8 Common Causes Of Chronic Pelvic Pain

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Overview

Many women suffer from chronic pelvic pain. It can develop for many different reasons, but in some cases, the exact cause cannot be established. If you experience pain in your pelvic area, you should consult your doctor, especially if this pain is new, prevents you from doing your usual activities, or results in uncomfortable feelings. The treatment depends on the underlying cause and usually involves medications, physical therapy, psychotherapy, or surgery (in severe cases). One should not delay with a treatment because incomprehensible pain can lead to such a terrible disease as cancer. In any case, you can take care of yourself and prevent this condition:


What are the most common causes of chronic pelvic pain?

1. Endometriosis

About 5 million American women have it. In this condition, cells that normally line the uterus grow outside of it on organs, such as ovaries, bladder, or rectum. It causes pain and/or cramps before or during periods, and other symptoms, such as lower back pain, pain during intercourse, painful urination and/or bowel movements

2. Interstitial cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (also called ‘painful bladder syndrome’) is an inflammation of the bladder, which is not caused by an infection. It manifests in frequent and urgent need to urinate, painful urination, and pain during intercourse. Chronic pelvic pain can also be caused by urinary tract infections.


3. Pelvic inflammatory disease

It is commonly caused by sexually transmitted bacterial infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, but there can be other causes. Symptoms include vaginal discharge that is different than usual, painful urination, painful periods, severe menstrual cramps, pain during intercourse, fatigue, fever, and nausea.

4. Pelvic congestion syndrome

It’s the same as varicose veins in the legs, but in this case, veins in the pelvis become enlarged. Some women with this condition don’t experience pain, but those who do describe it as dull, aching, or throbbing pain, which gets worse when they sit or stand and subsides when they lie down.


5. Vulvodynia

Women who have this condition experience chronic vulvar pain. Its causes aren’t exactly clear, but it’s thought that previous yeast infections or nerve damage from childbirth or other causes may be to blame.


6. Irritable bowel syndrome

The symptoms of IBS include constipation, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, and incontinence, and they may contribute to pain and pressure in the pelvis.

7. Uterine fibroids

This condition is characterized by benign growths, which may or may not be painful. Other symptoms include heavy and painful periods accompanied by cramps, abdominal pressure, and frequent urination.

8. Psychological factors

Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress can contribute to pain in the pelvis. Victims of physical or sexual abuse can also develop chronic pelvic pain.