Menstrual Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Attention

Menstruation, genital area

Hello, I was diagnosed in July and after recovering, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to adjust my body.
However, my menstruation was affected due to the diagnosis, and I took some medication related to menstruation prescribed by the practitioner.
My period started on August 8th, but the next morning, I noticed something unusual in the upper right area of my genital region, specifically near the clitoral area.
After taking a shower, I began to feel pain in that area.
The discomfort occurs occasionally, especially when I sit in certain positions or when I wipe after using the restroom, but I change my sanitary pad every three hours.
Should I see a doctor immediately, or is it better to wait until my period is over?

Xue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/10

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your symptom description, it is more likely that you are experiencing contact dermatitis or folliculitis.
It is advisable to maintain a light diet, follow a regular daily routine, and keep the perineal area clean and dry.
Avoid wearing tight clothing.
You may soak in a bath to alleviate symptoms.
If symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2022/08/10

More Info

Menstrual discomfort can be a common experience for many women, but it’s important to understand when it may indicate a more serious issue that requires medical attention. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing localized pain in the genital area after your menstrual cycle began, which is accompanied by discomfort during certain activities. Here’s a breakdown of what you might consider regarding your symptoms and when to seek medical help.

Understanding Menstrual Discomfort
Menstrual discomfort can manifest in various forms, including cramps, bloating, and localized pain. These symptoms can be exacerbated by hormonal changes, stress, or even underlying medical conditions. In your case, the pain you are experiencing seems to be localized to the area around the clitoris and may be related to the medications you have taken or the recent changes in your menstrual cycle due to your recovery from COVID-19.

When to Seek Medical Attention
1. Severity of Pain: If the pain is mild and only occurs during specific activities (like sitting or wiping), it may not require immediate medical attention. However, if the pain becomes severe, persistent, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, or unusual discharge, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

2. Duration of Symptoms: If the discomfort continues beyond your menstrual cycle or worsens, it is advisable to seek medical advice. Persistent pain could indicate conditions such as infections, cysts, or other gynecological issues that may need treatment.

3. Changes in Menstrual Cycle: Since you mentioned that your menstrual cycle has been affected by your recent illness, it’s important to monitor any significant changes in your cycle, such as irregular bleeding, unusually heavy periods, or prolonged pain. These changes can sometimes indicate underlying health issues.

4. Impact on Daily Life: If the discomfort is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider. Pain that interferes with your ability to perform normal activities is a signal that something may need to be addressed.

5. Other Symptoms: If you experience any additional symptoms such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, these could be signs of an infection or other conditions that require medical evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, while mild discomfort during menstruation can be normal, it’s essential to listen to your body. If the pain you are experiencing is mild and does not interfere significantly with your daily life, you might choose to wait until after your menstrual cycle to see if the symptoms resolve. However, if the pain worsens, persists beyond your period, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to seek medical attention sooner rather than later.

Additionally, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about any changes in your menstrual health, especially following an illness like COVID-19, is crucial. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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