn’t seem worried and didn’t even conduct an ultrasound to verify the position of my IUD. The setting was quite rural, with only a nurse available on call. I'm planning to return home, but my family doctor is booked for five weeks (the reality of Canadian healthcare—no offense intended as my mother and many relatives are in nursing). The hospital indicated that it would take at least eight weeks for pathology results to arrive. Has anyone else encountered a similar situation? If this lump turns out to be a polyp, what are the next steps? Is there a chance this could relate to a miscarriage? Both my mother and grandmother faced challenges with polyps and multiple miscarriages, which heightens my anxiety about my own situation. Being only a child in my family, I have a strong desire to become a biological mother someday, but this gives me pause about my potential health risks.
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 4:20:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling anxious after such a distressing experience, especially with your medical background and family history. The passing of a lump, along with your symptoms, certainly warrants concern. However, it's essential to approach this systematically and prioritize your next steps.
Main Points:
- You may have passed a polyp or tissue, but the exact cause will need further assessment.
- Your symptoms could relate to several conditions, but a doctor’s examination is critical for a proper diagnosis.
- It’s natural to worry, especially with your family history, but let's focus on actionable steps to manage your situation.
Explanation:
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can sometimes complicate menstrual cycles and reproductive health, and the presence of an IUD adds another layer of complexity. The lump you passed could be a polyp, the tissue lining of the uterus, or a product of pregnancy, but without further investigation, it’s difficult to ascertain.
Given your severe nausea, back pain, and vomiting, these symptoms might indicate a complication that could require medical attention, so it’s essential to keep monitoring your health.
Your concern about a possible miscarriage is valid, especially considering your desire for biological motherhood. Miscarriages can occur without obvious signs, and factors like PCOS may increase the risk, though many women with PCOS have successful pregnancies.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any ongoing or new symptoms, such as changes in bleeding, pain intensity, or signs of infection (fever, foul-smelling discharge).
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Consider Visit to Emergency Care: If your symptoms worsen or you develop fever and severe pain, seek immediate medical attention. While your local hospital might have been indifferent, it’s essential to prioritize your health, especially in acute situations.
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Plan for Pathology Results: While you wait for the results, start possible alternative options for a consultation. Consider looking for other local clinics or telehealth services for guidance while you’re away from your family doctor.
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Discuss Family History with a Doctor: When you're able to see your family doctor or another healthcare provider, discuss your family history in detail. They may recommend watching for specific symptoms or regular assessments to monitor your reproductive health.
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Emotional Support: Given the distress of this situation, don’t hesitate to lean on friends, support groups, or mental health resources. It’s perfectly okay to seek reassurance and talk through your feelings and fears.
Your health and peace of mind are paramount. Remember, staying proactive and informed can help reduce some of the anxiety you're currently experiencing. Feel free to reach out if you need further information or support.
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