Why Do I Have A Vvf

Hi everyone..
I'm new to this. But the advice on this site seems the best! I am 41 and have just been diagnosed as having a vvf earlier this week. My GP was able to see it quite clearly with a speculum. I knew I had a problem, I always seem to pass urine through my vagina and have tampons soaked in urine. Although I guessed it was a vvf, (I'm a midwife), I have ignored it for 2 years. Mostly because I didn't think it was possible for me to have one. I have had no abdominal or vaginal surgery, and my last child was born normally 15 years ago. I also have fibroids and need a hysterectomy.
Is it possible to have a spontaneous vvf, or does there have to be a cause? I have had blood in my urine for the last 3 years which has never been investigated. I wonder now if this is because the urine is released vaginally?
My GP has referred me to gynae, but I feel that I dont get any support. Both my GP and nurse said to me, 'well, you're a midwife, you know about these things'.. but I don't know enough. My biggest question is ..how did it get there!!!
Of course in the middle of the night when everyone is asleep my mind works overtime. I do worry it could be cancer of the bladder especially with blood in my urine, ( I had a normal pap test last year, so its couldn't be cervical) But I smoke and drink. I also have a very weak left leg! I'm sure this cant be connected unless anyone knows otherwise.

You are all an inspiration, you remain positive and keep your sense of humour. Its so good that this group can talk openly about these things. I did think I was alone in this.
Angela

Hi Angela!

I am so sorry to hear you have been diagnosed with a VVF. I don't know how you managed to put up with it for 2 years.

I have not heard of a fistula happening spontaneously, only through childbirth, surgical damage or through some cancer treatments that can cause them e.g. radiotherapy, but I am not an expert. However, I do feel you should be referred to a Urologist, someone who is experienced in fistula repair, and a Urologist would also try to establish the cause I would think.

I am a RN and I know what you mean about the medical profession 'presuming' you already know the answers. It can be very frustrating and in the past I have actually tried to hide the fact that I am a Nurse because I have found I get more information that way! But as a nurse you know how important it is to get as many answers as you can, so don't be afraid to ask lots of questions! We always think the worst, I had managed to convince myself that my bladder would never function normally again, but thankfully that is not the case, everything is now fine.

Please pursue this with your Dr and see a Uro you are comfortable with. If you have surgery at least you know that fistulas can be fixed, you won't have to put up with leaking forever. There are a lot of fistula sisters who can support you too.

Best wishes, let us know how you go.

Blossom