As a woman, you already acknowledge that mild-to-moderate aches and cramps are a normal part of your menstrual cycle. Unfortunately, many women also struggle with chronic or ongoing pelvic pain, which can be disruptive to everyday life.
However, you do not have to live with Los Angeles pelvic pain. Understanding the common causes of your discomfort is a great way to determine the best treatment that can offer lasting relief. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy begins outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes. Pelvic pain caused by an ectopic pregnancy generally starts on one side of your abdomen, soon after a missed period. You may also notice vaginal bleeding or spotting.
Ectopic pregnancies could be life-threatening if you do not seek medical intervention immediately. The fallopian tubes may burst and cause abdominal bleeding. In some instances, surgery is necessary to eliminate the affected fallopian tube.
2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Any infection in the pelvic region could cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause blisters, discharge, or even skin lesions. One common warning sign of pelvic inflammatory disease is pain around the pelvic region.
PID is often treatable with medication that addresses the infection, such as antibiotics. However, surgical drainage could be necessary in some cases, especially if an abscess develops.
3. Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are growths in the walls of the uterus. These growths are common throughout a woman’s reproductive years and are generally not cancerous. Fibroids vary in size from tiny to huge lumps that make your belly grow.
In most cases, fibroids do not cause any symptoms. However, larger fibroids can cause pain or pressure in the pelvis. Other common symptoms include heavy bleeding during menses, uncomfortable intercourse, difficulties emptying your bladder completely, and more.
4. Endometriosis
With endometriosis, the tissue that usually lines the uterus develops in other areas of your pelvis. Every month, this tissue thickens and tries shedding, as it would inside the uterus. However, tissue outside the uterus has nowhere to go, causing pelvic discomfort.
Endometriosis causes pelvic discomfort before and during your period. The discomfort could be severe, and sometimes even flare during intercourse or urination. Other common symptoms include fatigue, heavy menstrual bleeding, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea.
5. Sexually Transmitted Infections
Pelvic pain is a warning sign of some STIs. The two most common STIs are gonorrhea and chlamydia. You often acquire both infections at the same time. These STIs do not always cause symptoms.
However, if your condition starts causing symptoms, you might experience pelvic discomfort, pain when urinating, unusual vaginal discharge, and bleeding between periods. Consult your physician if you experience such symptoms to avoid complications and spreading the infection.
6. Ovarian Cysts
Ovaries release eggs once you ovulate. However, sometimes, a follicle might fail to open and release the egg or shut after it swells with the fluid. This condition results in an ovarian cyst.
Ovarian cysts are generally harmless and go away on their own. However, these cysts can cause sudden, intense pain, even sending you to the emergency room. Your doctor will spot them during a pelvic exam or ultrasound and suggest the best care plan.
Pelvic pain could be concerning, and because it is a symptom of many conditions, it could be especially frustrating. Often, common concerns like painful ovulation or menstrual cramping can cause discomfort.
Nonetheless, if your pain is chronic or ongoing, a more serious underlying issue could be the reason for your pain. Consult a specialist to obtain an accurate diagnosis to help manage your symptoms and avoid possibly severe complications.
