Severe Pelvic Discomfort After Intimacy: Seeking Insights
I am a 34-year-old female, standing at 5’8” and weighing 140 pounds. Earlier today, after consuming alcohol, I engaged in sexual activity that did not reach completion. Shortly after, I began to experience intense pain localized in my lower left abdomen and rectum. It feels as if I am being stabbed in that area. The discomfort escalates to an unbearable 10 out of 10, a rare rating for me as I seldom experience pain to this degree. In an attempt to alleviate the suffering, I took a hydrocodone left over from a dental procedure which helped me drift off to sleep for a while. However, upon waking to use the restroom, the pain returned with full force as soon as I attempted to stand up. I am so distressed that I find myself in tears; the pain can become blinding, but it diminishes to about a 4 out of 10 when I can lie down. I’m reaching out to see if anyone else has encountered a similar situation or might have an idea of what could be causing this. Though I’m apprehensive about going to the emergency department here in the US, I’m starting to think I may need to. If this could potentially be due to a ruptured cyst, would such a condition necessitate a hospital visit, or could I manage it with over-the-counter medication until the symptoms settle? Thank you for any guidance you might have.
Answers (1)
6/15/2025, 12:10:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about the intense pain you're experiencing. Severe pelvic discomfort, especially at the level you're describing, is often a sign that something may need to be addressed promptly. Here’s a breakdown to help guide you:
Main Points:
- Your symptoms could indicate a serious issue, such as an ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease, or other abdominal conditions that may require medical attention.
- Pain at a level of 10/10 is significant and concerning; it’s essential to address this effectively.
Explanation:
Pelvic pain after intimate activity can arise from various sources. In women, common causes include ovarian cysts, which can rupture and cause sharp, severe pain, or other conditions like endometriosis or infections. Since you mentioned the pain is severe and specific to one area, this warrants careful consideration.
Taking hydrocodone helped alleviate the pain temporarily, but it’s crucial to address the underlying issue rather than only mask the symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any additional symptoms such as fever, vomiting, changes in urination, or worsening pain. These could help indicate the seriousness of your condition.
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Immediate Action: Since the pain is at a level that brings you to tears and does not subside significantly with rest or medication, I recommend seeking medical attention without delay. It may be best to visit an urgent care clinic or emergency department where they can evaluate your condition properly.
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Avoid Further Strain: Until you can get evaluated, try to rest in positions that lessen the pain, like lying down and avoiding activities that aggravate it.
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Document Symptoms: If possible, keep a note of when your pain fluctuates, any other symptoms, and how they correspond to activities. This information can be helpful to healthcare providers.
Please prioritize getting the care you need; don’t hesitate to seek emergency help if the pain escalates or you feel it's necessary. Your health is important, and addressing your concerns head-on is the best path forward.
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