See All
Preferences
My Communities
My Discussions
My Email Digests

I have now had the results come back from the biopsy of the small polyp found during the colonoscopy and that was completely benign. SO, all results from that test were NEGATIVE.
The prepping for the lower GI (barium enema) that followed just one week later was not fun (once was enough), and I was not blissfully asleep as I was for the colonoscopy, but I was glad to have it over with. They told me nothing at the time (a radiologist assistant did it), but the gyno-oncologist specialist office called me the very next day. After panicking that it must be "bad news" to get the call so quickly, I discovered that this test was also "entirely negative" with no indication of any fistula nor disease.
SO, the conclusion of the doctor is that there is no fistula that can be detected, and that I should just "leave it alone" unless there are additional symptoms. The radiologist tech told me during my barium study that "we often have to do a test that looks through the vagina to find small fistulas" but the doctor does not think that is necessary for me. Since the occassional passage of gas via the vaginal track does not really cause me problems, that is OK with me.
The nurse's final comment to me during our phone conversation: "Lots of women have this....they just don't talk about it." Although something about this whole thing does not ring true, I do not want to push this any farther. My own reading and research suggests that the "fix" for a fistula is more problematic than my symptoms, so even IF we did find it, I would be better off doing nothing. So, as long as we have ruled out any malignancy as a cause, I say case closed!
Thanks so much for having this forum. It helped to be able to find some information during those weeks while I was waiting for my appointments!View Thread

I wanted to continue my tale, in case others who are in the same boat are searching for some reassurance.
I just had my colonoscopy and, other than one small polyp HIGHER up in the colon (that is probably of no concern), the exam was completely normal. So, NOTHING in the colon that would contribute to a fistula. The GI doc told me that a small fistula might not show up on the colonoscopy, BUT a disease process that would cause it surely would have. So, the bottom line is that there is nothing in the colon that would cause it.
We have now eliminated any gyno cancers, any inflamation of the bowel and any colon/rectal cancers. So, since I have not had any surgeries, IF there is a fistula, it must be an injury that occurred during the forcep birth (with episiatomy) of my son 13 years ago!
I am going to have the barium enema next Monday...and we shall see if that shows anything. It is interesting to me that, after the colonoscopy, when the air that they pumped into the colon was being expelled, a small bit seemed to pass from the vagina canal. That seems pretty conclusive to me! The Gyno-Oncologist seemed to suggest that it might be that the pressure of me attempting to pass gas the typical way may be pushing out the air from the vaginal canal also. Hopefully, the BE will tell the tale. IF so, the issue will be whether I will be advised to "leave it alone" or do something about it.
Thanks for this forum,View Thread


Thank you for your response. Since I have not passed ANY stool, just gas...and the Gyn Nurse Practioner could not see any opening upon exam (using her purple glove and looking along the vaginal canal), I am hoping that it is SMALL. Also, the charcoal/tampon test resulted in what looked like a small spot of light brown on the very LOW end (by the string) of the tampon. I have not had any vaginal infections or pain....until I tried to use a tampon for this test....and it seemed to adhere to the walls from being so DRY in there! When I pulled it out, it caused some irritation...and very light red staining on the tampon. I have had "0" bleeding since stopping periods about 2 years ago..not a single "spotting" incident up to now. The Nurse-Practioner also screened me for blood in stool...and it was negative. My GYNO is referring me to a doctor in his practice who he says handles "less common cases", but it is freaking me out because this doctor is a GYNO-ONCOLOGIST. They assured me that they are not suspecting cancer....but being a "part-time hypochrondriac" (I only focus upon worries about disease when something like this happens), I am now in the internet researching for anything that might reassure myself that there is another reason beside cancer for this situation. I am truly in a PANIC....and can think of nothing else. What I am trying to find out is whether a gyno or recto cancer could cause THIS with no other bleeding or such? AND ...whether this would have been going on for three years without other bothersome symptoms? If you can comment on any of that, I would be SO appreciative. I have my appointment in a week....but I wish I could convince myself not to immediately go to the worst possible explanation.
Thank you.View Thread

Thank you for any encouragement you can provide!View Thread

I am also up tonight researching and your story really connected with me. I am also 53...well, now I am 54 since it was my birthday yesterday...and I had scheduled my annual GYNO appointment. I mentioned to her this strange passing of gas through the vaginal canal, thinking it must be some menopausal weirdness (I had had air from that area in my younger more "active" years after intercourse, so I did not think it would be any big deal), but when I explained that there was an odor involved and was happening more often, she told me that "it was not normal" and mentioned RVF. I am doing some low tech test right now that she suggested....taking charcoal tablets and wearing a tampon to see if there is any leakage into the vagina. I am also reading everything I can get my hands on and am in a total panic. I also am a "late in life" mom to a 13 year old! Since I have read that this condition is most often a result of a vaginal birth, I am doubting whether this could show up 13 years (well....maybe 10 years....since I think I first noticed this about 3 years ago very occassionally) AFTER giving birth. They used forceps and I think I had an episiotomy...but all healed normally, as far as I know. SO, of course now I am thinking that a fistula must be cancer related, since I have no other condition associated with it. I am wondering (hoping) if I had a small weakening from childbirth all these years and the changes of menopause caused it to weaken further? I know that it will still be cause for concern if surgery is the only answer, BUT at this point I would be so relieved to find out that is all it is...
Sorry for all the rest you are dealing with. I cannot imagine how tough that must be. Today, I have a new view of the (minor) worries that have been on my mind....ten extra pounds...hot flashes....a teenageer....etc. Thank you for reading this and any encouragement you can provide.View Thread
See Related Women's Health Communities
Women's Health Newsletter
Find out what women really need.
Other Women's Health Information
More Related Communities
The opinions expressed in WebMD User-generated content areas like communities, reviews, ratings, or blogs are solely those of the User, who may or may not have medical or scientific training. These opinions do not represent the opinions of WebMD. User-generated content areas are not reviewed by a WebMD physician or any member of the WebMD editorial staff for accuracy, balance, objectivity, or any other reason except for compliance with our Terms and Conditions. Some of these opinions may contain information about treatments or uses of drug products that have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.
Do not consider WebMD User-generated content as medical advice. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your care plan or treatment. WebMD understands that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource, but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified health care provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 immediately.
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.

