Pelvic Pain

 

gynecologyconcernsroundThe pelvis is the lowest part of the abdomen, and many women feel a great deal amount of pain in this area on a recurring basis. There are several causes of pelvic pain, some of which are short in duration and severe, some of which are debilitating, and some of which are more constant yet are less severe. Below, are the most common gynecological causes of pelvic pain in women:

Ovulation
Ovulation is the production of an egg from the ovary. Some women feel a sharp pain when an egg is released, and this pain is called “Mittelschmerz.” The pain may be on a different side of the pelvis each month, depending on which ovary releases the egg. While the pain typically only lasts a few hours, many women find it to be severe.
Period pains – “Dysmenorrhoea”
Most women have some type of discomfort during their menstrual cycles. However, in 1 out of 10 women, the pain is severe enough to affect their day-to-day activities. Going beyond just menstrual cramps, period pains can prevent women from the ability to go to work, go to school, or to take care of their children while the pain is occurring.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is an infection inside the uterus that is caused by bacteria traveling from the vagina or cervix into the womb. Most cases of PID are caused by chlamydia or gonorrhea, two types of sexually transmitted diseases. Symptoms of PID include pain in the lower abdomen, fever, abnormal bleeding and/or abnormal vaginal discharge.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis causes pain around the time of a woman’s menstrual cycle, and many women with endometriosis find that they experience pain during sex. This condition is most commonly found in women who have difficulties in conceiving, affecting 1 out of 5 females suffering from infertility.
Chronic pelvic pain
Chronic pelvic pain is diagnosed when a woman has experienced pain for at least six months. It is a very common condition, affecting 1 out of 6 women. In many cases, one of the previous conditions is the cause of the pain, but in some women no cause can be identified. When no cause can be identified, treatment will focus on managing the pain. Depression, chronic stress, or a past history of sexual or physical abuse can increase the risk of developing chronic pelvic pain.

At Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A., we are sensitive to the needs of our patients. We understand that pelvic pain can affect every area of your life. Our experienced physicians and staff will develop a personalized plan to treat your pelvic pain and will provide you with the highest quality in women’s health care. Please contact our practice today to schedule an appointment.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Carlos Alarcon, Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates, P.A.