Abdominal Pain: Pregnancy Signs or Other Health Issues?

Occasional abdominal cramping, chances of pregnancy, and menstrual issues?

From June 17 to June 23, I had my menstrual period.
During the period, I had sexual intercourse on June 21.
Since the day before yesterday, I have been experiencing occasional cramping in my lower abdomen, with more noticeable pain in the lower right abdomen, and occasional pain near the connection to my thigh.
Additionally, I have been experiencing slight frequency in urination before bed, although I haven't consumed much water.
Last night, I started to feel a throbbing pain on both sides of my head, which has continued into today, accompanied by a slight sensation of heat in my head.
I just measured my temperature at about 37.1 degrees Celsius.

Could this be an early pregnancy symptom, or is it indicative of another health issue? Although my period just ended a little over a week ago, the abdominal and head pain, along with the elevated temperature, is concerning me.
Furthermore, my menstrual periods have been longer than usual over the past two months; they typically last less than five days, but recently they have extended to around seven days, with a few days of brown discharge towards the end.
After this last period, I started experiencing lower abdominal pain again two days later.

What could these gynecological symptoms indicate? Thank you, doctor, for your detailed attention.

Yun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it seems that you are not pregnant.
Please observe for a few more days, and if you still experience discomfort, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/06/27

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain during pregnancy can be complex, as it may arise from various causes, including normal physiological changes, potential complications, or unrelated health issues. In your case, the symptoms you describe—occasional abdominal pain, particularly in the right lower abdomen, along with some urinary frequency and mild fever—could indicate several possibilities.

Firstly, it is important to note that abdominal pain in early pregnancy can sometimes be attributed to normal changes in the body as it adjusts to the pregnancy. These changes include the stretching of ligaments as the uterus expands, which can cause discomfort. However, given your specific symptoms, it is crucial to consider other potential causes.

The right lower abdominal pain you are experiencing could be related to a condition known as "round ligament pain," which is common in pregnancy. This type of pain typically occurs as the ligaments supporting the uterus stretch and can be exacerbated by movement or changes in position. However, if the pain is severe or persistent, it may warrant further investigation.

Another possibility is the presence of an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. This condition can cause localized pain and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as abnormal bleeding or signs of internal bleeding. Given that you mentioned having sexual intercourse shortly after your menstrual period, it is essential to rule out this possibility, especially if you experience sharp or worsening pain.

Additionally, the mild fever and changes in your menstrual cycle—such as prolonged bleeding and the presence of brown discharge—could indicate an infection or other gynecological issues, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or endometriosis. These conditions can cause abdominal pain and may require medical evaluation and treatment.

Considering your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They may recommend a pelvic examination, blood tests, and possibly an ultrasound to assess the situation more thoroughly. A urine test may also be conducted to check for urinary tract infections, which can cause abdominal pain and increased frequency of urination.

In summary, while some abdominal pain can be a normal part of pregnancy, your specific symptoms—especially the localized pain, fever, and changes in menstrual patterns—suggest that a more thorough evaluation is necessary. It is essential to seek medical attention to ensure both your health and the potential health of a pregnancy if it is confirmed. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and provide peace of mind.

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