Menstrual Pain: Is It Constipation or Something More?

Menstrual pain causes issues?

Hello Dr.
Chang: Today is the second day of my menstrual period.
When I woke up this morning, I felt a tearing sensation near my uterus or vagina, which made me feel like I needed to have a bowel movement, so I went to the toilet.
However, while trying to have a bowel movement, I was unable to do so, and the tearing pain continued to increase.
I suspect it might be constipation.
This has happened during my last two or three menstrual periods, and I had normal bowel movements in the days leading up to this, so I would like to ask if this situation indicates constipation?
Additionally, today is different from previous days because I am experiencing severe menstrual cramps (very painful and my lower limbs feel weak), and while straining on the toilet, I also felt a squeezing sensation in my stomach, which caused me to start gagging.
After vomiting, I began to break out in a cold sweat.
When I stood up after using the toilet, I felt extremely dizzy and had a temporary loss of vision for about 30 seconds before slowly recovering.
During that time, I heard a buzzing sound behind my ears.
I would like to know if these symptoms are normal.
Thank you! *Note: I was recently diagnosed with COVID-19 and had a fever until yesterday, but I am no longer feverish this morning, so I suspect it might be related to my menstrual cycle.

Jiang Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/14

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, a definitive diagnosis cannot be confirmed.
It is recommended that after the quarantine and self-health management are lifted, you schedule an appointment for examination at the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/06/14

More Info

Menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, can often be a complex issue that intertwines with various bodily functions, including gastrointestinal health. Your description of experiencing a tearing sensation near the uterus or vagina, coupled with the urge to defecate, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that menstrual cramps can sometimes mimic gastrointestinal discomfort. The uterus contracts during menstruation, which can lead to referred pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area. This contraction can also affect the intestines, leading to sensations that may feel like constipation or the need to have a bowel movement. However, if you have been experiencing this tearing sensation consistently during your menstrual cycle, it may not solely be attributed to constipation.

The symptoms you described, including severe pain, nausea, and dizziness, particularly after straining to defecate, suggest that there could be more at play than just menstrual cramps or constipation. The intense pain and subsequent nausea leading to dry heaving could indicate that your body is reacting to the pain in a way that triggers a vasovagal response, which can cause faintness and sweating. This response is not uncommon during severe pain episodes, especially during menstruation.

Given that you have recently been diagnosed with COVID-19 and experienced fever, it is crucial to consider how your overall health may be impacting your menstrual symptoms. Illness can exacerbate pre-existing conditions, including menstrual pain, and can also affect your gastrointestinal system. Stress and anxiety related to illness can further complicate these symptoms.

To address your concerns, here are some recommendations:
1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycle, including the severity of pain, any gastrointestinal symptoms, and how you feel overall. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

2. Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are well-hydrated and consider your diet leading up to your menstrual period. Foods high in fiber can help prevent constipation, while staying hydrated can ease gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help alleviate menstrual cramps. However, consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially considering your recent illness.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the severity of your symptoms, including the faintness and nausea, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They can evaluate whether your symptoms are due to menstrual pain, gastrointestinal issues, or another underlying condition.

5. Consider Other Factors: If these symptoms persist, it may be worth exploring other potential causes, such as endometriosis or fibroids, which can cause significant menstrual pain and discomfort.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to menstrual pain and possibly constipation, the severity and nature of your experience warrant further evaluation by a healthcare professional. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific situation. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your health and seek help when experiencing such distressing symptoms.

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