Is It PMS? Abdominal Pain and Delayed Periods - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is it premenstrual abdominal pain?


I'm sorry...
I would like to ask, my last visit was on April 3rd, and I expected my menstrual period to start on May 3rd.
My cycle is usually 30 to 31 days, but now it's May 5th and it hasn't started yet.
Yesterday, I experienced severe abdominal cramps, and I have been passing gas more frequently.
My discharge is light yellow but has a sour smell.
I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on April 28th, but we used a condom the entire time and we checked to ensure it didn't break.
Is there a possibility that I could be pregnant? Also, what could be causing my symptoms?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/05

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the discharge is light yellow and has a sour smell, which may indicate inflammation.
The chances of pregnancy are low.
If you continue to experience discomfort or if your period does not arrive after one more week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/05/05

More Info


It sounds like you're experiencing a combination of symptoms that can be quite concerning, especially when it comes to menstrual irregularities and abdominal pain. Let's break down your situation to better understand what might be happening.

Firstly, your menstrual cycle is typically around 30-31 days, and since your last period started on April 3, you would expect your next period to arrive around May 3. However, since it is now May 5 and you have not yet menstruated, this delay could be attributed to several factors. Stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and even certain medical conditions can all affect your menstrual cycle. Given that you mentioned experiencing abdominal pain and changes in your discharge, it’s important to consider a few possibilities.

One common cause of abdominal pain and delayed periods is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). PMS can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal cramps, mood swings, and changes in bowel habits. However, PMS typically occurs in the luteal phase of your cycle, which is the time after ovulation and before your period starts. If your symptoms are occurring before your expected period, it could indeed be related to PMS.

Another possibility is that you might be experiencing ovulation pain (also known as mittelschmerz), which can occur around the middle of your cycle. This pain can sometimes be mistaken for menstrual cramps. However, since you are now past your expected period, this is less likely to be the cause of your current symptoms.

You also mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on April 28, but you used a condom and confirmed that it did not break. While condoms are generally effective at preventing pregnancy, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period.

The abdominal pain you are experiencing, along with the changes in your discharge (noting that it is a light yellow and has an acidic smell), could also indicate an infection. Conditions such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection can cause changes in discharge and abdominal discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, unusual discharge, or severe pain, it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to PMS, they could also indicate other issues such as an infection or even a potential pregnancy. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If your period does not start soon or if your symptoms worsen, I recommend consulting with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may perform a pelvic exam, run some tests, and provide you with the appropriate treatment based on their findings. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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