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Rectum pain

by Dr Sarah Brewer

question
I am experiencing pain on the outside of my rectum and my vagina (on the top). Could this be something to do with my period? I'm due on my period any moment.

answer
The pain may be related to period cramps, an infection such as cystitis, or to proctalgia fugax - another name for rectal pain. This pain can be quite severe, as it is felt deep in the rectum, but is not usually associated with any particular condition. It may be brought on by straining, constipation, passing wind or by vigorous exercise when the bowel is full. If the spasms tend to last from one to fifteen minutes and subside on their own, it may be due to spasm of the pelvic floor muscles. This is not a diagnosis that should be made without medical assessment - always seek medical advice for recurrent pain.

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