Unexpected Vaginal Bleeding at 71 Post-Hysterectomy: Seeking Advice

Hi, I'm 71 years old. I've had my colostomy for 7 months. Thirty years ago, I had a total hysterectomy including the cervix. I noticed today fresh blood spotting from my vagina and some odor. I am old, and I thought it could be from vaginal atrophy. I always thought discharge from a fistula was dark in color. I called my doctor and was told that she's away for 6 weeks and I can't see anyone else for around a month. Although I do have an appointment with my stoma nurse in a few days, has anyone else had this?

Thanks, Sally.

Hi, I don't know all the ins and outs of the healthcare system there... but if you're having bleeding that is not normal, can you go to the emergency room/urgent care? Not sure what you call it there. Can you call/message your stoma nurse about it now? Don't wait till next week. When you have bleeding for an unexplained reason, I would not wait for care. You should not have to wait 6 weeks with the symptoms you're having.

They didn't put a stent into your bladder/urethra, did they, during your surgery? They did for me, and it can cause bleeding sometimes due to it being irritating to your existing tissue there.

Hi Sally,

I work in a GP setting and I would highly recommend that you request an urgent appointment with a female GP who can examine and perform a smear. XX

Don't ask to see a doctor; demand to see a doctor. Regards, Iggie

Hi Iggie,

Unfortunately, we are unable to demand an appointment here in the UK. For Sally or anyone else having these symptoms, she will, of course, be prioritized and seen ASAP. Demand does nothing but cause animosity.

Please take Crappy and Kaz's advice and see your GP. Come back on and let us know what is going on with you.

Then God help the patient.

Auxiliary Care - How Did You Go On?

Had that happen to me (I had rectal cancer, permanent colostomy). Cancer came back, I too had a hysterectomy. Cancer went to my vagina and my stoma. Please don't wait to get help. I wish you the best. Be blessed, Linda