Abdominal Discomfort: Tumors or Gastrointestinal Issues?

Tumor or gastrointestinal issues?

Recently, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal discomfort, along with constipation issues.
My abdomen often feels bloated, and I easily feel full.
The lower abdomen feels hard to the touch, but it is soft when lying down.
My menstrual flow is heavy (with blood clots) and accompanied by menstrual cramps (similar to spasmodic pain).
About one to two weeks before my period, I notice light pink discharge.
I am very concerned about the possibility of ovarian cancer or similar conditions, so I visited a gynecology clinic for an abdominal ultrasound.
The doctor said that my uterus and ovaries appear normal.
Does this mean that there is no concern for ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, or other abnormalities? Could this be a gastrointestinal issue instead? Should I go to a larger hospital for further evaluation? Also, can a transvaginal ultrasound be performed on someone without sexual experience? Thank you for your assistance!

Mio, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Recently, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal discomfort, along with constipation issues.
My abdomen often feels bloated, and I easily feel full.
The lower abdomen feels hard to the touch, but it is soft when lying down.
During my menstrual period, I have heavy bleeding (with blood clots) and experience menstrual cramps (similar to spasmodic pain).
About one to two weeks before my period, I notice light blood-tinged discharge.
I am very concerned about the possibility of ovarian cancer or other abnormalities, so I visited a gynecology clinic for an abdominal ultrasound.
The doctor said that my uterus and ovaries appear normal.

1.
Does this mean that there is no concern for ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, or other abnormalities?
Answer: Generally, yes.

2.
Could this be a gastrointestinal issue?
Answer: It is likely not.

3.
Should I go to a larger hospital for further examination?
Answer: It would be advisable to seek further examination at a larger hospital.

4.
Can individuals without sexual experience undergo a transvaginal ultrasound?
Answer: Individuals without sexual experience should not undergo a transvaginal ultrasound.

Reply Date: 2017/07/20

More Info

Understanding abdominal discomfort can be quite complex, especially when considering the potential for tumors or gastrointestinal issues. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms, including abdominal discomfort, constipation, a sensation of fullness, and menstrual irregularities. You have also undergone an abdominal ultrasound, which showed normal results for your uterus and ovaries. This is a positive sign, as it reduces the likelihood of ovarian cancer or significant uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids.

However, it is important to note that while an ultrasound can provide valuable information, it may not detect all issues, especially those related to gastrointestinal problems. Given your symptoms, it is possible that your discomfort could be related to gastrointestinal issues rather than gynecological ones. Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or even dietary intolerances could contribute to the bloating and discomfort you are experiencing.
The sensation of a hard abdomen that feels softer when lying down could indicate gas buildup or bloating, which is common in gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, your menstrual symptoms, including heavy bleeding with clots and premenstrual spotting, could be related to hormonal fluctuations rather than a structural issue. Hormonal imbalances can lead to changes in menstrual patterns and may also affect gastrointestinal function.

If your abdominal discomfort persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consider further evaluation. A gastroenterologist can perform additional tests, such as a colonoscopy or endoscopy, to assess the gastrointestinal tract more thoroughly. These procedures can help identify conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), polyps, or other abnormalities that may not be visible on an ultrasound.

Regarding your concern about ovarian cancer, while the ultrasound results are reassuring, it is essential to remain vigilant, especially if you have a family history of gynecological cancers or if your symptoms change. If you are still worried about ovarian cancer or other gynecological issues, a transvaginal ultrasound can be performed even if you have not had sexual intercourse. This type of ultrasound provides a closer look at the ovaries and uterus and can help rule out any potential issues.

In summary, while your ultrasound results are encouraging, it is essential to consider the possibility of gastrointestinal issues as a source of your discomfort. Consulting with a gastroenterologist for further evaluation and possibly additional testing would be a reasonable next step. Additionally, if your menstrual symptoms continue to be problematic, discussing these with your gynecologist may provide further insights and management options. Always trust your instincts regarding your health, and do not hesitate to seek further evaluations if you feel it is necessary.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Gas or Gastrointestinal Issues?

Hello, Dr. Tsai. Recently, I have been feeling a sense of heaviness and bloating about three fingerbreadths below my navel, along with some lower back pain. It feels somewhat like the urge to have a bowel movement, but not as intense. I often feel the urge to defecate, but usuall...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If the issue has occurred in the past few days, it is likely an acute problem, which may include gastroenteritis, constipation, bloating, or indigestion. The likelihood of colorectal cancer is low. If the problem does not improve, it is recommended to consult a gastroenter...

Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Concerns

Hello, doctor: I often experience abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. Yesterday, I felt a slight discomfort in my abdomen and had a bit of an urge to defecate, but after using the restroom, I was unable to have a bowel movement. Later, before going to bed, I felt some discomfort i...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Ms. N: 1. Clinically, common diagnoses for right upper quadrant pain or discomfort include gastric ulcers or inflammation, duodenal ulcers or inflammation, gallbladder or biliary stones, gallbladder or biliary inflammation, liver abscesses or tumors, right lower lobe pneumo...

Understanding Your Digestive Discomfort: Is It IBS or Colon Cancer?

Hello, my condition has been feeling strange in my abdomen since last year. I have undergone a colonoscopy, which indicated some minor internal hemorrhoids, but I still feel a persistent bloating and discomfort in my stomach. I also experience frequent flatulence, and my bowel mo...

Dr. Yuan Hongdao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Your symptoms are more indicative of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). At 21 years old, if there is no family history of colorectal cancer, the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer is very low. Additionally, since you have undergone a colonoscopy and no polyps or tumor...

Understanding Digestive Discomfort: Causes of Abdominal Pain and Gas Issues

Hello, I would like to ask the following questions: 1. I have been experiencing pain about 3-4 fingerbreadths above my navel and in my left abdomen 2-3 times within the past week. What organs are located in this area? What could be the possible causes of the pain? What initial ...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: 1. The organs associated with your pain include the stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and transverse colon. Pain in this area may be related to gastrointestinal diseases (including gastritis, esophagitis, peptic ulcers, tumors, and polyps), liver, gallbladder, and panc...