OpenHealth Q&A

Ten Months Post-Miscarriage: Are My Periods Worsening Normally or Should I Be Concerned?

Background Information: I reside in Scotland, where I have sought all my healthcare services. I got my first period at the age of 11, and while I have always experienced some cramps and irregularities, they were never severe. Between the ages of 14 and 20, I was on birth control. Unfortunately, at the age of 20, I suffered a natural miscarriage that took place around six weeks along. Additionally, I have been diagnosed with asthma, but it is currently well under control. In November 2024, I went through a natural miscarriage, which was an emotionally and physically draining experience. It significantly impacted my body. Ever since that event, my menstrual cycles have been extremely painful—much worse than they were previously. I am now enduring intense cramping that radiates from my abdomen to my vaginal area, right thigh, and back. The pain is so excruciating that sitting down is nearly impossible; it feels like I am experiencing shooting cramps throughout my body. The cramps worsen when I need to use the restroom to the point that I often have to relieve myself standing up in the shower just to find some comfort. Furthermore, I’m grappling with severe constipation, fatigue, and a noticeable loss of appetite during my period. My menstrual flow has also become heavier and more clotty than in the past. In May, I revisited my GP to discuss the worsening condition of my periods. Sadly, I was informed that my symptoms were likely not that serious and were possibly related to mental health issues stemming from the miscarriage. After an examination, my cervix was deemed to be normal, and tests for PCOS—which runs in my family—returned negative. Interestingly, I haven’t been particularly upset by the miscarriage, leaving me skeptical about the mental health explanation. Nevertheless, I’ve been working on improving my wellbeing through journaling and relaxation techniques. I was prescribed the pill again, but I have not noticed any significant improvement. My doctors have suggested that I simply “wait a while” to see if my symptoms improve. I’m reaching a point where I am consuming an excessive number of sick days due to the impact of my periods. I am even contemplating a job change to something with a hybrid model, enabling me to work from home during my most challenging days. The constant fatigue and lack of sleep are also taking their toll on me. I maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise (3 to 5 times a week). I strive to adhere to a routine and keep my weight proportionate to my height and age. To manage the pain, I’ve been using over-the-counter pain relievers and heat therapy, including the Be You patches for additional relief. I have been thinking about exploring private healthcare for a second opinion on whether my symptoms warrant further investigation. My primary inquiry is whether it is reasonable to continue experiencing these difficult periods nearly ten months post-miscarriage or if this could be indicative of a more serious issue that I should address. I anticipated that my periods would be worse for a few months following the miscarriage, but I didn't expect them to remain this bad after such a lengthy period. However, I am not a healthcare professional, and I’m cautious about jumping to the conclusion that something serious is occurring. Thank you in advance for any insights you can provide.

Answers (1)

9/8/2025, 11:30:55 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to be concerned about your menstrual health, especially after experiencing a miscarriage. Your symptoms of severe pain and changes in your menstrual cycle lasting ten months are worth addressing further, as they may indicate potential underlying issues that require attention.

Explanation:

After a miscarriage, it's not uncommon for periods to change temporarily, but persistent worsening symptoms over several months warrant a re-evaluation. The intense cramping radiating to other body areas, heavy and clotty menstrual flow, and additional issues like constipation and fatigue suggest that your body's response may not be typical or simply a delayed adjustment.

Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances can exacerbate menstrual symptoms. While your tests for PCOS were negative, other factors may still be at play, potentially influenced by the physical and emotional impact of the miscarriage.

Next Steps:

1. Consider Seeking a Second Opinion: If you feel your concerns were not fully addressed, a second opinion from another healthcare provider can offer a fresh perspective. Look for a gynecologist who specializes in menstrual disorders or reproductive health.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Continue tracking your menstrual patterns, pain levels, and any associated symptoms (like fatigue and appetite changes) for at least one cycle. Documenting this can help your healthcare provider better understand your situation when you seek further evaluation.

3. Explore Treatment Alternatives: Since the pill hasn’t provided relief, discuss other treatment options with your doctor. Non-hormonal treatments, like dietary changes or supplements (e.g., magnesium or omega-3s), may help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

4. Pain Management: Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers and heat therapy as needed, but consider discussing stronger pain management options with a doctor if your current methods are ineffective.

5. Mental Health Check: While you may not feel particularly upset about the miscarriage, discussing your emotional well-being with a mental health professional can be beneficial. They can help contextualize your experiences and provide support.

6. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Manage constipation with a high-fiber diet, hydration, and possibly gentle laxatives if needed. These dietary changes can assist with your overall comfort during your menstrual cycle.

It's important to prioritize your health and well-being. Your experiences and symptoms are valid, and you deserve to find relief and answers. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself with your healthcare team.