Blood in stool - what would GP do?

[SearchingforSleep]

Sorry for the grim subject...

I've passed a big blob of bright red blood in a bowel movement today. There was no pain at all and I don't have piles that I'm aware of but I'm really hoping it is something non-sinister like that that has caused it.

I'm going to get checked out at the GP but just wondered whether anyone can tell me what she is likely to do? Should I take a stool sample? Will she do an examination?? Our DC are at the same school (although different years) so I have to see her at the school gate.

She will ask questions and may want to look, but if you are not sore down there she may not need to look. If it’s a one off occurrence and bright red blood then prob nothing too much to worry about. Maybe internal piles, they can bleed but be painless.

She will do a rectal examination and possible ask for a sample, depending on the results of the examination. I wouldn't take a sample with you as she will give you a suitable container if she wants to send one off, then you usually just return it to the surgery the next day.

I know the examination is a bit embarrassing, but it will be over quickly and it's so important. All the best. I hope there's a simple and harmless explanation

The examination doesn't take long and is as dignified as that can be! It may be piles...my Dr didn't find anything so I had to have a colonoscopy which just revealed piles. Do go and get it checked out

Thanks very much for being reassuring and sharing your experiences. I am definitely getting it checked out. Glad there was a harmless explanation, Summat.

Also remember about GPs, they themselves have to go and have smears and have people prodding about at their intimate bits as well. So they know from their own experience about how it can feel embarrassing for people.