What is Pelvic Pain? How is it Treated?

Pelvic pain can occur in both men and women. It may result from infections, abnormalities in internal organs, or pain in the pelvic bones. In women, pelvic pain may be related to the reproductive system. Treatment varies depending on the diagnosis.

What is Pelvic Pain?

Although pelvic pain often refers to pain in the area of a woman’s reproductive organs, it can occur in both men and women.

Pelvic pain may be a sign of an infection or result from pain in the pelvic bones or non-reproductive internal organs.

However, in women, pelvic pain may indicate an issue with one of the reproductive organs in the pelvic area (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina).

What Causes Pelvic Pain?

There are many reasons why you might develop pelvic pain. Possible causes of pelvic pain in both men and women include:

• Appendicitis
• Bladder disorders (such as urinary tract infections)
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Kidney infection or kidney stones
• Bowel disorders
• Nerve conditions (such as pinched nerves in the spine)
• Hernia
• Pelvic disorders (such as pelvic muscle spasms)
• Fractured pelvic bones
• Psychogenic pain (pain related to past stress or psychological trauma)

Possible causes of pelvic pain in women include:

• Pregnancy
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Miscarriage
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Ovulation
• Menstrual cramps
• Ovarian cysts or other ovarian disorders
• Uterine fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Cervical cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Ovarian cancer

What Are the Symptoms of Pelvic Pain?

Pelvic pain may be accompanied by other symptoms or warning signs. Some of the most common symptoms of pelvic pain include:

• Vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge
• Menstrual cramps
• Dysuria (painful urination)
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bloating or gas
• Rectal bleeding
• Pain during sex
• Fever or chills
• Hip pain
• Groin pain

Diagnosis and Treatment

How is pelvic pain diagnosed?

To diagnose the cause of pelvic pain, your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. Physical exams or other tests may also help identify the cause of pelvic pain. The following may be performed for diagnosis:

• Blood and urine tests
• Pregnancy tests for individuals of reproductive age
• Vaginal or penile cultures to check for sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia
• Abdominal and pelvic X-rays
• Laparoscopy (a procedure allowing direct viewing of structures in the pelvis and abdomen)
• Hysteroscopy (a procedure to examine the uterus)
• Stool samples to check for signs of blood
• Lower endoscopy (inserting a lighted tube to examine the rectum and colon)
• Ultrasound (using sound waves to provide images of internal organs)
• CT scan (a scan using X-rays and computers to produce cross-sectional images of the body)

How is Pelvic Pain Treated?

Treatment for pelvic pain depends on various factors, such as the cause, intensity, and frequency of the pain. Common treatments include:

• Medication: Pelvic pain is sometimes treated with medication, including antibiotics if needed.
• Surgery: If the pain is due to an issue with a pelvic organ, treatment may involve surgery or other procedures.
• Physical therapy: Your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy in some cases to relieve pelvic pain.

Living with chronic pelvic pain can be stressful and upsetting. Research shows that working with a trained counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist can be beneficial in many cases. Your doctor can provide more information about various treatments for pelvic pain.

How Can I Treat Pelvic Pain at Home?

If you have chronic pelvic pain, there are several things you can do at home to alleviate symptoms. For example:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can reduce swelling that causes pelvic pain. Acetaminophen can also ease symptoms.
• Exercise: Even if you don’t feel like moving, exercise can improve blood flow and reduce discomfort.
• Heat: Apply a heating pad or warm compress to the area or soak in a hot bath.
• Quit smoking: Tobacco products can inflame nerves and cause pain. Avoiding these habits may help reduce discomfort.
• Take supplements: If your pelvic pain symptoms stem from a vitamin or mineral deficiency, supplements may help alleviate discomfort. Speak with your healthcare provider before adding supplements to your routine.
• Relaxation exercises: Yoga or meditation can help reduce stress and tension, which may ease chronic pain.

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