About Pelvic Pain: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain is discomfort felt in the lower part of your belly, between your hips. Often, this pain can be mild or severe. Sometimes, it comes and goes. In other cases, it may last a long time. Pelvic pain can affect both men and women, but it is more common in women. Because it can have many causes, it is important to understand what might be happening. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), pelvic pain is a common health concern worldwide.

Common Symptoms of Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain can feel different for each person. For example, you may notice:

A dull ache or sharp pain in the lower belly

Pain that comes and goes or stays constant

Pain during urination or bowel movements

Discomfort during sex

Pressure or heaviness in the pelvic area

Lower back pain

Sometimes, pelvic pain may be linked with other symptoms. For instance, you might have fever, nausea, or unusual vaginal bleeding. If you notice these, you should seek medical help right away.

Main Causes of Pelvic Pain

There are many reasons why pelvic pain can happen. Some causes are short-term, while others are long-lasting. Here are some common causes:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs): These can cause burning and pain in the pelvis.

Menstrual cramps: Many women feel pain during their periods.

Ovarian cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries that can cause pain.

Endometriosis: This is when tissue like the lining of the uterus grows outside it, causing pain.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This infection affects the female reproductive organs.

Digestive issues: Problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can lead to pelvic pain.

Muscle or joint problems: Sometimes, pain comes from strained muscles or joints in the pelvis.

Pregnancy-related causes: Pain can happen during pregnancy due to many changes in the body.

In rare cases, pelvic pain may signal a serious problem, such as appendicitis or a ruptured cyst. Therefore, it is important to get checked if the pain is sudden or severe.

How Pelvic Pain Is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to find the cause of pelvic pain. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may do a physical exam. Sometimes, they order tests to learn more. These tests may include:

Urine tests to check for infections

Blood tests to look for signs of illness

Ultrasound or other imaging tests to see inside the pelvis

Pelvic exam for women to check the reproductive organs

Because pelvic pain has many causes, your doctor may need to do several tests. This helps them find the right treatment for you.

Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain

Treatment depends on the cause of your pelvic pain. Often, doctors use a mix of methods to help you feel better. Some common treatments include:

Medications: Pain relievers, antibiotics for infections, or hormone treatments for certain conditions

Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches to ease muscle pain

Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to fix problems like cysts or endometriosis

Lifestyle changes: Eating healthy, staying active, and managing stress can help reduce pain

For some people, simple home remedies like heat packs or gentle exercise can also help. However, you should always talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention Strategies

While not all pelvic pain can be prevented, some steps may lower your risk. For example, you can:

Practice safe sex to reduce the risk of infections

Drink plenty of water to help prevent urinary infections

Exercise regularly to keep your muscles strong

Eat a balanced diet with fiber to support digestive health

Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga

Additionally, regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch problems early. If you notice new or worsening symptoms, seek medical advice right away.

When to See a Doctor

Pelvic pain can have many causes, so it is important not to ignore it. If your pain is severe, sudden, or lasts more than a few days, see a healthcare professional. Also, if you have fever, vomiting, or heavy bleeding, get help right away. Early treatment can prevent serious problems and help you feel better sooner.

Consult a healthcare professional at Solace Center for Pain Management for personalized advice on pelvic pain.