Why You Should Never Ignore Pelvic Pain

As many as 15% of adult American women are estimated to have chronic pelvic pain, lasting six months or longer, but the true number is hard to place since many people simply live with the symptoms, particularly when the pain comes and goes. Nearly one-third have pain that’s severe enough to cause lost time at work or otherwise interfere with their daily lives. 

Pelvic anatomy

The pelvic region is a busy area, responsible for much of the reproductive process and home to many organs. Including your uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina, it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint the source of your pain. This may be a reason why some women don’t report their symptoms to a doctor, along with the embarrassment some may feel discussing this part of their bodies. 

Plenty of issues contribute to pelvic pain, including appendicitis, urinary tract infections, and fibroids. Some causes are minor while others can be more serious conditions like cancer. Regardless of the source or intensity, recurring pelvic pain should always be discussed with a medical professional. 

Endometriosis

One study found that 71-81% of women with chronic pelvic pain have endometriosis, a condition in which uterine tissue, called endometrial tissue, grows outside the uterus. If left untreated, endometriosis may interfere with a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Pain from endometriosis may range from mild to severe.

Sex life impact

Many of the conditions that cause pelvic pain such as endometriosis, vulvodynia, and urinary tract infections, also result in painful or uncomfortable intercourse. This is usually resolved with treatment for the underlying cause of pelvic pain. 

A symptom of cancer 

More than 80,000 women a year are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers. If caught early, most pelvic cancers are treatable. Since symptoms of cancer often mimic those of other conditions, it’s important to review any recurrent abdominal pain such as gas, indigestion, bloating, and cramps with your primary care physician or gynecologist.  

Secondary effects 

Chronic pain of any kind can lead to insomnia, depression, anxiety, and poor quality of life. You may not immediately connect these symptoms with your pelvic pain, since they tend to build over time, after chronic pain is already in place. 

Treating pelvic pain 

The experienced caregivers at Albany Obstetrics and Gynecology use diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, laparoscopy, and cystoscopy to determine the cause of your pelvic pain and develop an effective treatment plan. This may be as simple as lifestyle changes or over-the-counter pain medication, or you may need prescription medication or more advanced therapies. 

The important first step is discussing your pain and any other symptoms, whether you think they’re related or not, with your physician at Albany Obstetrics and Gynecology. Call us at (518) 516-6726 or request an appointment online today.