TMI - Constipation?

For the past few months I haven't felt able to empty my bowel completely. I go 3 times a week (if i'm lucky) & when i do go it's almost pellet like & it feels incomplete. I have to strain hard even though I try not to, just to get that small amount out. I also often get some stomach cramps especially in my right pelvic area & sometimes on/up my right side. Could this mean I'm constipated? I have an appointment with a GI doctor but just wanna know if anyone has had anything similar happen to them.