[41F] With vaginal and rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and history of IBS-C

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential diagnoses to consider:

Vaginal and Rectal Bleeding

• Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures: Given the association with defecation and the presence of blood on toilet paper, hemorrhoids or anal fissures could be a cause. These are common in people with constipation and can cause significant bleeding.
• Gynecological Issues: The sudden onset of heavy vaginal bleeding could be related to your IUD, even if you haven't had issues with it before. Other possibilities include hormonal imbalances or uterine fibroids.
• Gastrointestinal Conditions: Conditions like diverticulosis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) could cause both rectal bleeding and abdominal pain.

Abdominal Pain and Constipation

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-C): Your history of IBS-C could explain the constipation and abdominal pain. However, the sharp and cramping nature of the pain, along with the bleeding, suggests that there might be another underlying issue.
• Diverticulitis: This condition involves inflammation or infection of small pouches in the digestive tract and can cause sharp pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.

Low-Grade Fever and Nausea

• Infection: The presence of a low-grade fever and nausea could indicate an infection, possibly related to the gastrointestinal or gynecological systems.

What you can do

Vaginal and Rectal Bleeding

• Seek Medical Attention: Given the severity and sudden onset of your symptoms, it's important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may perform a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies to determine the cause.
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of the amount and frequency of bleeding, as well as any other symptoms like pain or changes in bowel movements. You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms and share this information with your provider.

Abdominal Pain and Constipation

• Dietary Changes: Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help alleviate constipation. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Over-the-Counter Remedies: Consider using over-the-counter stool softeners or laxatives to help with constipation, but consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
• Pain Management: Apply a warm compress to your abdomen to help relieve cramping. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can also be helpful, but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can worsen bleeding.

Low-Grade Fever and Nausea

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you're experiencing nausea.
• Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body recover.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for serious underlying conditions, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Heavy or persistent bleeding
• Fainting or dizziness
• Signs of infection, such as high fever or chills

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to continue the conversation.