the Connection Between Bladder Infections and Menstrual Pain

Q: the Connection Between Bladder Infections and Menstrual Pain

Hello, Thank you for your message. Regarding your questions： - The normal duration of menstruation is typically 3 to 5 days, but it can range from as short as 1 to 2 days and as long as 7 to 8 days. - The criteria for determining whether menstruation is normal

Cystitis and dysmenorrhea?

I'm sorry, I only have that kind of MSN email.
Hello, doctor.
Can cystitis cause pain in the upper left abdomen? During my menstrual period, I usually experience severe pain in the bladder area and the upper left abdomen, which lasts for at least three days.
I consulted a gynecologist who said that menstrual pain shouldn't extend to that area.
They prescribed medication for me to take after meals during my period, but the pain was still unbearable.
After that, I saw many doctors and underwent various tests, including a colonoscopy, but nothing significant was found.
Because I am overweight, I find it difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the pain.
It has become increasingly severe, with symptoms that typically occur only during menstruation now happening even outside of my menstrual period.
The pain has become so severe that I noticed blood in my stool, which I initially thought was due to my period or constipation.
I mentioned this to my family doctor, who suggested a urine test and found signs of inflammation.
They prescribed antibiotics, which I took for about a week.
The family doctor advised me to see a gynecologist afterward.
After finishing the antibiotics, my period started, and the pain significantly decreased, but I still experience intermittent pain.
I'm not sure if this pain is related to my menstrual cycle or caused by cystitis.
My menstrual blood has an unusually strong odor that makes me feel nauseous, and it is very thick with quite a few blood clots.
On the first day of my period, the blood flow is very light, but it increases on the second day, and I still have some bleeding for the next four to five days.
Is this normal? Thank you.

Dudu Mei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/11/15

Dr. Zhang Yongxuan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello,
Thank you for your message.
Regarding your questions:
- The normal duration of menstruation is typically 3 to 5 days, but it can range from as short as 1 to 2 days and as long as 7 to 8 days.

- The criteria for determining whether menstruation is normal can be quite ambiguous.
While severe pain is considered abnormal, a moderate sense of heaviness in the pelvic area is generally within the normal range.

- Mild nervousness is often present; I wonder if you experience this? Occasional bladder irritability and a tendency towards constipation may also occur.
In summary, menstruation should not cause significant discomfort or interfere with normal activities.

- It would be best to visit a clinic for a detailed examination and treatment regarding your concerns.

Wishing you a speedy recovery,
Dr.
Chang Yong-Hsien

Reply Date: 2009/11/15

More Info

Bladder infections, also known as urinary tract infections (UTIs), can indeed cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain. The connection between bladder infections and menstrual pain can be complex, as both conditions can affect the pelvic region and may share overlapping symptoms.
When a bladder infection occurs, it can lead to inflammation and irritation of the bladder lining, which may cause pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and lower abdominal discomfort. This discomfort can sometimes be felt in the upper abdomen, especially if the infection is severe or if there is associated inflammation in nearby structures, such as the uterus or ovaries.
During menstruation, hormonal changes can lead to increased sensitivity and cramping in the pelvic region. For some individuals, the pain associated with menstrual cramps can be exacerbated by any underlying conditions, such as a bladder infection. Therefore, it is possible that the left upper abdominal pain you experience during your menstrual cycle could be related to both the bladder infection and the menstrual cramps.

In your case, you mentioned that you have experienced significant pain during your menstrual period, which has now extended beyond just the menstrual cycle. This could indicate that there is an underlying issue that needs further investigation. The presence of blood in your stool and the description of your menstrual blood as having a strong odor and being very thick with clots are concerning symptoms that should not be overlooked.
It is essential to communicate these symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider. You may want to ask for additional tests, such as a pelvic ultrasound or further urine tests, to rule out any other conditions that could be causing your symptoms, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or other gastrointestinal issues.
In summary, while bladder infections can cause abdominal pain, the relationship between your menstrual pain and bladder infection symptoms may be multifaceted. It is crucial to continue working with your healthcare provider to explore these symptoms further. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion or consulting a specialist, such as a urologist or gynecologist, may be beneficial.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and practicing good hygiene can help prevent future infections. If you experience severe pain or any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being are paramount, and it is essential to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system.

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