Abdominal Discomfort: Menstrual Pain and Concerns

Abdominal issues?

Hello doctor, I used to have no pain during my menstrual periods, but recently I've experienced some abdominal pain a few times before my period.
However, last time I had no pain at all, and instead, towards the end of my period, the blood turned a bit brown.
The pain is located in the area just below the connection of the two pelvic bones, and sometimes I also feel a slight soreness in the lower abdomen near the pelvis.
The lower abdominal pain mostly starts after urination and gradually improves.
When I get up from a chair during the pain, I feel like something is going to fall out from my backside.
I am a student preparing for exams and am under a lot of stress, and I also have gastrointestinal issues.
I would like to know if these symptoms are normal, or if they could be due to excessive stress, or if there is a possibility of cervical cancer or ovarian cancer.
Sometimes when my period is not present, there is a foul, sour smell in my underwear.
Is this due to heat, or could it be for other reasons?

zero zero, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I previously did not experience pain during my menstrual periods, but in the last few cycles, I have had abdominal pain before my period.
However, last time I had no pain at all, and instead, towards the end of my period, the blood turned a bit brown.
The pain is located in the area just below the line connecting my pelvic bones, and sometimes I also feel a slight soreness in the lower abdomen near the pelvis.
The lower abdominal pain mostly starts after urination and gradually improves.
When I get up from a chair during the pain, I feel like something is going to fall out from my backside.
I am a student preparing for exams and am under a lot of stress, and I also have digestive issues.
I would like to know if these symptoms are normal, if they are due to stress, or if there is a possibility of cervical cancer or ovarian cancer.
Sometimes, when my period is not present, I notice a foul, sour smell in my underwear.
Is this due to heat, or could it be for other reasons?
Answer: It could be a urinary tract infection.
Try to drink more water and see if it improves.
It is not cervical cancer or ovarian cancer.

Reply Date: 2018/08/20

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms related to your menstrual cycle, abdominal discomfort, and possibly anxiety. Let's break down your concerns and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, can vary significantly from one cycle to another. Some women experience intense pain during their periods, while others may have little to no discomfort. The fact that you previously had painless periods and are now experiencing pain could be due to several factors, including hormonal changes, stress, or even underlying conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids.

The abdominal pain you describe, particularly the discomfort after urination and the sensation of something "dropping" from your body, could be related to several issues. One possibility is that you may be experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, which can cause pain during certain activities, including urination. Additionally, the pain in the lower abdomen could be linked to your menstrual cycle, especially if it coincides with your period.

The presence of brownish blood towards the end of your menstrual cycle is generally not unusual. It can indicate older blood that is taking longer to exit the body. However, if this is accompanied by significant pain or changes in your menstrual pattern, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

Regarding your concerns about serious conditions like cervical or ovarian cancer, it's understandable to feel anxious, especially under stress from exams. While these conditions can present with abdominal pain or changes in menstrual cycles, they are relatively rare, particularly in younger women. However, if you have persistent symptoms or if your pain worsens, it is crucial to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform necessary examinations, such as a pelvic exam, ultrasound, or Pap smear, to rule out any serious issues.

Your mention of foul-smelling discharge could be indicative of a vaginal infection, which can be caused by various factors, including bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. Stress and hormonal changes can also affect your vaginal flora, leading to unusual discharge. Maintaining good hygiene and wearing breathable fabrics can help, but if the odor persists, a visit to a healthcare provider is warranted.

Lastly, your anxiety and stress levels can significantly impact your physical health. Stress can exacerbate gastrointestinal issues, leading to discomfort and changes in bowel habits. Techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or talking to a counselor can help manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be related to normal menstrual changes or stress, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if your symptoms persist or worsen. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as addressing physical symptoms, especially during stressful times like exam preparation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Abdominal Pain: A Comprehensive Guide for Women

Doctor, my friend is 37 years old and has been experiencing abdominal pain after her menstrual period for the past few months. Sometimes, the pain also occurs before her period. Her menstrual flow is normal, but at times the pain is severe enough to affect her rectal area, althou...

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● It is important to first determine whether abdominal pain is related to menstruation. Discomfort experienced before menstruation is referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), with common symptoms including breast tenderness, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, mood swings, sleep dis...

Understanding Menstrual Discomfort: Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Hello, doctor. During my recent menstrual periods, I have experienced vomiting, diarrhea, migraines, abdominal pain (around the gastrointestinal area), leg swelling, and drowsiness. However, there are no abnormalities in my lower abdomen or with the menstrual flow itself. I feel ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is recommended to see an obstetrician-gynecologist to first rule out any tumors; otherwise, the treatment will only address the symptoms. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Abdominal Discomfort: Gastrointestinal vs. Gynecological Issues

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort in my lower abdomen, just below the navel, which feels heavy and uncomfortable, somewhat similar to menstrual cramps. Recently, I have been tracking my menstrual cycle in relation to this heaviness. My menstrual cycle is 25-26 day...

Dr. Zhang Chunfang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Please continue to seek care from obstetrics and gynecology, as well as gastroenterology, and do not ignore pain signals. Take care of your body. Chiayi Hospital is concerned about your health.

Understanding Abdominal Pain During Menstruation: When to Seek Help

Hello, I would like to ask about something. For the past four months, on the 4th or 5th day of my menstrual period, I have been experiencing pain in my abdomen (around the area above and below the navel). It feels like something inside my abdomen is being pulled together, but it ...

Dr. Wei Fumao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It seems that this situation is related to the intestines; please consult a gastroenterologist.