What could be the causes of Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain can interfere with daily activities such as work and exercise, but it can also be a sign that something is wrong

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pelvic pain in women is incredibly common. One in six women of childbearing age has experienced pelvic pain in the past few months. It’s not a minor inconvenience.

Let’s identify where the pain is arising from and what could  be the causes:

1)       If you have Pain in the Centre of Your Pelvis which is :

Ø  Strong, persistent need to urinate

Ø  Cloudy, strong-smelling urine

Ø  Burning sensation when you urinate

It Might Be a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

UTI is caused by a bacterial infection in the kidneys, uterus, bladder or urethra, a urinary tract infection can be extremely painful and demands immediate attention.

2)      If Slight Pressure or Pain in Pelvis with the following  symptoms it could be

·         Heavy menstrual bleeding

·         Periods lasting longer than a week

·         Frequent urination

It Might Be Uterine Fibroids

This condition arises when the muscle cells of the uterus become overgrown, they can interfere with some of the organs in the pelvis.

3)      Dull Ache in Your Lower Abdomen with

·         Fullness or pressure in your abdomen

·         Bloating

·         Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain

It Might Be Ovarian Cyst

These small sacs of fluid are rarely cancerous and often don’t even cause symptoms. But if they are painful, you might need medication or surgery.

4)      Pain in Your Lower Belly or Pelvis with

·         Heavy, unpleasant-smelling vaginal discharge

·         Bleeding during or after sexual intercourse

·         Fever or chills

It Might Be Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

This infection of the fallopian tubes, ovaries and/or uterus is caused by a sexually transmitted infection.

5)      Persistent Pressure in Your Pelvis

·         Aching lower back

·         Pain during sex

·         Urinary problems such as leaking

·         Constipation

It Might be Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse occurs when the tissues supporting the organs in the pelvis relax too much, causing those organs to drop down and press against or bulge into the vagina. It may feel like pressure or like something is falling out.

6)      Sharp, Stabbing Pain with the following

·         Menstruation

·         You are having sex

·         During bowel movements

It Might Be Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that develops inside the uterus grows on the outside of the uterus instead.

Severe Abdominal Pain

·         Abnormal vaginal bleeding

·         Extreme light headedness or fainting

It Might Be an Ectopic Pregnancy .This serious condition occurs when an embryo begins to develop outside of the uterus. This can be life-threatening.

In general, if one is feeling concerned about all the conditions which pelvic pain might be hiding right now. The best way to address your fears is by going to a gynaecologist for a check-up.

Your gynaecologist will assess your pelvic pain, the doctor might order blood/urine tests, ultrasounds or laparoscopy to inform their diagnosis. Treatments could include medications such as pain relievers or antibiotics, hormonal therapy, physical therapy or counselling services.

Surgery may also need surgery, if the problem is something like an ectopic pregnancy, fibroids, endometriosis or ovarian cysts.

Please visit Obstetrics and gynaecology department at Wockhardt Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.