It is not surprising if you experience pain in your lower abdomen, also known as pelvic pain, since this is a common symptom during your menstrual cycle. However, persistent or chronic pelvic pain is something you should not ignore. There could be a possible underlying medical condition that could be the reason behind the constant pain in your belly. It is essential to identify the causes and seek medical help as early as possible. Memorial City pelvic pain management includes both conservative and surgical interventions to help you find relief.
Pelvic pain- Definition
Pain that is felt in your lower belly and above your legs is called pelvic pain. Most often women experience pelvic pain that could be associated with ovulation and menstruation that is usually alleviated with prescription painkillers. However, pelvic pain when severe, negatively impacts your quality of life, and interferes with your routine activities, requires evaluation by a doctor.
Pelvic pain can be acute if it shows up suddenly when you urinate or have sex, for example. Pelvic pain, when present regularly for a long period of time is termed as chronic pelvic pain.
Watch out for the following signs accompanied by pelvic pain, that require medical attention:
- Abdominal bloating and gas
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Irregular vaginal discharge
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Fever
Causes of Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain can have multiple causes as mentioned below:
- Menstrual cramps
- Ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus)
- Pelvic inflammation
- Miscarriage
- Urinary tract infection
- Appendicitis
- Ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries)
- Ruptured fallopian tube
- Uterine fibroids (abnormal growths on or in the uterine walls)
- Endometriosis (abnormal growth of the tissue lining of the uterus outside the uterus)
- Cancers of the reproductive system
Pelvic Pain- Diagnosis
Early diagnostic procedures must include:
- Evaluation of your symptoms
- Reviewing your medical and family history
- Pelvic examination to check for any tenderness, lump, or swelling in your pelvic region
- Blood tests and urinalysis
- Ultrasound scan to check for fibroids, scar tissue, or cysts
- Hysterectomy, using a special telescope-like device to check the interior of the uterus and remove any polyp, fibroid, or scar tissue.
Treatment of Pelvic Pain
Treatment for pelvic pain depends on the determined cause of the pain.
- Infections can be treated using antibiotics
- Endometriosis or fibroids are managed through pain medications and hormonal therapy
- Other causes of pelvic pain can be treated by physical therapy or contraceptive pills.
When conservative procedures fail to provide relief, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive procedures.
Takeaway
Pelvic pain can be a common symptom during your menstruation, however constant, high-intensity pelvic pain should not be neglected. This could signal the presence of any underlying medical condition. It is important to seek medical help immediately.