Abnormal Menstrual Patterns: Causes and Concerns

During the premenstrual phase, there is a low volume of menstrual flow, while in the later phase, there are excessive blood clots and membranes?

I usually have a regular menstrual cycle, but this month my period was delayed by 7 to 8 days.
On the first day, the flow was very light (just a slight brownish stain on my underwear).
From days 2 to 4, the flow remained minimal and the blood was brown.
On the fifth day, I started experiencing abdominal bloating and pain, along with the expulsion of a significant amount of blood clots and tissue— the blood was bright red.
Now, on the eighth day of my period, the flow is still heavy! Additionally, during intercourse, I sometimes feel abdominal pain and have the urge to have a bowel movement.
Could these symptoms be indicative of endometriosis, or could they be related to another issue?

Lu Lu Mi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/04

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Based on your symptoms, we should consider the possibility of irregular menstruation or miscarriage.
The abdominal pain you experience, along with the urge to have a bowel movement, may indicate symptoms of endometriosis.
Additionally, we should also consider the possibility of uterine inflammation or issues related to the posterior uterus.
Sincerely, Lu Li-Zheng.

Reply Date: 2005/05/04

More Info

Understanding abnormal menstrual patterns can be complex, as they may arise from a variety of causes, including hormonal imbalances, structural issues, or underlying medical conditions. Your description of a delayed period followed by a change in flow and color, along with abdominal pain and the passage of clots, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, a delay in menstruation can be attributed to several factors, including stress, significant weight changes, hormonal fluctuations, or even pregnancy. Given that your period was late by 7-8 days, it might be worth considering a pregnancy test if there is a possibility of conception. However, since you mentioned that the flow was initially light and then became heavy with bright red blood and clots, this could indicate a different issue.

The presence of brown blood typically suggests older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, while bright red blood usually indicates fresh bleeding. The fact that you experienced a significant increase in flow and the passage of clots, especially after several days of lighter bleeding, could suggest a few possibilities:
1. Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid dysfunction can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and changes in flow. Hormonal fluctuations can also cause the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) to shed irregularly, leading to heavy bleeding.

2. Uterine Fibroids or Polyps: These benign growths can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and may lead to clotting. They can also cause discomfort or pain during menstruation or sexual intercourse.

3. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to pain, especially during menstruation. Symptoms can include heavy bleeding, pain during intercourse, and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as the urge to have a bowel movement.

4. Miscarriage: If there was a possibility of pregnancy, the symptoms you describe could also indicate a miscarriage, especially if accompanied by significant pain and clotting.

5. Infection or Inflammation: Conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can cause abnormal bleeding and pain during intercourse.
Given your symptoms, particularly the abdominal pain during intercourse and the significant changes in your menstrual flow, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They may recommend a pelvic examination, ultrasound, or other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
In summary, while your symptoms could potentially align with endometriosis, they could also indicate other conditions such as fibroids, hormonal imbalances, or even an early pregnancy complication. It is essential to seek medical advice for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and address any underlying issues effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Causes and Concerns

I'm sorry, but I can't provide medical advice. However, it sounds like you are experiencing irregularities in your menstrual cycle. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and any concerns you may have regarding your menstr...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse. 2. Abnormal bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles can have various underlying causes; it is recommended to seek evaluation from a gynecolog...

Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Their Connection to Anemia

Menstrual irregularities can occur for various reasons, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, or underlying medical conditions. It's not uncommon for periods to be delayed for 1 to 2 months and then return to a regular cycle. Anemia can also be related to...

Dr. Chen Fuhao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
"Hello! The so-called normal menstruation occurs under conditions of normal female endocrine function, characterized by periodic and regular ovulation, followed by the shedding of the endometrium and bleeding. The typical cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. Dysfunctional uterin...

Understanding Irregular Menstruation: Causes and Concerns for Women

Hello doctor, my menstrual period comes approximately every two months, and I experience menstrual cramps. Both the duration and the amount of menstrual flow are normal. Is this considered regular? Could it be related to estrogen deficiency?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptives, diet, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among oth...

Understanding Abnormal Menstrual Patterns and Their Causes: A Guide for Women

Hello, doctor. 1. My menstrual cycle is generally normal, lasting about 5-7 days. However, sometimes it occurs that the first two days have very little flow, then on the third day, there are blood clots and a large amount of menstrual blood, followed by very little or no flow o...

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The issues you want to understand are multifaceted, and the amount of menstrual flow can be related to factors such as the use of contraceptives, age, and whether medications are being taken. The same symptoms may have different underlying causes. It is advisable to discus...