Seton----help!

I'm not sure exactly where your outside fistula hole is, however, I have a rectal-vaginal fistula, so the seton runs along the perineum. I have found that if I overdo certain exercises, such as squats, lunges, etc., I will have some bleeding. It's not easy to know where the bleeding is actually coming from, but it's my suspicion that the pulling/rubbing of the seton on the exterior fistula opening causes the bleeding.

After the seton is placed, you may want to take a little time to let things settle/heal. And then slowly start your exercise program (with doctor's approval). You may find no problems at all, or there may be a few exercises you will have to be cautious with, or even avoid.

I'll add that the seton has not been a bad thing - I don't really know it's even there, and the drainage has nearly ended.

I wish you the best.

I am so thankful for your response....it makes it a little less scary. My opening will be beside my anal area.....there is a cut to the side that they had to do for the abscess.

Does it hurt to wipe? Thank you so much!!!

It does hurt once in a great while, if I pull or tug accidentally, or too hard - once again, it's the outside hole (the "v" side) that causes the few issues that I have had.

I strongly recommend a bidet - you can find a wide range of them, from a simple do-it-yourselfer (like mine: http://www.amazon.com/Luxe-MB1...=bidet+toilet+seat), or a bells and whistles: such as a toto - and everything in between. You will only have to gently pat dry after using the bidet, so you should have few problems in that area.

I was very nervous about having a seton, too, but physically - it's been a breeze.

If you have any other questions, feel free to pm me. Good luck!