Unusual Lump: Seeking Advice from the Community
Hello everyone! I’m new to Reddit and would appreciate your insights on a concerning health issue I’ve been experiencing. I previously reached out in a different thread, but I was advised to share my situation here as well. I’m a 27-year-old woman with a diagnosis of PCOS and currently have an IUD in place. Although I didn’t think pregnancy was possible for me, I do have a boyfriend and understand that nothing is ever completely off the table. On July 4th, I unexpectedly noticed a lump after wiping. This followed several days of severe back pain, cramps, and persistent nausea. After the lump appeared, I experienced light spotting along with significant nausea and vomiting. The lump itself is soft yet maintains its shape, setting it apart from a blood clot. I live quite far north in Canada, about 26 hours away from my primary care physician due to work commitments. It’s a remote area where healthcare resources are limited, with only rotating doctors available who are currently on summer break. When I went to the emergency room, the staff seemed unconcerned and did not perform an ultrasound to check the IUD's position. The facility is very rural, supported mainly by a nurse practitioner. I plan to return home soon, but my family doctor is fully booked for the next five weeks—a situation typical of the Canadian healthcare system. (No disrespect meant to my family in healthcare; I understand they are working within a flawed system!) The hospital informed me that I can expect an eight-week wait for any pathology results but assured me they did submit my sample for testing. Has anyone else dealt with a similar experience? If it turns out to be a polyp, what are the subsequent steps? Though it seems unlikely, could this possibly indicate a miscarriage? I’ve been reading various accounts online, and it’s making me anxious. Communication with licensed professionals has been difficult beyond talking with my mother and stepsister, who, while supportive, are limited in their ability to provide specific medical advice. It’s worth mentioning that both my mother and grandmother had a history of polyps and multiple miscarriages, which adds to my concern. Since my mom and I are both only children, I’m worried about any potential issues that could affect my future plans to become a biological mother. I'm planning to visit a clinic upon my return home, but I am hopeful someone here might offer insight or relate to my situation!
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 6:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your concerns about the lump you're experiencing, alongside the other symptoms. It’s understandable to feel anxious given your family history and the lack of immediate medical support. Here’s a brief overview of important points, along with guidance on what to do next.
Key Points:
- The lump you described, coupled with your symptoms, warrants further investigation, especially considering your medical history with PCOS and the IUD.
- Potential causes could include polyps, cysts, or other non-pregnancy-related issues, but monitoring and follow-up are essential.
- Your family history may increase your concern, but outcomes vary widely, and many factors influence these health issues.
Explanation:
The symptoms you’re experiencing, such as back pain, cramps, nausea, and the appearance of a lump, need careful consideration. Since you mentioned that your IUD is in place and pregnancy isn't expected, it's crucial to evaluate any abnormalities related to it.
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Polyp or Cyst: If it turns out to be a polyp, treatment generally involves monitoring, and in some cases, removal if it's causing problems or growing. Polyps do not necessarily affect fertility but should be managed appropriately.
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Miscarriage Concerns: While recent symptoms can cause concern about a miscarriage, the presence of a lump isn't definitive evidence of this. Your nausea and vomiting could also stem from other factors like hormonal changes associated with PCOS or stress.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in pain, the characteristics of the lump, bleeding, or any new symptoms like fever or severe discomfort. Documenting these can be helpful later on.
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Seek Immediate Care if Needed: Given your remote location, it’s crucial to reach out again if you experience severe pain, increased bleeding, or other concerning symptoms (like high fever).
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Follow Up After Coming Home: As you plan to visit a clinic upon returning, ensure to emphasize your symptoms, family history, and concerns about the lump. Request a proper evaluation, which may include an ultrasound or other imaging studies to clarify the situation.
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Focus on Support and Self-Care: It's natural to feel anxious. Consider reaching out to supportive friends or mental health resources that might help ease anxiety during this waiting period.
Staying informed and proactive about your health can empower you as you navigate the challenges of accessing care. If you have further questions or need reassurance on specific concerns, you can always reach out for more information.
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