I have been experiencing severe lower abdominal/pelvic pain extending from left to right and into my lower back, occurring intermittently about 2–3 times a month for nearly a year. There is no clear association with my periods or bowel movements, although it occasionally seems to start after a bowel movement. My bowel movements are generally normal, with mild occasional constipation, but I do experience burning around the anus after passing stool. Two recent abdominal ultrasounds were normal, and blood tests six months ago were also normal except for an elevated ESR of 56. I am not sexually active, so pregnancy is not a concern. I am worried about bowel or rectal cancer, although I have no family history and have not noticed any blood in my stool. However, hearing about more young people being diagnosed has made me increasingly concerned.