Lower Abdominal Pain and Intermenstrual Bleeding

Lower abdominal pain and intermenstrual bleeding?

Hello Doctor, my girlfriend and I always use condoms during sexual intercourse and check for any tears afterward.
She has been experiencing lower abdominal pain every day for the past month, along with intermenstrual bleeding.
Her period lasted for 9 days with heavy flow and bright red blood.
Even after her period ended, she continues to have lower abdominal pain.
Today, she mentioned having yellowish-white discharge with a bit of blood.
The timing is close to her ovulation period.
Is there a connection? Also, what could be the cause of her lower abdominal pain for over a month? Thank you, Doctor.

Mr. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/25

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the failure rate of contraception using condoms alone is over 5%, which is less reliable compared to other methods.
Therefore, it is generally not recommended to rely solely on condoms for contraception.
If your menstrual period is more than a week late, it is advisable to check for pregnancy.
There are many factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause irregular bleeding, such as age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among others.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist to check for hormonal imbalances or other causes.
Additionally, there are various reasons for abdominal pain; if your symptoms continue, please seek evaluation and treatment from a gynecologist.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/01/25

More Info

Understanding lower abdominal pain and intermenstrual bleeding can be quite complex, especially when considering the various potential causes and the interplay between different symptoms. Based on the information provided, it seems your girlfriend is experiencing a combination of persistent lower abdominal pain, intermenstrual bleeding, and changes in vaginal discharge.
Firstly, it is important to note that lower abdominal pain can arise from various sources, including gynecological issues, gastrointestinal problems, or even urinary tract infections. Given that your girlfriend has been experiencing this pain for over a month, it is crucial to consider the possibility of underlying conditions that may require medical evaluation.

The intermenstrual bleeding, particularly if it is occurring outside of her normal menstrual cycle, can be indicative of several conditions. Some common causes of intermenstrual bleeding include hormonal imbalances, cervical or uterine polyps, fibroids, or even infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). The presence of yellowish-white discharge with a hint of blood could suggest an infection, particularly if it is accompanied by pain. Infections can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to both abdominal pain and abnormal bleeding.

The fact that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle has been affected, with a prolonged period lasting nine days and characterized by bright red blood, is also noteworthy. While some women may experience longer menstrual periods, this could also be a sign of a more significant issue, such as a hormonal imbalance or a structural abnormality in the reproductive system.

Given the symptoms described, it is advisable for your girlfriend to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare provider, preferably a gynecologist. A comprehensive examination, including a pelvic exam, ultrasound, and possibly laboratory tests, can help determine the underlying cause of her symptoms. It is essential to rule out conditions such as ectopic pregnancy, which can present with abdominal pain and bleeding, although you mentioned that you have been using condoms consistently.

In terms of the relationship between her symptoms and the timing of her menstrual cycle, it is possible that the abdominal pain and intermenstrual bleeding are linked to her ovulation phase. Some women experience mittelschmerz, or ovulation pain, which can occur around the time of ovulation and may be accompanied by light spotting. However, given the duration and severity of her symptoms, this is less likely to be the sole cause.

In conclusion, while there are several potential explanations for your girlfriend's symptoms, it is crucial to approach this situation with caution. Persistent abdominal pain and abnormal bleeding warrant a medical evaluation to ensure that any serious conditions are identified and treated promptly. Encourage her to make an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss her symptoms in detail and receive appropriate care. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and relief from discomfort.

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