Can I undergo a physical examination when my menstrual pain is severe?

When dysmenorrhea is severe, a physical examination can generally be performed, but it needs to be judged comprehensively based on the type of examination items and the degree of pain. If the physical examination involves abdominal compression, gynecological examination and other items that may exacerbate discomfort, it is recommended to avoid menstruation or peak pain periods. Routine blood tests, electrocardiograms, ultrasound examinations, and other tests are usually not affected by dysmenorrhea. Blood tests can evaluate hormone levels or anemia, electrocardiograms can rule out heart related issues, and ultrasound can help observe the structure of the uterine adnexa. These tests conducted during menstrual cramps will not interfere with the accuracy of the results, but it is necessary to inform the doctor in advance that they are currently in their menstrual period in order to interpret the data reasonably. If the physical examination includes items that require vigorous activity such as exercise load testing, it may be affected by decreased physical strength or abdominal pain during menstruation, and it is recommended to adjust the examination time. Physical examination items involving abdominal palpation, gynecological examination, or vaginal ultrasound may exacerbate pain due to pelvic congestion. Severe dysmenorrhea can increase uterine sensitivity, and instrument contact may cause reflexive spasms. This type of examination is recommended to be performed 3-7 days after the end of menstruation, when the endometrium is thin and the discomfort during the examination is relatively mild. If menstrual examination is necessary, warm uterus patches can be used in advance to relieve spasms, and painkillers such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules can be taken 30 minutes before the examination to prevent pain from worsening.

During menstrual cramps, loose fitting clothing should be worn for easy on and off, and sanitary tampons should be carried to avoid leakage during the examination. Drink brown sugar ginger tea one hour before the physical examination to help dilate blood vessels, and after the examination, apply a hot water bag to the lower abdomen for 15 minutes to relieve spasms. Record the daily pain level and duration. If abnormal conditions such as elevated CA125 or ovarian cysts are found during physical examination, clinical manifestations should be combined to determine whether it is a physiological change during menstruation. It is recommended to have a follow-up examination after menstruation is over to confirm.