Menstrual cramps with a fever

Menstrual cramps that occur with a fever may mean an infection in the pelvic organs. During your period, bacteria can travel up the vagina into the uterus and fallopian tubes and cause an infection. This is more common during menstruation but can occur at any time during the menstrual cycle.

Symptoms of a pelvic infection may include:

• Pelvic pain, especially during intercourse.
• Bad-smelling vaginal discharge.
• Bleeding between periods and after intercourse.
• Fever.

Pelvic infections are usually caused by bacteria. It is important to treat pelvic infections right away to:

• Prevent scarring of the fallopian tubes, which increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy and can cause infertility.
• Keep the infection from spreading to other parts of the body.
• Reduce the risk of passing the infection to your partner.

Sexually active women, especially those who have more than one sex partner, are more likely to have pelvic infections. In addition, the risk for infection is increased if you:

• Have sexual intercourse without using a condom.
• Have more than one sex partner.
• Have a partner who has more than one sex partner.
• Have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place.
• Have a previous history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• Have had sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
• Have cancer.
• Have diabetes.
• Use steroids.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is an extremely rare condition that has been linked with tampon use. An important symptom of TSS is a rash that looks like a sunburn that develops within 2 days of the onset of a fever of 102° (39°) or higher. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle aches, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, profound weakness, confusion, and signs of shock.

If you have symptoms of a pelvic infection, do not have sexual intercourse until you see your health professional. This will reduce the risk of spreading a possible infection to your partner.