Post-Menstrual Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention?

Feeling unwell on the day after your menstrual period ends?

On the day her menstrual period ended, my girlfriend experienced severe abdominal pain and nausea but was unable to vomit.
Should she go to the hospital for an examination, or is this just a common symptom that can be managed with rest? During her period, she engaged in masturbation, and the blood appeared brown.
She rubbed against her underwear but did not ejaculate.
Is there a possibility that she could be pregnant?

Ai Mao Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the symptoms of dysmenorrhea can include not only cramping pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation but also nausea, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, fatigue, diarrhea, dizziness, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, back pain, and fainting.
Dysmenorrhea can generally be classified into primary or secondary dysmenorrhea.
Accurate diagnosis and treatment can help improve quality of life and work efficiency.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist for examination and treatment.
The likelihood of pregnancy in the mentioned situation is low, but not impossible.
It is still recommended to take appropriate contraceptive measures, and if necessary, consult a physician for evaluation.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/04/28

More Info

Post-menstrual discomfort can be a common experience for many women, but it can also indicate underlying health issues that may require medical attention. In your girlfriend's case, experiencing significant abdominal pain and nausea immediately after her menstrual period could be attributed to several factors, including hormonal fluctuations, uterine contractions, or even gastrointestinal issues. However, the severity of her symptoms raises some important considerations.

1. Understanding the Symptoms:
- Abdominal Pain: After menstruation, some women may experience cramps as the uterus continues to contract or as the body adjusts to hormonal changes. However, if the pain is severe and persistent, it may not be typical menstrual discomfort.
- Nausea: Feeling nauseous, especially if accompanied by pain, can indicate a more serious condition, such as an ovarian cyst, endometriosis, or even gastrointestinal issues like gastritis or an ulcer.

2. When to Seek Medical Attention:
- If the abdominal pain is severe and does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or changes in bowel habits, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
- Additionally, if the pain is localized to one side of the abdomen, it could suggest an issue with the ovaries, such as an ovarian cyst or ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate evaluation.

3. Pregnancy Concerns:
- Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, it is important to consider the timing of her menstrual cycle and any sexual activity. If there was any possibility of sperm entering the vagina, even without ejaculation, there is a chance of pregnancy. The presence of brown discharge can sometimes be normal, as it may indicate old blood, but it can also be a sign of implantation bleeding if pregnancy has occurred.

- If there is a concern about pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test or consulting a healthcare provider for a blood test can provide clarity.

4. Recommendations:
- If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is essential to visit a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. This may include a physical examination, ultrasound, or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the discomfort.

- In the meantime, resting, staying hydrated, and using heat pads may help alleviate some discomfort. However, these measures should not replace professional medical advice if symptoms are severe.

In summary, while some post-menstrual discomfort can be normal, the severity of your girlfriend's symptoms warrants a closer look. It is always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice when in doubt, especially when experiencing significant pain and nausea.

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