I've had a nagging, leaky recto-vaginal fistula since last June. I've been trying to ignore it and it's not getting any better. How it was discovered was with a nasty abcess that burst and put me in the hospital. Anyway, i've developed lower back pain in that area for which i'm not sure if there is any relation with the fistula. The back pain is very low, almost in line with the fistula but in my back. The burning pain is at night while i'm trying to sleep. Get this, if I lie on my sides it hurts like crazy, if I lie on my back, the pressure is relieved a bit. I am so sick of this fistula causing me so many problems. I'm trying to recall if I wrenched my back at all this winter but can't, that's the reason for me blaming the fistula. Has anyone ever had anything like this? The pain wakes me out of a sound sleep. It's a burning, gnawing pain. I thought it might be sciatica but i can't recall hurting myself. I am going to schedule an appointment with my doctor but don't know if she will be able to do anything about it. Has anyone ever had anything like this?

Could it be an abscess from the fistula? Do you have to run to the bathroom a lot more than usual? It may be pouchitis / cuffitis. That usually causes a more diffuse pain that doesn't get better by changing positions, though.
Any fever? Still would talk to the doctor about the possibility of an abscess.
Best,
Annie