Menstrual Irregularities and Pain: A Comprehensive Guide

(I apologize for the lengthy text; I'm afraid I might miss something that could lead to a misjudgment, as there are some issues that my family is not aware of, which is why I have been hesitant to seek medical attention or ask questions.)

I have been experiencing menstrual pain for two weeks, which is 14 days, but my period has not arrived.
I generally have poor health and have been diagnosed with infertility.
My boyfriend and I have a high frequency of sexual activity, almost every few days, but about one or two months ago, I experienced severe pain in my uterus during intercourse, to the point where I couldn't continue.
A few months ago, I was supposed to receive a cervical vaccine but have not done so; could this be affecting my situation?
My menstrual cycle has always been irregular.
I used to consume a lot of cold foods and drinks.
Initially, my periods would come every few months, or they would suddenly start during sexual activity or exercise.
I once took birth control pills, which caused my period to start, and I was informed that this was normal.
However, recently, I have experienced two periods in one month or continuous bleeding.
The menstrual pain has gradually developed over time.
My previous cycles were also irregular, and I rarely had noticeable symptoms before my period, with very little breast tenderness, but I did experience nipple pain.

I may have been pregnant in the past and had a miscarriage; at that time, I only noticed a clear, white discharge.
Since I was young, I often had thick, white discharge even before engaging in sexual activity.
I didn't pay much attention to these issues back then, although I felt anxious.
Due to other stressors and emotions, I didn't have the energy to address these concerns.
I often overeat due to stress.
When I was 16, I went through a month of fasting and not drinking water, but later improved and started consuming vegetable juices like Pommy.
Shortly after, I returned to a normal diet, and during that time, I lost about 5 kilograms over nearly two months.
I also experienced issues with depression, but I resisted seeking medical help for mental health, so I managed to improve on my own.

Now, my daily routine and mental health are relatively normal, and my stress levels have decreased, along with improvements in my mood.
Could all of these factors be affecting my current situation?

Shuǐ lí, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/01

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Although there are many issues, they should still be solvable.
It is advisable to consult with an obstetrician-gynecologist and a psychiatrist.
Severe pain in the uterus during sexual intercourse may indicate inflammation, so a gynecological examination is recommended.
This is unrelated to the cervical cancer vaccine, which is intended to prevent cervical cancer; your symptoms do not resemble those of cervical cancer.
Based on your description, you also have irregular menstrual issues.
Indeed, excessive stress can lead to menstrual irregularities, and you may consider consulting with Dr.
Lu Licheng at Taoyuan Hospital for menstrual regulation.

Reply Date: 2016/05/01

More Info

Menstrual irregularities and pain can be complex issues influenced by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle choices, and underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it appears that you have been experiencing significant menstrual irregularities and pain for an extended period, which could be indicative of several potential issues.

Firstly, the fact that you have been experiencing menstrual pain for two weeks without the onset of menstruation is concerning. This prolonged pain could be due to several factors, including hormonal imbalances, conditions such as endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Endometriosis, for instance, occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, leading to severe pain, especially during menstruation or sexual intercourse. The intense pain during sexual activity that you mentioned could be a symptom of this condition.

Your history of irregular menstrual cycles, including instances of heavy bleeding and the absence of menstruation for extended periods, suggests that you may have an underlying hormonal imbalance. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to irregular periods and may also contribute to difficulties with fertility. PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can affect ovulation and menstruation.

The mention of not receiving a cervical vaccine could also be relevant. Vaccines such as the HPV vaccine are essential for preventing certain types of cancers and infections that can affect reproductive health. While missing this vaccine may not directly cause menstrual irregularities, it is crucial for overall reproductive health.

Your lifestyle choices, including dietary habits and stress levels, can significantly impact your menstrual health. High-stress levels can lead to hormonal fluctuations that may disrupt your menstrual cycle. Additionally, your history of extreme dieting and changes in eating habits can also affect your hormonal balance and menstrual regularity. It is well-documented that significant weight loss or gain can lead to changes in menstrual cycles.

Given your symptoms and history, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies or blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. They may check for hormonal levels, signs of infection, or other conditions that could be contributing to your menstrual irregularities and pain.

In the meantime, consider adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrients, managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise can also help regulate menstrual cycles and improve overall well-being. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your health regimen, especially given your history of irregular periods and pain.

In summary, your symptoms warrant further investigation to determine the underlying causes. Conditions such as endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors could all play a role in your menstrual irregularities and pain. Seeking medical advice is crucial to address these issues effectively and to ensure your reproductive health is managed appropriately.

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