Persistent Abdominal Discomfort for a Month
**Age:** 39 **Gender:** Female (She/Her) **Weight:** 180 lbs **Height:** 5’6” **Smoking Habits:** 6 cigarettes daily **Current Medications:** - Zoloft: 150 mg daily - Alprazolam: 0.5 mg nightly **Medical History:** - Complex PTSD - Panic and anxiety disorders - Diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) On January 13, I was prescribed progesterone to induce menstruation, as it had been several months since my last period. I am not using any form of birth control. My most recent menstrual cycle lasted around 8 days, accompanied by significant pain and intense bleeding. Following its conclusion, I felt brief relief, only to find that a new wave of pain began, predominantly on my right side. For a week, the discomfort persisted and escalated. Concerned, I contacted my OBGYN, who advised me to visit the emergency room. After another week of taking Advil with no improvement, I reached out to my doctor once more, only to receive a phone call canceling my appointment and reiterating the need to go to the ER. Upon my visit to the emergency room, they conducted a CT scan and an ultrasound. The results indicated that my appendix appeared normal, and I had cysts on the left side, but no other issues were identified. The medical staff suggested that it might be a muscle strain, although I was certain that was not the case. They ultimately stated there was nothing further they could offer. I had hoped that the reassuring results would lead to alleviation of my pain, but if anything, it has intensified. I reached out again to my OBGYN office, where I was told that the doctors were away on vacation, just as I had been informed the previous week. I was once again advised to seek help at the ER. I feel like I am being tossed around with no consideration given to my plight. I ended up in tears during a call because my pain has impeded my ability to walk. Despite my distress, it seems no one has taken meaningful action to assist me. This echoes my previous experiences last year when, after suffering a traumatic event, I was met with insensitivity and inappropriate questioning, particularly from women in the medical field, which added to my sense of trauma and neglect.
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 9:00:58 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about your ongoing abdominal discomfort and the distressing experiences you've faced in trying to get help. It's understandably frustrating and overwhelming to feel ignored and in pain. Let’s focus on a few key areas to help manage your symptoms more effectively.
Main Points
- Persistent Pain Needs Attention: Your ongoing abdominal pain, particularly following your menstrual cycle and the presence of cysts, deserves careful monitoring and follow-up.
- Self-Care Strategies: While you seek further medical input, there are immediate self-care measures you can adopt to help alleviate discomfort.
- Keeping a Symptom Diary: Tracking your symptoms will be valuable for future consultations with healthcare providers.
Explanation
Persistent abdominal discomfort can arise from various sources, especially given your history of PCOS and the recent hormonal treatments. Cysts on the ovaries can cause pain and discomfort, and although the initial imaging didn’t show alarming conditions like appendicitis, the emotional and physical toll is important to address. The suggestion of muscle strain is possible, especially if stress and tension are contributing factors.
Given your feelings of frustration from not receiving adequate care, focusing on what you can control is essential. Keeping track of your symptoms can help clarify what’s happening and guide future healthcare interactions.
Next Steps
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Self-Care Measures:
- Heat Therapy: Apply a warm compress or heating pad on your abdomen to help relieve pain and cramping.
- Hydration and Rest: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and get enough rest, as abdominal pain can often be exacerbated by dehydration and fatigue.
- Gentle Movement: If possible, engage in light stretching or yoga to reduce tension in the abdominal area. Movement can sometimes help alleviate discomfort.
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Symptom Diary:
- Start recording the nature, intensity, and timing of your pain (e.g., what increases it or makes it better, any related symptoms like nausea or changes in bowel habits).
- Note your menstrual cycle details, as hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role in your symptoms.
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Seek Further Support:
- If you continue to feel unheard, consider reaching out to a patient advocacy group or support network, particularly one that specializes in chronic pain or women’s health. Express your needs and concerns to someone who can help facilitate better communication with healthcare providers.
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Follow-Up Medical Plan:
- While waiting for a better appointment with your OBGYN, if pain escalates or new symptoms arise (like fever or vomiting), return to the ER. Being proactive about your pain helps ensure you receive attention.
It’s important to keep pushing for the care you need. Remember that your experience and symptoms are valid, and you deserve prompt and compassionate medical attention. If at any point you're feeling particularly distressed or overwhelmed, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can help provide additional support as you navigate this tough time. Never hesitate to reach out if you need more guidance or reassurance.
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