Abdominal pain after POP surgery

[Ishy20]

I am 48, about 8 weeks out from sacrocolcopexy, hysterectomy and bladder sling. It was laparoscopic with 5 incisions. I have been to 2 post op appointments and have complained at both that I have a pain on left side that comes and goes - stabbing and lasts for a few minutes each time - maybe 20 times a day. The Gyn has said that it is not related to Gyn issues since the pain is not constant. This week the pain is worse. When I use my abdomal muscles like sitting up from bed, getting up from a chair, bending over - it shoots a pain that is horrible. I don't know how to approach this with my Gyn since he has ignored it in the last 2 visits or should I just go to my PCP. I have other medical problems but nothing in this area except this recent surgery. Please, any help would be appreciated. Could it be a hernia?  A complication from the surgery?  

[flyaway13]

Hello Ishy20.  I know having pain that is not addressed is very discouraging.  I have been taking pain meds for over a year and a half for a back injury I sustained at work.  I found that trying to get a doctor to listen to me and take me seriously was hard.  I was treated like some kind of "drug seeker" from the very beginning which made dealing with the pain even worse.  I was finally referred to a "pain control" physician who put me on a mild Vicodin dosage but it relieved my pain.  In reading your comments; have you considered that your physician may be in that mindset as well?  I have done a lot of research about the subject and it appears because of the FDA's pressure on them; many doctors are suspicious of anyone who comes in with pain!  It is disheartening and it looks as if it will just get worse with the new opinions of pain medication like Vicodin.  I wish you success in your search to find a doctor who will take your pain seriously.  Take care.

[UKlady1001]

I agree with summer59.  I assume your gyne is a Urogyne and suggest you see another Urogyne.  If your present Dr doesnt want to deal with your symptoms and closes the door on discussion on this matter they may:
1. Not want to deal with post op problems
2. Be correct that it isnt to do with the op, but not be able or ot wish to help you to find the answer.
3. Be out of their comfort zone in terms of their scope of knowledge concerning your present symptoms.

All of the above point to finding another Urogyne.  You may wish to find a fellowship trained urogyne if you are in the USA.  If you can find a recommended one you know is good then this would be good.
Speak to your own Dr as well to see if they know any good Urogynes for a second opinion.

I hope this helps

[summer59]

I am so sorry you are experiencing this type of pain.  Being 8 weeks out I wonder if it is related to your surgery and may be a nerve issue or maybe even scar tissue.  I had that same feeling only on my right side after gallbladder removal and had all kinds of tests that showed nothing.  I was diagnosed with scar tissue.  Since you are in pain I believe that you need to find a doctor who takes you seriously and maybe has you take some diagnostic tests.  Did your gyn do your surgery?  If so it might be a good idea to follow up with a different doctor.  You can try your PCP first and maybe get a referral.  I don't know what your other medical problems are but it might be beneficial to look into a consultation with a urogynecologist.  I also had similar prolapse surgery three months ago and am discovering how even successful surgery can play a part in muscle,nerve and cross over into other medical problems.  I think it is a good idea to see another doctor especially since the gyn you saw is not as concerned as you are.  Pain needs to be checked out.  Please keep in touch