Although pelvic pain often refers to pain in the lower part of the trunk, the area under the abdomen, and between the bones of the pelvis. Many women suffer from pelvic pain. However, this pain is an indication that there may be a problem with one of the reproductive organs in the pelvic area (uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, cervix, or vagina). The pain is considered chronic if it lasts for more than 4 to 6 months.
The pelvic pain may be sharp or cramp-like (such as menstrual pain) and may come and go, or be sudden and transfixing, dull and constant, or a mixture of both. The pain can also gradually increase in intensity, sometimes in waves. It often occurs in cycles coinciding with menstruation, that is to say, the pain can occur every month, before or during menstruation or in the middle of the menstrual cycle, during ovulation (release of the egg).
The area may be sensitive to touch. Depending on the cause, women may have bleeding from the vagina. The pain may be accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and/or dizziness.
What are the possible causes of pelvic pain in women?
Several types of diseases and conditions that cause pelvic pain include:
1. Fibroids
2. Ovulation
3. Miscarriage
4. Endometriosis
5. Uterine cancer
6. Cervical cancer
7. Ectopic pregnancy
8. Menstrual cramps
9. Pelvic inflammatory disease
10. Ovarian cysts or other ovarian disorders
What are the Possible Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic pain?
While pain is the main symptom of pelvic pain, the other symptoms vary from woman to woman including:
1. Fever or chills
2. Menstrual pain
3. Bloating or gas
4. Pain during intercourse
5. Constipation or diarrhea
6. Painful or difficult urination
7. Pain in the hip and groin area
8. Worsening of menstrual cramps
9. Blood is seen with a bowel movement
10. Vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge
11. Dizziness, sudden loss of consciousness,
12. A significant drop in blood pressure (shock)
Severe and sudden pain, especially if it is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, or agitation.
Management and Treatment for Pelvic Pain
The management of pelvic pain varies depending on the cause, how intense the pain is, and how often the pain occurs. Sometimes, pelvic pain is managed with medications, including antibiotics if necessary. If the pain results from a problem with one of the pelvic organs, the treatment may include medicines, surgery, physical therapies, or other pain management procedures. A physician can determine probable causes based on the description of the pain, its relationship to the menstrual cycle, and the results of the clinical examination.
Therefore, if women are of childbearing age, a pregnancy test is performed. Urine tests and generally other tests, such as blood tests and pelvic ultrasounds, are performed to confirm the intended diagnosis. Menstrual cramps are a common cause of pelvic pain but are only diagnosed when all other causes have been eliminated. Your doctor can provide more information about various treatments and management techniques for pelvic pain.
When to consult a doctor
Women with the most warning signs should seek immediate medical attention. However, if the only sign is vaginal bleeding after menopause, they can consult within a week.
If women suffer from abdominal pain with no warning signs that are steady and progressing steadily, they should see a doctor the same day. If these pains are not constant and do not worsen, they must schedule a medical visit, at their convenience, but it is not dangerous to wait a few days.
Pelvic or chronic pain should test by a doctor. Light menstrual cramps are normal. Menstrual cramps do not require examination unless they are very painful.