TMI - infection? and how to choose a doctor?

[hariah]

So I've been using my cup for three cycles now, and it's great!
But during the duration I've gotten more worried about a preexisting set of symptoms. Based on internet research I think it's some kind of infection.

Comments

[namelessw0nder]

Is there a Planned Parenthood in your area? They often have sliding scale payment plans based on income.

The first issue you described of the pain during urination sounds like a urinary tract infection. If your at-home treatment doesn't work, those really need to be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a physician. It can be really dangerous to leave those untreated.

The discharge could be something completely unrelated and not worrisome, but best to see a doctor and have them check it out.

[kuradi8]

Yes, it's time to see a doctor. If you don't have health insurance, then Planned Parenthood or other women's clinic would be a good choice. If you do have health insurance, then it depends on your policy. Some say that you have to see your GP first to get a referral for a Gyno/specialist. With others, you can go straight to a Gyno/specialist without having to be dispatched first.

[carrieb]

Sounds like the first two comments have you covered. Definitely get yourself checked out. I also wanted to mention the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility. It is a great read that all women should read. The clear mucus is most likely your cervical mucus and it is an indicator of your fertility. Even if you have no desire to procreate, this book is an excellent read and will teach you so much more than you ever learned in school.

[juliiie87]

What you describe about the discharge in your cup (the not smelly one) is perfectly normal. The vagina is self-cleaning yadda-yadda, and therefore produces fluids, which can vary based on where you are in you cycle, and that production increases when you have sex of any kind, so I'm not at all suprised there. However, fishy smell indicates an infection, in your case urinary (UTI) and that needs to be treated, a GP or planned parenthood or a sexual health clinic, whoever you prefer can do it. The pain is worrisome, could it be that the infection is spreading ? however if it were really bad I'd think there would be more frequent pain and temperature... the bloody discharge is also a bit peculiar, could it be a side-effect of birth control pills ? if not then I'd get it checked as well.