Persistent Lower Abdominal Pain After Menstruation: Possible Causes?

Persistent dull pain in the lower abdomen after menstruation?

Hello Dr.
Lu: My menstrual cycle is consistently 29 to 30 days.
My period started on December 2nd, and I had intercourse with ejaculation on December 9th.
I also had intercourse with withdrawal on December 14th, 17th, and 21st.
Since my period ended, I have been experiencing persistent lower abdominal discomfort for the past 12 days, along with noticeable dizziness and abdominal bloating.
Could these symptoms possibly indicate pregnancy or an ovarian cyst? (I am married and have given birth before.)

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/22

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

There are many possible causes, including uterine inflammation, ovarian tumors, internal bleeding, pregnancy, constipation, and bladder inflammation.
Please seek medical evaluation.

Reply Date: 2015/12/22

More Info

Persistent lower abdominal pain after menstruation can be concerning and may arise from several potential causes. Given your history of regular menstrual cycles and recent sexual activity, it is essential to consider a few possibilities.

1. Pregnancy: One of the first considerations in a case of persistent lower abdominal pain after menstruation, especially following unprotected intercourse, is the possibility of pregnancy. Symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, dizziness, and bloating can be associated with early pregnancy. If you suspect this could be the case, taking a home pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider for a blood test would be prudent.

2. Ovarian Cysts: Another common cause of lower abdominal pain in women, particularly after menstruation, is the presence of ovarian cysts. These fluid-filled sacs can develop on the ovaries and may cause discomfort, especially if they rupture or become large. Symptoms can include dull or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, bloating, and changes in menstrual patterns. An ultrasound can help diagnose the presence of cysts.

3. Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often causing significant pain, especially during menstruation or after. Symptoms can include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, and pain during intercourse. If you have a history of painful periods or if the pain is severe, discussing this possibility with your healthcare provider is essential.

4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): If there has been any history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), PID could be a concern. This infection of the reproductive organs can cause lower abdominal pain, fever, and unusual discharge. If you experience any additional symptoms such as fever or abnormal discharge, seeking medical attention is crucial.

5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Sometimes, gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, or even food intolerances can manifest as lower abdominal pain. If you have noticed changes in your bowel habits or dietary patterns, this could be a contributing factor.

6. Musculoskeletal Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen can also arise from musculoskeletal issues, particularly if there has been any recent physical activity or strain. This type of pain is often localized and can be exacerbated by movement or certain positions.

Given your symptoms of persistent pain, dizziness, and abdominal bloating, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a pelvic exam, imaging studies such as an ultrasound, or blood tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to address any potential issues effectively.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your persistent lower abdominal pain after menstruation, including pregnancy, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, PID, gastrointestinal issues, and musculoskeletal pain, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to identify the exact cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

Similar Q&A

Post-Menstrual Lower Abdominal Pain: Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I often experience lower abdominal pain about a week after my menstrual period ends. What could be causing this, and how can I improve the situation? Thank you.

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
A clinic visit is necessary for a definitive examination.

Understanding Lower Abdominal Pain After Menstruation: Causes and Concerns

Doctor, my menstrual cycle lasts eight days. I just finished my period recently, but last night while I was sleeping, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my lower abdomen, similar to menstrual cramps. What could be the issue?

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Fangfang: Sudden pain in the lower abdomen is likely to be ovulatory pain or intestinal cramping. Other possible causes could include ovarian cyst torsion. If the pain subsides on its own after a while, it is generally not a concern. However, if the pain persists afte...

Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Pain Before Menstruation: Causes and Concerns

In the days leading up to menstruation, experiencing intermittent pain in the lower left abdomen, which resolves after the menstrual period, along with an increase in abnormal vaginal discharge, could indicate several possibilities. This may be related to premenstrual syndrome (P...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
A preliminary ultrasound and pelvic examination are required for diagnosis; it is recommended to visit an outpatient clinic for evaluation.

Understanding Abdominal Pain and Bowel Changes Before and During Menstruation

Hello, I experience a strong urge to have a bowel movement before, during, and after my menstrual period, accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen, just below the navel. The pain is so intense that it makes it difficult to exert myself during bowel movements, which are also soft ...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ms. Ke: Hello, regarding the first issue you described, an ultrasound examination will be conducted. As for the second issue, Western medicine theories suggest there is no correlation. Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.