Premenstrual cramping: Could it be endometriosis?
I am 29, have never been pregnant and I am not on the pill. Lately, I have been experiencing severe cramps and lower abdominal pain a few days before menstruation. Menstrual issues always worry me because my mother had endometriosis. Do you know what might be causing this discomfort?
Question:Peg Plumbo CNM
Peg Plumbo has been a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) since 1976. She has assisted at over 1,000 births and currently teaches in the... Read more
Statistically, endometriosis is a growing problem and a cause of sub-fertility problems among women. Endometriosis could potentially cause premenstrual pain, but more typically, it causes pain with the menses as the implants respond and bleed.
The best diagnostic tool for determining if a woman has endometriosis is laparoscopy. This is a surgical technique where a small lens is used to actually inspect the pelvic cavity. As you have no strong history, or even suspicion, of infertility, you would not be a good candidate for a surgical diagnosis.
If you wish to become pregnant immediately after marriage, then, by all means, go ahead and try right away. You may benefit from testing cervical mucus, position and basal body temperatures so you can better pinpoint when ovulation is occurring and, therefore, maximize your chances. To help learn these techniques, I recommend "Taking Charge of Your Fertility", by Toni Weschler.
Remember that the bowel lies immediately over the uterus and ovaries. If you are constipated or have diarrhea, the uterus will "sympathetically" contract and cramp. Therefore, pay attention to your diet during the premenstrual time. Also, because semen is high in prostaglandins, which can make the uterus contract, avoid intercourse -- or use a condom -- right before your period for a couple of cycles to see if this helps. If you wish to delay conception for a few months after marriage, you might want to consider oral contraceptives as this "quiets" the endometrium.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you the best as you plan your new life and your family.
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