Pelvic pain is a common health issue that affects many women, often causing discomfort and impacting their daily lives. This enigmatic condition manifests in various forms and intensities, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Understanding the underlying reasons behind pelvic pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here, the best lady gynecologist in Newtown has discussed them.
Causes of pelvic pain in women
- Menstrual Cramps and Dysmenorrhea: One of the most prevalent causes of pelvic pain in women is dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual cramps. The uterus contracts during menstruation to shed its lining, causing pain and discomfort. For some women, these contractions can be severe, leading to intense pelvic pain before or during menstruation.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): As per the best gynecologist in Newtown, PID is an infection of the reproductive organs resulting from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. Untreated infections can spread to the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries, causing pelvic pain and discomfort and potentially leading to long-term complications like infertility.
- Endometriosis: It occurs when the tissue that looks similar to the uterus lining grows outside. This tissue responds to the menstrual cycle, causing the formation of scar tissue, resulting in pain and inflammation. Women with endometriosis often experience chronic pelvic pain, especially during their menstrual periods.
- Fibroids: Uterine fibroids refer to noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. Based on the size and location, fibroids can cause pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on the bladder or rectum, leading to discomfort and pain.
- Ovarian Cysts: Ovarian cysts develop on or within the ovaries. While most cysts are benign and resolve on their own, larger or ruptured cysts can cause pelvic pain bloating and, in some cases, require medical intervention.
- Interstitial Cystitis: Interstitial cystitis (IC) refers to a chronic condition that affects the bladder, causing pelvic pain and urinary symptoms. The pain is often described as a chronic, painful, or uncomfortable pressure in the pelvic region. IC can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and daily activities.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Pelvic organ prolapse happens because of the weakening of the muscles and ligaments supporting the pelvic organs weaken, causing the organs to drop into or protrude out of the vaginal canal. This can result in pelvic pressure, aching, or discomfort.
- Adhesions or Scar Tissue: Previous surgeries, infections, or inflammatory conditions can result in the formation of adhesions within the pelvic region. These adhesions can cause pain and restrict the normal movement of pelvic organs.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, which may radiate to the pelvic area. The overlap of gastrointestinal and gynecological symptoms can sometimes make it challenging to pinpoint the exact source of the pain.
Pelvic pain in women can stem from a variety of sources, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation by the best lady gynecologist in Newtown to identify the root cause. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help manage and alleviate pelvic pain.