Abdominal pain similar to menstrual cramps.

[suziqtpie]

I'm a 40 year old generally healthy  female.  For the past couple of months I noticed having some mild lower abdominal cramps shortly after having a bowel movement.  I feel fine before and during, it only comes on afterwards.  Not every time, but now happening with increased frequency.  Yesterday was the worst so far, quite strong cramps that lasted about 25 - 30 mins.  It was so uncomfortable I got a little clammy and for just a minute or two I felt like I might throw up.  I was salivating a lot.  However the nausea passed quickly and then the cramping stopped fairly abruptly and I felt perfectly fine.  

The pain is exactly like menstrual cramps, which I've had since starting my period at age 13, except when on birth control pills, which I haven't been on for years.  This pain doesn't coincide with my period, it has at various times occurred at all phases of my cycle.

I have a tendency towards constipation but only when I'm not eating well.  When I eat lots of fiber I like I have been lately, mostly from veg and fruit, I am regular.

I have no history of digestive problems, have never had anything like heartburn, gas, excessive belching or gloating,  etc.  I drink only water, coffee and occasional wine, I don't drink carbonated beverages or anything with aspartame.

I wondered about IBS but I have no other problems but this one, and it seems that IBS often involves diarrhea and constipation.  No gall bladder problems.

No menstrual issues, never had kids.

No family history of this as far as I know.

I am seeing my PCP soon but in the meantime was wondering if anyone else has had this problem or if you have any ideas as to what might be causing it.

Thank you very much.

[patient915]

Welcome to the gastroenterology community!  This might be IBS with some mild constipation.  I agree that seeing your PCP (and maybe also a gastroenterologist about this) is a good idea and in the mean time you can try increasing your fiber intake (like you have been doing) and making sure to drink plenty of water.

[suziqtpie]

*bloating* not 'gloating.'  Sorry!