Is It Normal to Experience Side Abdominal Pain Before Menstruation?

Q: Is It Normal to Experience Side Abdominal Pain Before Menstruation?

Hello： (1) Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) typically begins one week before menstruation and resolves once menstruation starts. <br>It recurs with each cycle. <br>Symptoms include both psychological and physiological aspects. <br>Psychological symptoms mainly consist of mood swings,

Menstruation

Is it normal to experience cramping on both sides of the lower abdomen about a week before menstruation?

Yi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/30

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: (1) Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) typically begins one week before menstruation and resolves once menstruation starts.
It recurs with each cycle.
Symptoms include both psychological and physiological aspects.
Psychological symptoms mainly consist of mood swings, irritability, depression, anxiety, and insomnia, while physiological symptoms primarily involve swelling of the hands and feet, constipation, abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, and headaches.
A minority may experience lower abdominal pain.
(2) If you experience bilateral lower abdominal cramping with each cycle, accompanied by some of the aforementioned psychological and physical symptoms, it may be indicative of premenstrual syndrome.
If the lower abdominal pain is only occasional, there are many potential causes, including functional fallopian tube spasms and abnormal bowel motility.
Other conditions that could cause bilateral lower abdominal pain include salpingitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, corpus luteum hematoma, and even uterine fibroids or ovarian tumors.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist for a thorough examination.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2012/11/30

More Info

Experiencing side abdominal pain before menstruation is a common phenomenon known as dysmenorrhea, which refers to the pain associated with menstruation. This pain can manifest in various forms, including cramping, sharp pains, or a dull ache, and it often occurs in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. The discomfort can vary in intensity and duration, typically beginning a few days before the onset of menstruation and lasting for a few days into the menstrual period.

The underlying causes of this premenstrual pain are primarily hormonal. As the menstrual cycle progresses, the body produces hormones such as prostaglandins, which help the uterus contract to shed its lining. Higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to more intense contractions, resulting in increased pain. Additionally, conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease can exacerbate menstrual pain, leading to more severe symptoms.

In your case, experiencing side abdominal pain about a week before your period can be considered normal, especially if it is consistent with your previous menstrual cycles. However, it is essential to monitor the pain's characteristics. If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as heavy bleeding, irregular cycles, or significant changes in your menstrual pattern, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further evaluation, including a pelvic exam or imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions.

It's also worth noting that anxiety and stress can amplify the perception of pain. If you find that your pain is associated with significant emotional distress or anxiety, addressing these factors through relaxation techniques, counseling, or lifestyle changes may help alleviate some of the discomfort.

In summary, while experiencing side abdominal pain before menstruation can be normal, it is crucial to pay attention to the pain's intensity and any accompanying symptoms. If you have concerns or if the pain significantly impacts your daily life, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step. Regular gynecological check-ups can also help ensure that any potential issues are identified and managed appropriately.

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