Abdominal Discomfort and Menstrual Cycle Irregularities

Abdominal discomfort and pain?

Hello doctor, my period is expected to start on March 2nd.
I am currently using birth control pills to delay my period.
From March 1st to March 2nd, I have been experiencing some dull abdominal pain, similar to the feeling I get when my period arrives.
Is this normal? I also have slight breast tenderness.
Is this normal as well? I had sexual intercourse on January 29th, and I have been feeling a bit nauseous lately, with some sharp pain in my uterus.
On the morning of February 28th, I took a pregnancy test using my first morning urine, and it showed negative for pregnancy.
Is this result accurate?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My period is expected to start on March 2nd, and I am currently using birth control pills to delay it.
From March 1st to March 2nd, I have been experiencing some dull abdominal pain, similar to the feeling I get when my period starts.
Is this normal? Answer: Yes, this dull abdominal pain is normal.
I also have some slight breast tenderness; is this normal? Answer: Yes, this is normal.
I had sexual intercourse on January 29th, and recently I have been feeling some discomfort in my stomach, with occasional nausea, and I have sharp pain in my uterus.
On the morning of February 28th, I took a pregnancy test using my first morning urine, which showed negative for pregnancy.
Is this result accurate? Answer: It is likely accurate.

Reply Date: 2019/03/03

More Info

When it comes to understanding abdominal discomfort and menstrual cycle irregularities, it's essential to consider various factors, including hormonal changes, the effects of contraceptive methods, and potential underlying medical conditions. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing abdominal discomfort and breast tenderness around the time you expect your menstrual period, which is not uncommon, especially when using hormonal contraceptives.

Hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can significantly impact your menstrual cycle and the symptoms you experience. These medications work by altering your hormonal balance to prevent ovulation, regulate your menstrual cycle, and reduce menstrual symptoms. As a result, many women report experiencing symptoms similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, and mood changes, even when they are on the pill. The discomfort you are feeling in your abdomen could be related to the hormonal fluctuations caused by the contraceptive method you are using.

Regarding the abdominal pain you described, it is important to note that mild cramping or discomfort can be normal, especially as your body adjusts to hormonal changes. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as heavy bleeding, fever, or unusual discharge), it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a pelvic examination or imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, which can also cause similar symptoms.

As for the breast tenderness, this is another common side effect of hormonal contraceptives. The hormonal changes can lead to fluid retention and increased sensitivity in breast tissue, resulting in discomfort. If the tenderness is mild and not associated with any other alarming symptoms, it is generally not a cause for concern.

You mentioned that you had unprotected sexual intercourse on January 29 and performed a home pregnancy test on February 28, which showed a negative result. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when used correctly, especially when taken after a missed period. However, if you continue to experience symptoms of pregnancy (such as nausea or breast tenderness) despite a negative test, it may be worth repeating the test a few days later or consulting with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can provide more accurate results.

In summary, the abdominal discomfort and breast tenderness you are experiencing could be related to the hormonal changes from your contraceptive method. While mild symptoms can be normal, it is essential to monitor your condition and seek medical advice if you notice any significant changes or worsening of symptoms. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and that your contraceptive method is suitable for your needs.

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