Made the appt to see Urologist

Hey ladies, I'm still lurking around here, trying to learn what I can. I got the referral today and called to make an appt.

Now I'm nervous...first the doc is male. I have "issues" and haven't been comfy with male docs. Having one in "that" area...just the thought is stressing me out.

Second, they said on the first appt the doc will insert a camera the size of a cath to see if there's anything visual he can pick up on. At first I Thought ok, I can handle that...but they didn't say what SIZE cath lol In my mind I was thinking the size of what I've used at home...but now I'm worried again.

Third, any tips for dealing with this until the appt? (it's not for 3 or 4 weeks) I've stopped drinking after 9-10 pm, usually go to the bathroom at least 3 times before going to sleep. Still having issues during the night while I'm sleeping (and only at that time) I'm waking up at least twice during the night...usually 3 times.

I stopped self-cathing because i wasn't voiding anything with it...but I'm going to try again and see what happens. Last night i went to the bathroom at 11, then again at 11:30 before falling asleep. Dozed off for a bit then woke up at 12:30...figured I'd go again for good measure. An hour later I was up and changing the sheets!! I need sleep for crying out loud!

Vega,


Did they say cystoscopy for the cath-sized camera? If so -- they put a numbing gel in your urethra before they put the scope in. You will feel a pinch when they put in the scope. Afterward they will probably give you cipro or another antibiotic so you don't get a UTI. You may have a small amount of bleeding for the next day, and a little burning upon urination.

As for the male urologist -- when my new primary care sent me to see a new uro, I asked if she would find me a female. She told me they are quite rare :-( but she did send me to someone who specializes in female problems.

I do know what you mean about being tired of people poking around "down there". I went to a teaching hospital for 2 of my surgeries, so you have the uro, and then the chief resident, a 4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st year medical student alll come with the package. All men (boys??). However, I will say the care I got from them was excellent.

Take care,

Dee

Hello!

Boy, can I relate! I refused to let my uro/gyn do ANY cathing - I was petrified. He forward my IC Questionaire to a Urologist and I'm waiting to hear back from him. Anyway, my plan with the urologist is to let him know the cystoscope will be a one shot deal - he can do a biopsy, hydrodestension, take a look around - whatever but only once and while I'm out - no more bravery for me - I'm pretty much toast from all these procedure "down there".

Can you take something to relax you - Ativan or Valium? Also, I would call the urologist office and ask them exactly how he does the procedure - does he use the numbing gel? How long will it take? I really feel the more we are prepared the less the anxiety - I don't like it when a doctor takes a storm trouper approach - and I hate suprises. So maybe a call to the office would help allay your anxiety.

Keep us posted!

Thanks ladies...they didn't mention the numbing part. Actually they didn't tell me the name of the proceedure either. I asked what would happen at the first appt and she more explained it. (that's how I prefer things, let me understand what you're saying lol)

I had a choice of 2 docs that I was referred to, both were male. *sigh* But I didn't want to go outside of the referral because I trust my gyne/onco, and she's the one who sent me to them.

Will I feel him moving the scope around? Or does the numbing gel take care of that? I won't be able to take any meds for nerves because I'll be driving myself there and back...and going to work afterwards (will I be able to go to work after?)

I'm going to call them when the appt is a little closer to go over the details of what to expect.

Hi Vega....I can only speak from my experience. After I had my cystoscopy where they put the camera in your bladder, I was sore the rest of the day. I would not have been able to work. Good luck and best wishes to you..Lisa