What Causes Abnormal Pains During Menstruation?

Hello. For the past few days, I have been experiencing strange pains in my lower abdomen/uterus area that began when I started my period. I also had these pains two periods ago (in November), though my period in between was normal. In the past, my periods are usually light with not much pain, and so because of these 2 strange periods, I think something may be wrong -- perhaps an infection, I don't know. Side note: I had a ruptured ectopic pregnancy in 1997. I also have a family history of ovarian cancer. I'm 37 yrs. old. I have an appt. with a gynecologist in 10 days, but I would like to know if you think I should go to an emergency room instead of waiting for the appt. I'm scared because, for one thing, my close friend had a severe infection a few years ago and almost had to have a full hysterectomy because of it (because she had waited so long to see a doctor). What's worse is that I live in Switzerland now, and I don't speak the language so it's hard for me to talk to anyone on the phone here. Please advise. Thank you!