Hi lynn,

Thank you for responding with ideas and the informative link.

I did have one bladder infection this past year, but I was put on antibiotics a few times, just to be sure that the infection was gone (even though test results were clean, IM doc chose better safe than sorry method).

I had actually thought that my bladder had dropped because the pain is so low and sharp. But the Gyn found my bladder up high. That was a surprise to me, especially since I don't really have anything left to hold the bladder up. But, apparently that isn't a cause either.

I don't know if I have been tested for gluten problems. I don't drink soda at all. I am a water drinker and a couple cups of milk daily for calcium.

My bm's are very firm and constipated. I can't figure that part of it out either ~ as I get daily exercise, eat whole grains, fruits and veggies, and drink lots of water. I have tried drinking Benefiber, but I haven't had any real positive results yet & it's awfully sweet. So, I'm not drinking it regularly.

I have also looked into interstitial cystitis, and can relate to a lot of the symptoms. None of the doctors have pointed out that possibility ~ maybe because I don't have the "burning" sensation?? I don't know

I felt this way a few months ago and canceled my appointments, feeling that they were pointless. The misery of the last month gave me motivation to find some relief and I scheduled today's appointment with the Gyn. Now he feels that the urologist would be more suited to look into the cause. And I feel like giving up again.

I actually find myself wishing that I could have a catheter, so I wouldn't have to feel like this anymore. My bm's remain a mystery. The GI doc didn't seem real interested in my case either. He said that I'm getting older and it isn't unusual for people my age to have to get up in the night to pee. Went on to say that there's absolutely no connection between bladder and bowel troubles, so move on. Whatever....I'm So tired of this mess. Now I'm feeling sorry for myself, so I'll be quiet.

Thanks again for your quick response with the links!