Abdominal Pain After Intimacy: When to Seek Help - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Urgent~~ Lower abdominal pain after having intercourse with my boyfriend?


Hello doctor, I just finished my period and had intercourse with my boyfriend on that day.
Since then, I've been experiencing persistent pain in my lower abdomen.
I've never felt this way before, and I'm not sure if it's my bladder or uterus that hurts.
It doesn't feel like menstrual cramps; it feels more like the pain of holding in urine for too long.
Is this normal? Additionally, after using the restroom, I noticed some slight bleeding (the urine itself is not bloody, but I see dark red streaks when I wipe with toilet paper).
Could this be a sign that my period hasn't fully ended, or is there something else going on? Should I see a gynecologist or a urologist for an examination? Based on this description, can you provide any insight into the possible causes, or would I need to undergo imaging like an X-ray?

Bai Bai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/13

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Seek emergency care for examination as soon as possible when experiencing pain.
There are many potential causes, and conditions such as torsion or internal bleeding are more serious.

Reply Date: 2015/12/13

More Info


Experiencing abdominal pain after intimacy can be concerning, and it's essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical help. Based on your description, the pain you are feeling in your lower abdomen, which resembles a sensation of needing to urinate, could be related to several factors, including muscular strain, irritation of the bladder or uterus, or even potential infections.

Firstly, it’s important to consider that during intimacy, especially if there is vigorous activity, there can be physical strain on the abdominal and pelvic muscles. This strain can lead to discomfort or pain, particularly if the muscles are not accustomed to such activity. Additionally, if there was any pressure applied to the bladder or pelvic area, it could result in a sensation similar to that of needing to urinate.

The presence of dark red blood on the tissue after wiping could indicate a few possibilities. It might be related to minor trauma or irritation of the vaginal walls or cervix, especially if there was any friction or if lubrication was insufficient during intercourse. This type of bleeding is often not serious but should be monitored. However, if the bleeding persists or increases, it is crucial to seek medical attention.

Another possibility is that the pain and bleeding could be related to your menstrual cycle. If you are close to your expected period, it could be that your body is experiencing premenstrual symptoms or that your period is beginning. However, if you are certain that your menstrual cycle has ended, then other causes should be considered.

Infections, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI) or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), could also cause similar symptoms. UTIs can cause abdominal pain, a burning sensation during urination, and sometimes bleeding. PID, which is an infection of the reproductive organs, can also lead to abdominal pain and unusual bleeding. If you have any additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or unusual discharge, these could indicate an infection that requires medical evaluation.

Given the symptoms you are experiencing, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. You can start by visiting a gynecologist, as they specialize in female reproductive health and can assess for any issues related to the uterus, ovaries, or cervix. If they determine that the issue may be related to the urinary tract, they can refer you to a urologist for further evaluation.

In terms of diagnostic tests, your doctor may recommend a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities, and they might also suggest a urine test to rule out a UTI. Depending on the findings, imaging tests such as an ultrasound may be necessary to get a clearer picture of your reproductive organs and any potential issues.

In summary, while some discomfort after intimacy can be normal, especially if it’s a new experience, the presence of pain and bleeding warrants a medical evaluation. It’s essential to listen to your body and seek help if symptoms persist or worsen. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and provide peace of mind.

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