Exploring the Need to Massage the Bladder Area
Hi there, I’m a 15-year-old female living with conditions such as hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (h-EDS), Tourette syndrome, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), along with experiencing seizures. Currently, my medication includes Zoloft, hydroxyzine, and triazolam. Importantly, I have never dealt with a urinary tract infection (UTI) or any issues concerning my bladder. Recently, I have noticed an unusual compulsion to massage the region around my bladder, especially when I feel the urge to urinate. Interestingly, this sensation occurs even when I don’t have a strong need to go to the bathroom. Given my clean medical slate regarding bladder health, this situation has left me puzzled. I’m curious why this is happening, particularly since the sensation seems to intensify during my menstrual cycle. Can anyone provide insight into this phenomenon?
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 9:20:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel puzzled about the urges you're experiencing, especially concerning sensations around the bladder area. There can be various reasons for your compulsion to massage that region, particularly since you have a few complex health conditions and are noticing patterns related to your menstrual cycle.
Main Points:
- The urge to massage your bladder area may be linked to sensory processing or discomfort.
- Your health conditions, particularly h-EDS and POTS, could contribute to unusual bodily sensations.
- Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle might influence these feelings.
Explanation:
Your hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (h-EDS) can affect how your nervous system processes sensations, leading to unusual feelings or urges in certain body areas. Additionally, POTS can cause changes in blood flow and pressure, which might make you more aware of your body during certain times or when you are feeling anxious. The menstrual cycle can also bring about fluctuations in hormones, potentially heightening your sensitivity or creating physical sensations that prompt you to want to massage your bladder area.
Next Steps:
-
Self-Monitoring: Keep a journal for a couple of weeks noting when the urge to massage occurs, especially in relation to your menstrual cycle, stress levels, and any physical symptoms. This can help identify potential triggers.
-
Mindfulness Techniques: Explore relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or gentle stretching to see if they alleviate the urge. This could help manage any anxiety or discomfort you may have.
-
Body Awareness Activities: Engage in activities like yoga or Pilates that enhance body awareness and may help you understand these sensations better.
-
Discuss with Trusted Adults: Share your observations with a parent or caregiver to see if they can help monitor your situation and consider discussing it with your healthcare provider at your next visit.
It's great that you're reaching out and seeking clarity. Understanding your body’s responses can be important as you navigate your health conditions. If the sensations continue or cause distress, a healthcare provider can offer more tailored advice.
Related Questions
Potential Bladder Concerns Linked to Urinary Tract Infection: Clinical Correlation Advised
A 22-year-old female patient presents with a medical history marked by idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and increased prolactin levels, attributed to cabergoline usage, with no indication of tumors. Recently, she underwent a pelvic ultrasound after experiencing several months of amenorrhea followed by a prolonged menstrual cycle. The examination confirmed that both her uterus and ovaries appeared normal; however, observations indicated a moderately enlarged urinary bladder exhibiting minimal internal echoes, which may be suggestive of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Notably, the patient reports no symptoms typically associated with UTIs. Additionally, she mentioned experiencing intermittent kidney discomfort over the last few years. Despite inquiries with her healthcare providers, the results of her metabolic panel remained within normal limits, and they advised her not to be concerned unless she experiences hematuria or difficulties with urination, neither of which she has faced. The patient now expresses anxiety regarding her condition, questioning whether her concerns are valid or if she is overanalyzing the situation.
Reasons for Considering a Kidney Biopsy and Potential Implications
Greetings, I’ll keep this concise as I share my health concerns. **Current Medications:** - **Trintellix** 10mg (for depression and anxiety) - **Qelbree** 100mg (for ADHD) - **Meloxicam** 15mg (for pain, as needed; advised by my nephrologist to limit usage to every 3-4 days, though I had been taking it daily) - **Tizanidine** 4mg (for pain, as needed) **Diagnosed Conditions:** - Endometriosis - Hypermobility (not a formal diagnosis) - Depression, anxiety, and ADHD I am a 24-year-old female classified as obese but not morbidly so. Over the past few years, I have been struggling with persistent joint pain, lower back pain, chronic fatigue, and a lingering cough that is most pronounced at night. My partner has noted that this cough has persisted since we met four years ago. I regularly consult my primary care physician, who noted a slightly elevated ESR at 27; this prompted a referral to a rheumatologist. Additionally, I have gynecological complications, including a recently confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis, for which I am slated for surgery soon. The rheumatologist and her physician assistant have expressed uncertainty about my condition, as my lab results have generally returned normal (ANA negative, RF negative, etc.), and I show no visible signs of joint inflammation. The possibility of fibromyalgia has been raised, and a second rheumatologist also concurred, suggesting that I may have sleep apnea—something I am open to but prefer to investigate further before finalizing. A routine urinalysis revealed trace amounts of protein and 2+ occult blood. Subsequent testing showed a mild increase in urine albumin to creatinine ratio at 32. I planned to monitor this situation. A follow-up test indicated 1+ protein in the urine (no blood), which was concerning. My PCP had referred me to a nephrologist due to the earlier trace protein result, leading to the scheduling of an appointment. After extensive lab testing, results returned largely normal, including no protein presence in my urine, aside from elevated ASO antibody levels (366) and some variations like monocytosis, which seems normal for me. The nephrologist mentioned the potential of IgA nephropathy and ANCA-related vasculitis, but tests for both were negative. A kidney ultrasound revealed increased echogenicity of both renal cortices; I understand this could suggest kidney disease or be within normal limits. Though I don't recall any recent strep infection, bloodwork suggests otherwise. I often feel unwell, so I might not notice symptoms if I do contract something. Could post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis be a consideration? Recently, I experienced a spike in blood pressure, hitting 181/85; I contemplated an emergency visit, but my pressure eventually returned to the 120s, albeit with a bad headache. This was unusual for me, as my blood pressure typically tends to be on the lower side. I also have mixed hyperlipidemia, likely of genetic origin given my family history. The nephrologist has suggested that a kidney biopsy may be necessary, and I feel anxious about the procedure and the associated pain. Based on what I’ve described, does it seem likely that a biopsy is warranted? Furthermore, considering this information, what could potentially be the underlying issue, and what steps should I take next to clarify my health situation (aside from focusing on weight management, diet, and exercise)? Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Presence of Blood in Urine
From time to time, I experience blood in my urine. Initially, I assumed this was due to dehydration. However, despite increasing my water intake significantly, the issue persists. I’ve already reached out to my physician for advice, but I’m curious if anyone else has experienced this. I'm a 38-year-old male, struggling with obesity, and currently taking Citalopram. My recent doctor's visit in November included lab tests, which all returned normal results. Prior to adjusting my hydration levels, I encountered an unusual symptom where my urination would intermittently stop, requiring me to exert pressure to complete the process. Thankfully, that issue has resolved since I've been more diligent about drinking water.
Ongoing UTI Concerns - Seeking Guidance
Hello, I am a 25-year-old female experiencing persistent urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms, particularly characterized by urine that has an unusual odor and the presence of white particles. Notably, I haven’t felt any discomfort or burning during urination. After undergoing a urine culture, I was diagnosed with an E. coli UTI and received a prescription for Keflex at a dosage of 500mg taken four times a day for five days to eliminate the infection. It has now been a week since I completed my Keflex treatment, yet I continue to notice white particles in my urine, and the foul smell seems to be returning. I conducted another urine culture recently and am currently waiting on the results. I’m anxious to understand what steps I should take next as this situation is quite unsettling for me. Additionally, I had blood tests done to assess my kidney function, and fortunately, all results came back normal.
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels in Post-Viral Testing
Subject: 28-year-old female from Australia, not on any regular medications. Recently, I underwent blood tests in an effort to understand some lingering symptoms following a viral infection. Since contracting Influenza A during the second week of December 2025, I have been experiencing persistent symptoms such as body aches, fatigue, frequent headaches, a cough, and occasional night sweats. A home rapid test confirmed I had Flu A, which was corroborated by my husband's hospital test results, ruling out Covid-19 and Flu B among other illnesses. Unfortunately, after the initial acute phase, I have struggled to feel well. While there was a brief improvement in symptoms over the Christmas period, they intensifed again in January. To manage the discomfort, I've been taking ibuprofen nearly every day since mid-January, although I try to limit the dosage. My job involves prolonged sitting, yet I remain fairly active with around three gym sessions a week, predominantly involving moderate-intensity workouts. Although I can still exercise, I find recovery to be significantly more challenging. Additionally, as a mother to two young children under five, my sleep varies considerably. Despite this, I strive to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet, and my alcohol consumption is minimal, approximately one to two drinks per month. I’ve attached a segment of my blood test results for reference. I am scheduled to see my GP tomorrow, but I am particularly anxious about the significantly elevated levels of some liver enzymes, such as ALT, which is over ten times the normal upper limit. I would greatly appreciate any insights into these results, enabling me to formulate relevant questions for my doctor and ensuring I don’t feel rushed during the consultation.