Swollen Lymph Nodes???

[soscared675]

I am worried because a few weeks ago, I had protected sex with a new partner.  However, when he pulled out, the condom stayed inside.  Semen was still in the condom when I removed it.  I am scared about how much semen, if any, remained inside of me.  Now I am noticing 'something' on the inside of my vagina.  I am not sure if it is a swollen lypmh node.  It is red, about 2 inches long, tender, and can be seen when looking inside my vagina.  I am so paranoid, that I am looking in there everyday.  He said he was clean, but I know that what I am seeing is not normal.  My greatest fear is HIV, I read that swollen lymph nodes was a symptom.  I tried to be very careful, but accidents happen.  I have an appointment on Monday, but for now, if there is anyone who may have any idea of what is going on, please let me know.  Also, if there are any suggestions on questions I should ask at my appointment, please share.

[auntiejessi]

Oh if you don't have a cervix or uterus, PP is the better place to go - they are better with women's issues than an std clinic might be.

Good luck.

Aj

[soscared675]

Thanks! There's a PP in the area that works on grants so there shouldn't be any costs.  I can't wait until Monday, but I I have to.  I noticed a discharge earlier, but it's only on the inside and I have to look.  There is nothing coming out onto my panties, they are always clean. There is also no itching nor odor. I no longer have cervix or uterus, but I do have my ovaries.  Read on this site about discharge during ovulation.  Don't know!!! Anyway PLEASE Pray for me!

[auntiejessi]

Yes, Planned Parenthood is awesome.

You might also look for an std clinic - they might be cheaper.

Aj

[soscared675]

Thanks! I am so stressing.  I can see on this site that I am not the only one.  Why do we all worry after the fact? Well, I will be going to a Planned Parenthood to get tested.  I don't have a private doctor.  Do you think a clinic as such is reliable?  Thanks again!

[auntiejessi]

Lizzie is usually telling people to not worry about HIV because of their risks, and she's been right every time I've seen her.

I don't think she was talking about HIV here, but about whatever you have going on vaginally.  HIV wouldn't cause a single sore spot like you have, so she was just saying you need to see your doctor for a diagnosis.

To be honest, I don't know how to tell if you have swollen glands.  Every time I've thought my glands were HUGE and visibly swollen, my doctor has said "oh well you have some minor inflammation here", so I think swollen glands are best left for the doctors to determine.  I think trying to find them on yourself is hard to do.

Aj

[soscared675]

Now I'm scared.  On most of your (Lizzie Lou) responses you tend to give a 'don't worry'.  Oh well...

I've heard you say that 3 months is sufficient time for a positive result, and I've heard elsewhere that it takes 6 months.  Any idea on that?  

I've decided to go without sex until I can get a definate answer.  Too worried to be thinking about that anyway.  Thanks for all your input! It's in God's hands now.

[LIZZIE LOU]

only a doctor can diagnose you.

[soscared675]

Just wanted to say thanks for your response.  Could you, or anyone tell me what swollen glands look like.  I hate to admit that, at my age, I still don't know much about these things.  I was in a committed relationship for a VERY long time, and have just started dating again.  So, the idea of something happening so soon, is so scary.  Point being, I don't know what swollen glands look like or where to look, I don't know what to look for in any scenario.  There is no pain or irritation in that area, except after I use the restroom, when I wipe, for a minute or two it will feel irritated.  I know that sounds personal, but if it helps someone tell me something.  I don't have any discharge either, no bumps or sores.  I did have a sore throat, scary, so if that helps any.  The first appointment available is next week due to my schedule as well.  I hate waiting till then, but I must.

[auntiejessi]

You aren't even sure if this is a swollen gland, and I think if you can, you need to be seen sooner.  I don't think this is HIV - if it was, you'd have swollen glands in other places, too.

This sounds like it might be a cyst of some kind, but you need to get it checked out.  Call your doctor and tell them you have symptoms that might be an std (and I don't know that it is, but it gets you in faster, or should), and see if they can get you in faster.

AJ