A brief overview

While quite common in women, pelvic pain is an often-misunderstood health concern. Pelvic pain actually refers to discomfort in the lower abdomen, in the area between the belly button and the hips. While occasional mild pelvic discomfort may be related to menstruation, persistent or severe pain can point to an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Let’s take a look at some of the common causes of pelvic pain:

Why does pelvic pain occur?

Pelvic pain cannot be attributed to just one reason – rather it can stem from a number of them. These can range from reproductive to gastrointestinal and urinary issues. Some of the most common causes include:

• Menstrual cramps (Dysmenorrhea): Many women experience cramping pain during their periods, caused by uterine contractions. While common, severe pain should not be ignored.
• Endometriosis: This occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, leading to painful periods, pelvic discomfort and sometimes infertility.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the reproductive organs, often resulting from untreated sexually transmitted infections. It can often trigger chronic pelvic pain.
• Ovarian cysts or fibroids: Growths in or around the ovaries and uterus may cause pressure, heaviness or sharp pain in the pelvis.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): These infections can lead to pain or burning during urination, often accompanied by pelvic discomfort.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Gastrointestinal conditions like IBS can mimic pelvic pain and are often linked to bloating, constipation or diarrhoea.
• Musculoskeletal problems: Weakness or strain in pelvic floor muscles and lower back issues may also contribute to chronic pain.

What are the symptoms associated with pelvic pain?

What pelvic pain feels like is dependent largely on its cause. Women may describe it as dull and aching, sharp and stabbing or a constant pressure in the lower abdomen.

Additional symptoms may include:

• Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain while urinating or passing stools
• Lower back pain
• Bloating or digestive issues

To facilitate diagnosis, it is important to observe whether the pain is linked to the menstrual cycle, occurs suddenly or persists over time.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To determine the cause of pelvic pain, doctors may use a combination of medical history, physical examinations, blood tests, imaging studies (like ultrasound or MRI) and sometimes laparoscopy.

However, the treatment is dependent on a few underlying conditions such as:

• Medications: Pain relievers, hormonal therapy or antibiotics in case of infections.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, stress management and a balanced diet can reduce symptoms.
• Physical therapy: Strengthening pelvic floor muscles may help in musculoskeletal-related pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, removal of fibroids, cysts or treatment for endometriosis may be necessary.

The correct time for medical intervention

Pelvic pain should never be ignored if it persists or is severe. Women should also consult a healthcare provider if pelvic pain interferes with daily activities. Ignoring the symptoms can worsen conditions like endometriosis, infections or fibroid growth.

Don’t play around with pelvic pain

Pelvic pain in women should never be underestimated or put down to “part of being a woman.” While mild menstrual cramps are common, persistent pain deserves medical evaluation. With timely diagnosis and proper treatment, most causes of pelvic pain can be managed effectively.