Feeling stupid - but also a bit worried (bowels)

[Fudgingit85]

I always seem to find something to worry myself about. This time I’ve been stupid and I’m kicking myself and wanted some advice.

A few months back I noticed I was going to the loo a little more than often. Sometimes (but not always) 2-3 times a day. Not diarrhoea but soft. Contacted doctor who sent me for bloods (which came back fine). He also asked me to give a stool sample. For one reason or another, I didn’t get around to it (I know, I know!!) and during that time I’d decided that the issue was due to stress (my stomach always reacts when I’m stressed/worried/nervous) so sort of forgot about it.

I know I’m a bloody idiot and should’ve just done the stool sample.

Anyway now, I’m still having the same issue with the loo visits. It doesn’t really bother me or interfere with my life but because I ALWAYS have to fixate on something, I’m worrying about it again.

Should I just contact the doctor and ask if I could have another sample kit? I just feel a bit sheepish as I expect they’ll (rightly) be annoyed with me for not doing it the first time but I know that’s not a good reason to ignore it. And would I have other symptoms if it was something to worry about?

Yes contact the surgery get another sample and hand it in, If they happen to mention the last sample just say it had settled down or something. You might have developed an intolerance or IBS I use colpermin capsules if I'm having a bad spell,

Hey I would definitely phone up and ask again. Just explain that last time it cleared up so you thought it was ok but now it's come back. Im the same as you with worrying so I know what it's like and I think you will worry until you know things are ok!x

The GP will likely have forgotten. All you need to say should they ask is that personal circumstances happened and you lost the sample but realise you should have put your own health as priority.

My dad had bowel cancer and ignored symptoms for 18 months thinking it would go away or putting it down to something else. He survived but with much more complications and effects on mobility than he would have done had he just gone to the Dr.

Honestly, the GP will think very little of it; both the issue of asking again and looking at your bum.
Don't die of embarrassment.

Thank you all! Right, I’ll stop being an idiot and just ask for another sample. I’m annoyed at myself as I hate to waste anyone’s time but you’re right, I shouldn’t ignore it.

Doctors’ surgery didn’t bat an eyelid and just told me to use the forms and sample bottles they gave me last time. Times like this I do feel really grateful for the NHS.

Unless you are in pain it's likely a bit.of IBS, OP. I use colpermin as well.

Excellent. I'm sure it'll be nothing but always best to give yourself peace of mind.

Thanks all.
I don’t have any pain. Just hoping it’s a bout of sensitivity.

Heres hoping it's nothing.

Thank you @Mrsjayy