Menstrual Pain (cont.)

Exams and Tests

The health care provider will ask for medical history details, as well as questions about the menstrual pain and symptoms. Be prepared to discuss these details:

• The timing of the cramps in relation to the start of the period
  
  
• Type of pain
  
  
• Age when the cramps first started
  
  
• Any recent change in the pain
  
  
• Irregular periods
  
  
• Vaginal discharge
  
  
• Pain with intercourse
  
  
• Infertility
  
  
• History of pelvic infections
  
  
• Age when first period occurred
  
  
• Current medications

The doctor will perform a pelvic exam to check for any problems. If there are concerns about a possible infection, cervical cultures and a blood test will confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests may be ordered.

• The doctor may order a pregnancy test if the periods are irregular or the woman is not using birth control regularly.
  
  
• An ultrasound examination is necessary if the doctor discovers any abnormal masses during the pelvic exam. The doctor may order other imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which shows the internal structures.
  
  
• A doctor may order a laparoscopy, which is a minor surgical procedure allowing the doctor to look directly into the pelvic cavity with a fiber-optic scope.
  
  
• A hysteroscopy is another possible procedure. By inserting a hysteroscope (lighted instrument) through the vagina, the doctor can see the cervix and inside the uterus.

Next: Menstrual Pain Treatment »

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