Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Delayed Menstruation: What to Know

Q: Left Lower Abdominal Pain and Delayed Menstruation: What to Know

Ms. <br>Huang： Hello, I still recommend visiting a doctor to confirm whether you are pregnant. <br>If you are not pregnant, medication can be prescribed to induce menstruation and alleviate symptoms. <br>The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your

Intermittent pain in the lower left abdomen and delayed menstruation?

My menstrual period was from March 24 to March 29, and I have a 28-day cycle.
I had intercourse on April 2 and April 3 with a condom, but I was concerned because I took emergency contraception on the morning of April 3.
I expected my period to arrive on April 22, but it has not come yet.
Starting from April 23, I have been experiencing intermittent sharp pain in my lower left abdomen; it doesn't occur every day, just a few days, but the pain is noticeable.
There is no discharge and no other symptoms, and my diet has not changed.
I took a pregnancy test on April 23 and April 29, both showing a single line.
I am currently 10 days late, and I also consumed saffron for a few days before April 22.

Miss Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/01

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ms.
Huang: Hello, I still recommend visiting a doctor to confirm whether you are pregnant.
If you are not pregnant, medication can be prescribed to induce menstruation and alleviate symptoms.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2022/05/01

More Info

Left lower abdominal pain combined with delayed menstruation can be concerning and may have various underlying causes. Given your situation, where you have a regular menstrual cycle of 28 days and have experienced a delay of 10 days, along with intermittent left lower abdominal pain, it is essential to consider several possibilities.

Firstly, it is important to rule out pregnancy, even though you have taken two pregnancy tests that returned negative results. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, but false negatives can occur, especially if the test is taken too early. If your period does not arrive soon, it may be advisable to take another test or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately.

If pregnancy is ruled out, the left lower abdominal pain could be attributed to several other factors:
1. Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Some women experience pain during ovulation, which typically occurs about 14 days before the next expected period. This pain can be sharp and localized to one side of the abdomen.

2. Ovarian Cysts: Functional ovarian cysts can develop during the menstrual cycle and may cause pain if they rupture or become large. These cysts are usually benign but can lead to discomfort.

3. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If there is an infection in the reproductive organs, it can cause pain and may also lead to delayed menstruation. PID is often associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

4. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, often causing pain, especially during menstruation or ovulation. It can also lead to irregularities in the menstrual cycle.

5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Sometimes, gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or diverticulitis can manifest as abdominal pain. Given that your pain is intermittent and not accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms, this may be less likely but still worth considering.

6. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Stress can significantly impact menstrual cycles, leading to delays. Changes in lifestyle, diet, or exercise can also affect your cycle.

Given that you have been experiencing this pain intermittently and have a delay in your menstruation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They may perform a pelvic examination, ultrasound, or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your symptoms. It is crucial to communicate all your symptoms clearly, including the nature of the pain, any other symptoms you may have experienced, and your menstrual history.

In summary, while delayed menstruation and left lower abdominal pain can be linked to various conditions, it is essential to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage any underlying issues effectively and alleviate your symptoms.

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