27-Year-Old Woman Seeking Guidance on Pain Issues
Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy post; I appreciate any insights you can offer. I just returned from the emergency room after struggling with intense pain on my left side for the past four to five days. This discomfort radiates from my groin, through my hip and lower back, and down my thigh. Unfortunately, the pain has been intensifying. I typically manage my menstrual cycle with birth control pills, a method approved by both my physician and gynecologist. For about a year, I've been skipping my periods using this method, but recently I've chosen to resume experiencing my monthly cycles for personal reasons. This month marked the first instance in nearly a year that I had a full period, although I do experience light spotting occasionally that lasts two to three days. This particular menstrual cycle was fairly routine, not unusually heavy. However, I began to face significant cramping concentrated on my left side, which felt different from typical menstrual cramps that I would usually feel. As the days progressed, this pain extended to my back and down my leg, initially attributing it to normal period discomfort. Despite using over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, ibuprofen, and Aleve, none provided relief. Fast forward to last night: my period had concluded about three days earlier, yet the pain persisted, becoming so severe that I found myself in tears whether I was trying to stand, sit, or lie down. My attempts at relief with medications and a heating pad failed, and while I experienced intense nausea, I had only minor burps without vomiting. This morning, the pain was overwhelming, prompting a visit to urgent care. They took a urine sample to check for a urinary tract infection, a consideration I hadn't thought of since I experienced no pain during urination and my urine appeared normal—clear, not dark or foul-smelling. The test revealed blood in my urine, but no nitrites—commonly associated with UTIs—were present. Thus, I was referred to the emergency room for further evaluation. At the ER, they conducted blood tests, a CT scan, and required a second urine sample, which yielded similar results regarding blood. My blood results indicated a high platelet count, while the CT scan appeared normal. Ultimately, they diagnosed me with flank pain, recommending Tylenol and ibuprofen for relief. Despite requesting a pelvic exam or ultrasound, my concerns were largely disregarded. I have an appointment with my family doctor tomorrow, who I hope will take my symptoms more seriously, as I have been a patient for several years. Could any of these symptoms suggest issues like an ovarian cyst or endometriosis? It’s also been concerning that I've been experiencing pain during intercourse, the discomfort persists on the left side of my back, hip, groin, and pelvic area, and I’ve been dealing with daily nausea.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 1:01:13 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing pain and the distress it has caused you. Your symptoms, including the severe left-side pain, cramping, and discomfort during intercourse, are indeed concerning and deserve attention and thorough evaluation.
Main Points:
- You may be experiencing issues related to your menstrual cycle, such as ovarian cysts or potential endometriosis, given the intensity of the pain and associated symptoms.
- Immediate self-care involves pain management strategies and tracking your symptoms for the upcoming doctor's visit.
Explanation:
Your history of menstrual cycle management and the recent changes suggest that hormonal fluctuations could be contributing to your discomfort. Severe cramping or pain that radiates could be associated with conditions like ovarian cysts, which are common but can be painful, or endometriosis, where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causing significant pain during menstruation and intercourse.
The blood in your urine is concerning, but since no urinary tract infection was confirmed, it may or may not be directly related to your other symptoms. It's good that you have further appointments scheduled to discuss your concerns and potentially explore imaging or exams that can help clarify your situation.
Next Steps:
-
Pain Management: Continue using over-the-counter pain relief as needed (Tylenol, ibuprofen). Make sure to follow the recommended dosage.
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Symptom Diary: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms over the next few days. Note the intensity of pain, any changes in your menstrual cycle (heavy, light, or any unusual bleeding), experiences of nausea, and occurrences of pain during intercourse. This information will be vital during your appointment with your family doctor.
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Prepare for Your Appointment: List all your concerns, including your desire for a pelvic exam or ultrasound. If you suspect endometriosis or cysts, mention any family history of these conditions as well.
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Follow-Up: Discuss the results of the CT scan and blood tests with your doctor to understand what they suggest regarding your overall health and any next steps.
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Seek Support: If your pain worsens or you experience new symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or worsening nausea, consider getting immediate medical attention.
It's essential that you feel heard by your healthcare providers, so advocate for yourself and express the importance of a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms. You deserve answers and a management plan that addresses your pain and well-being.
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