What is the cause of a patient's concerns regarding her menses, given her last menstrual period (LMP) was January 31, 2025, with a regular 7-day cycle, history of tubal ligation (2018), ovarian cysts, bloating, and left pelvic pain, amidst stress and sleep deprivation?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 31, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Menses Concern

  • The patient presents with concerns about her menses, bloating, and left pelvic pain, with a history of ovarian cysts and tubal ligation.
  • The following differential diagnoses are considered:

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Hormonal Fluctuations or Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): The patient's symptoms of bloating and pelvic pain, in conjunction with her regular menstrual cycle and history of ovarian cysts, suggest that hormonal fluctuations or PMS may be the most likely diagnosis. The patient's stress and sleep deprivation may also exacerbate these symptoms.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Ovarian Cyst: The patient's history of ovarian cysts and current symptoms of bloating and left pelvic pain make it likely that she may be experiencing a new or recurring ovarian cyst.
  • Constipation or Bowel Habits: Although the patient reports daily bowel movements, her stress and sleep deprivation may be contributing to bowel irregularities or discomfort, which could be exacerbating her symptoms.
  • Stress-Related Symptoms: The patient's significant stress at work and sleep deprivation may be contributing to her physical symptoms, including bloating and pelvic pain.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Ectopic Pregnancy: Although the patient had a tubal ligation in 2018, it is essential to rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening if missed.
  • Ovarian Torsion: The patient's history of ovarian cysts increases her risk for ovarian torsion, which is a medical emergency requiring prompt attention.
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Although the patient denies vaginal drainage, PID is a potential diagnosis that should not be missed, as it can lead to severe consequences if left untreated.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Endometriosis: Although the patient has a history of ovarian cysts, endometriosis is a less likely diagnosis given her age and lack of other symptoms such as dysbarenia.
  • Uterine Fibroids: The patient's symptoms of bloating and pelvic pain could potentially be related to uterine fibroids, although this is a less likely diagnosis given her age and lack of other symptoms.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.