Dr. Usha Vishwanath MD, DGO

Evaluation of abdominal pain in a woman requires a methodical approach apart from meticulous history taking.

The major causes of abdominal pain can be classified according to the age of the woman:
Young adolescent girl
Women of child bearing age
Post menopausal age group



This classification is useful in focusing on the common causes of abdominal pain in these age groups.

Common aspects of history

What is the clinical presentation?
Is the Pain localized or generalized?
Is it associated with menses or ovulation?
Is there any vaginal bleeding?
Is there Fever?
Are there associated G.I. symptoms e.g. nausea, vomiting etc?
Are there associated urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency and dysuria?
What are the patients’ vital signs?


If patient shows features of shock like tachycardia, hypotension
RULE OUT ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
If associated with menses, it is probably spasmodic dysmenorrhoea.
If abdominal distention with guarding and rigidity are present
peritonitis
secondary to septic abortion must be considered.
Exclude urinary tract infection, renal calculus, surgical causes e.g. appendicitis.
Start an intravenous line if the patient is severely ill or the vital signs are unstable.
Keep the patient NPO (nothing by mouth) if surgery is anticipated.





Comments

salma_42, United Kingdom

3 years ago i went early menopause and my last period was 2 years ago, but 2 days ago i stated bleeding even though is not much i have abdominal pain as well please let me know.

luubabe, Nigeria

Is taking ice cubes harmful to my health? How is taking too cold drinks associated to abdominal pains?

manju11246, India

Abdonimal pain was treated with OFLOXACIN AND ORNIDAZOLE tablets with improvement.When CAPSULES of PREBIOTIC were used along with the first drug, the condition of the patient became worse.The second drug was then avoided and the patient improved regularly.