Missed Period and Abdominal Discomfort: Possible Causes Explained

Menstruation has not arrived, but there is a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, and there are traces of blood during urination?

Hello, my girlfriend's menstrual period is due, but she hasn't gotten her period yet.
However, she feels a heaviness in her abdomen, which is causing headaches.
She noticed some blood when using the restroom, but her pad remains clean.
She typically has a light flow and her periods are short.
Recently, we have been engaging in sexual intercourse frequently without condoms, but we practice withdrawal.
What could these symptoms indicate?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/01

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you are wondering about pregnancy, it is best to take preventive measures at all times.
Do not rely on the calendar method for safe periods.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/01/01

More Info

Missed periods and abdominal discomfort can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms. In your girlfriend's case, there are several potential causes for her missed period and the abdominal discomfort she is experiencing.

1. Pregnancy: Given that your girlfriend has been sexually active and has not been using protection, the most immediate concern would be the possibility of pregnancy. Even with withdrawal (pull-out method), there is still a risk of pregnancy due to pre-ejaculate fluid. A missed period is often one of the first signs of pregnancy, and the abdominal discomfort could be related to early pregnancy symptoms. It would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation.

2. Hormonal Imbalance: Irregularities in menstrual cycles can often be attributed to hormonal imbalances. Factors such as stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, or underlying health conditions (like polycystic ovary syndrome) can disrupt the normal hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. The abdominal discomfort could be a result of hormonal fluctuations affecting the menstrual cycle.

3. Menstrual Cycle Variability: Some women naturally have irregular cycles, which can be influenced by various factors including age, lifestyle, and health conditions. If your girlfriend typically has a light flow and shorter cycle, it may not be unusual for her to experience variations.

4. Ovulation Pain: Some women experience discomfort during ovulation, known as mittelschmerz, which can occur around the time they expect their period. This discomfort can sometimes be mistaken for menstrual cramps.

5. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If there is any possibility of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), PID could be a concern. This condition can cause abdominal pain and irregular menstrual cycles. Symptoms may include fever, unusual discharge, and pain during intercourse.

6. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or ovarian cysts can also lead to abdominal discomfort and affect menstrual cycles. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Given the complexity of menstrual health and the potential implications of missed periods, it is crucial for your girlfriend to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging or blood tests, to determine the underlying cause of her symptoms.
In the meantime, encourage her to monitor her symptoms, including any changes in her abdominal discomfort, and to take note of any other symptoms that may arise. If she experiences severe pain, heavy bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms, she should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while there are several potential explanations for your girlfriend's missed period and abdominal discomfort, the most pressing concern is the possibility of pregnancy. A home pregnancy test and a consultation with a healthcare provider would be prudent steps to take.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Irregular Menstrual Symptoms

Hello, my period was due on March 19, and before my period, I usually experience noticeable abdominal pain, lower back pain, and breast tenderness. However, this month in April, my period has not arrived, and I have not experienced any premenstrual symptoms; I have only been feel...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: When experiencing a delayed menstrual period, the first consideration should be whether there is a possibility of pregnancy. If pregnancy is ruled out, the delay is often due to an anovulatory cycle for that month, which can primarily be caused by excessive work or life st...

Missed Period: Could Pregnancy Be the Cause of Abdominal Pain?

Hello doctor, my period hasn't arrived this month. I had sexual intercourse in January, but my periods in January and February were both on the 14th as usual. Is there a possibility of pregnancy? Recently, I've been experiencing some abdominal pain.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you are wondering whether you are pregnant, it is best to take preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Missed Periods: Causes Beyond Pregnancy

Aside from the possibility of pregnancy, there are several other reasons why menstruation may be absent. These can include hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and certain medical co...

Dr. Jian Hongmou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
(1) Besides pregnancy, there are several other possible reasons for a missed period: 1. Systemic diseases: Conditions such as gastrointestinal dysfunction, tuberculosis, nephritis, severe anemia, and anorexia can lead to this. 2. Hypothalamic causes: Psychological factors such as...

Understanding Menstrual Irregularities: Pregnancy or Other Causes?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect menstrual cycle regularity, with some individuals experiencing irregular periods. You mentioned having unprotected intercourse on May 6, but without ejaculation. On May 12, you experienced abdominal pain and uterine discomfort two days ...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) typically results in menstrual cycles occurring every 3 to 4 months. Engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse without ejaculation inside the vagina on May 6, followed by abdominal pain and uterine discomfort two days after a missed period on May...