Abdominal pain
Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I am 31 years old, unmarried, and I often experience delayed menstruation (sometimes it comes every three months, sometimes every two months, or just over a month apart).
Recently, I have been experiencing frequent abdominal pain, approximately around the area of my navel.
I would like to know: how serious is this issue? What tests should I undergo (as when I visited clinics and hospitals, the doctors only prescribed painkillers without conducting any examinations)?
Jiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/03
Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Generally, unmarried patients typically only require an abdominal ultrasound examination.
Thank you.
Reply Date: 2003/08/03
More Info
Understanding abdominal pain and irregular periods in women can be quite complex, as there are numerous factors that can contribute to these symptoms. Given your age and the irregularity of your menstrual cycle, along with the abdominal pain you are experiencing, it is essential to consider several potential underlying causes.
Firstly, irregular menstrual cycles can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, excessive exercise, or underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders. In your case, the fact that your periods can be delayed for months at a time suggests that there may be a hormonal imbalance at play. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone play crucial roles in regulating the menstrual cycle, and any disruption in their levels can lead to irregularities.
Abdominal pain, particularly localized around the area near the navel, can also have multiple causes. One common reason for abdominal pain in women is ovulation pain, also known as mittelschmerz, which occurs when an ovary releases an egg. This pain typically occurs mid-cycle but can vary in intensity and duration. However, given that you are experiencing this pain alongside irregular periods, it is essential to rule out other potential causes.
Conditions such as endometriosis, where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, can lead to significant abdominal pain and irregular menstrual cycles. Other possibilities include ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or even gastrointestinal issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation, which can also manifest as abdominal discomfort.
Given that you have been prescribed pain medication without further investigation, it is crucial to advocate for a more thorough evaluation of your symptoms. Here are some recommended steps you can take:
1. Seek a Specialist: Consider visiting a gynecologist who specializes in menstrual disorders or reproductive health. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms.
2. Diagnostic Imaging: Request an ultrasound of your pelvic region. This imaging can help identify any structural abnormalities, such as cysts or signs of endometriosis.
3. Hormonal Testing: Blood tests to check hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones, can provide insight into any hormonal imbalances that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.
4. Pelvic Exam: A thorough pelvic examination can help identify any abnormalities in the reproductive organs that may be contributing to your symptoms.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Consider evaluating your lifestyle for factors that may contribute to hormonal imbalances, such as diet, exercise, and stress levels. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can positively impact your menstrual health.
6. Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting your menstrual cycle, abdominal pain episodes, and any other symptoms can provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while abdominal pain and irregular periods can be concerning, they are often manageable with proper medical evaluation and treatment. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and advocate for the necessary tests to determine the underlying cause. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve your quality of life and menstrual health.
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