What is Causing Your Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is defined as any pain that occurs internally in the part of the trunk below the belly button. Many women suffer from pelvic pain and assume it is normal, when it is actually a sign that something is amiss. Pelvic pain should always prompt you to visit your OBGYN, since it could be caused by any of the problems described below.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which your uterine lining actually grows outside your uterus. In most cases, it just grows into your fallopian tubes, but it can also grow up and around your abdominal organs. This often leads to severe cramping and pelvic pain during a woman's period, and it can also lead to cramping between periods. Endometriosis can often be controlled with birth control pills, although some women require surgical procedures to remove the excess lining.

Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts are basically little pockets of abnormal, fluid-filled tissue that can appear on the ovaries. They can cause cramping and pain throughout the menstrual cycle. When one bursts, it can cause piercing, sharp pain. Ovarian cysts can contribute to hormonal imbalances and make it tough to become pregnant. Sometimes they need to be surgically removed, and other times, they can be managed with various hormone supplements.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease is a chronic inflammation of the pelvic organs including the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It is usually the result of an untreated case of chlamydia. This is more common than you might think since in many women, the initial symptoms of chlamydia are easy to overlook or mistake as a yeast infection. Pelvic inflammatory disease can have a lasting impact on fertility, and the sooner it is treated, the better. Treatment usually involves antibiotics taken orally for about 10 days.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are fibrous growths that can appear in and around the uterus. They can cause some of the uterine tissue to be pulled together or put under strain, which can lead to severe, sharp pains. Fibroids usually need to be surgically removed, and it is easiest to have this done before they get too severe.

If you have been suffering from pelvic pain of any kind, contact your OBGYN. They will probably want to schedule an appointment and conduct a pelvic exam, perhaps along with some imaging tests, to see what's causing the pain and how to best address it. Talk to a doctor that has experience in the obstetric area of medicine to learn more.

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