Abdominal Pain Before Menstruation: Causes and Concerns

Q: Abdominal Pain Before Menstruation: Causes and Concerns

Hello： Based on your description, you are likely in the luteal phase. <br>Severe lower abdominal pain after intercourse can be attributed to two main causes： one is a ruptured corpus luteum hematoma leading to intra-abdominal bleeding. <br>The other cause is an infection resultin

The uterus may experience pain even before menstruation begins?

On October 9th, I had intercourse with my boyfriend the day after my period ended.
Since last week on the 23rd, I've experienced abdominal pain whenever I walk a bit faster, but I'm certain it's not the kind of pain associated with needing to use the restroom.
Then, this Sunday, the 26th, I had a brief sexual encounter with my boyfriend, but there was no ejaculation either internally or externally.
Today, I walked quickly to class, and upon arriving, the abdominal pain became so severe that I could only roll around and was unable to do anything.
I would like to know if this could indicate a vaginal infection, or if the pain is simply due to my upcoming period.

Ya Ying, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/10/29

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Based on your description, you are likely in the luteal phase.
Severe lower abdominal pain after intercourse can be attributed to two main causes: one is a ruptured corpus luteum hematoma leading to intra-abdominal bleeding.
The other cause is an infection resulting in acute pelvic inflammatory disease.
Both conditions can present with symptoms of peritoneal irritation and rebound tenderness.
It is important to seek medical attention promptly.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2014/10/29

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain, especially in the context of the menstrual cycle, can be complex and multifaceted. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing significant abdominal pain that has intensified after engaging in physical activity and sexual intercourse. This pain could be attributed to several potential causes, and it’s essential to consider both physiological and psychological factors.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that abdominal pain around the time of menstruation is quite common and can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the most prevalent causes is dysmenorrhea, which refers to painful menstrual cramps. These cramps occur due to the release of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause the uterus to contract. Higher levels of prostaglandins can lead to more intense cramps, which may explain the pain you are experiencing.

In addition to menstrual cramps, other potential causes of abdominal pain in women include ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form on the ovaries and may cause pain, especially if they rupture. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, leading to severe pain during menstruation and sometimes during physical activity or intercourse. PID, often caused by sexually transmitted infections, can lead to inflammation and pain in the reproductive organs.

Given that you mentioned the pain worsens with physical activity and after sexual intercourse, it’s also worth considering the possibility of a musculoskeletal issue. Straining abdominal muscles during physical activity or sexual intercourse can lead to muscle soreness or spasms, which might mimic the sensation of abdominal pain.

Regarding your concern about a possible vaginal infection, while infections can cause abdominal pain, they typically present with additional symptoms such as unusual discharge, itching, or burning sensations. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

It’s also essential to consider the psychological aspect of pain. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate physical symptoms, including abdominal pain. If you are prone to anxiety, it may be worthwhile to explore relaxation techniques or speak with a mental health professional to address these concerns.

In summary, the abdominal pain you are experiencing could be due to a variety of factors, including menstrual cramps, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or even musculoskeletal strain. If the pain persists or worsens, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies or lab tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.

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