What Causes Pelvic Pain?
Pelvic pain can originate due to a variety of factors, including:
Infection:
Pelvic inflammatory disease is one of the most prevalent kinds of pelvic infection. PID is a uterine, ovarian, or fallopian tube infection. Pelvic pain can also be due to infections of the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. An infection of the urinary tract is the most common cause of pelvic pain in males.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases:
Pelvic pain is a symptom of several STDs. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most frequent STDs. They do not necessarily result in symptoms. However, if they occur, you may experience pain when peeing, bleeding between periods, and irregular vaginal discharge. Consult your doctor. It is also crucial to have partners tested and treated so that the infection does not spread.
Ectopic Pregnancy:
In women, ectopic pregnancy can cause significant pelvic pain. When a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes, ectopic pregnancy develops. Ectopic pregnancy, in addition to causing pain, can lead to severe problems and necessitate surgical intervention.
Endometriosis:
Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which uterine tissue develops on some other reproductive organs. During menstruation, this produces excruciating pain and cramps. It can also induce tiredness and widespread pain. Certain medicines and surgical techniques may help to alleviate the pain of endometriosis.
Ovarian Cysts:
Ovarian cysts are a less significant source of pain in the reproductive organs. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries that commonly cause menstruation pain. These cysts disappear after menstruation, although they may require surgery sometimes.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
It could happen as you become older. Your bladder or uterus lowers in position. It is usually not a significant health issue, although it can be unpleasant. You may feel pressure against the vaginal wall or a feeling of fullness in your lower abdomen. It may also cause pain in the pelvis or lower back and make sex painful. Kegel exercises or surgery may be beneficial.
Interstitial Cystitis (IC):
It is a disorder that causes chronic pain due to bladder inflammation. People suffering from severe IC may need to pee several times per hour. You may also have pressure above the pelvic area, pain while urinating, and pain during intercourse. Although this is a chronic illness, there are treatments to alleviate symptoms.
Tissue Scar:
It can cause pain if you’ve undergone surgery or an infection. Adhesions are a sort of scar tissue that forms within your body. They develop when organs or structures get combined. Some types of pelvic pain are neuropathic. It means they have no known source.
How is Pelvic Pain Diagnosed?
Diagnosis:
This pain can be difficult to diagnose, but a precise diagnosis is essential for effective therapy. Your doctor will obtain a comprehensive medical history, including the occurrence, duration, and location of the pain.
An OB/GYN may perform a pelvic examination, lab testing, and ultrasound or CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis on women. Male pelvic pain is evaluated similarly, with a urologist performing a physical exam if necessary.
Treatment Options for Pelvic Pain
Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause. Typical treatment options include:
1. Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, antidepressants, and neuropathic medicines are common forms of pain treatments. Antibiotic treatment may be necessary for infections.
2. Physical Therapy:
Pelvic floor therapy, heat and cold treatments, ultrasound therapy, and stretching are part of pelvic pain physical therapy. In the absence of infection or other clear causes, pelvic floor therapy is the primary care for unexplained pain.
3. Biofeedback:
Biofeedback is a pain-management approach in which a person learns to control their body processes. It can be beneficial in the treatment of this sort of pain.
A certified therapist can provide biofeedback and relaxation exercises. These approaches assist patients in better managing chronic pain and can be beneficial in combination with other therapies.
4. Nerve Blocks:
Neuropathic pelvic pain is difficult to treat. However, nerve blocks may be effective. The location of pelvic pain and somatic symptoms determine nerve block placement.
According to a study, a Pudendal Nerve Block provided relief to 95% of women. Another study discovered that a Superior Hypogastric Plexus Block significantly reduced endometriosis pain. An Ilioinguinal Nerve Block is another form of nerve block used to alleviate pain. It is particularly beneficial in the treatment of pain in the lower pelvic area and groin.
5. Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulator:
A Dorsal Root Ganglion stimulator may be effective for pain that does not respond to more conservative treatment techniques. Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) stimulation is a “pain pacemaker.” This treatment involves cutting-edge technology to deliver an electrical current to the epidural area near the damaged nerve.
Your doctor will insert the trial DRG leads into the area surrounding the damaged nerve after providing a local anesthetic. These delicate, thin wires will be there for five to seven days. If the trial relieves your pain, your doctor will insert a permanent DRG.
