By EKalman March 20, 2023 - 1:39am

Women often complain about pelvic pain, which has many potential causes. It can vary from a minor inconvenience to excruciating pain that interferes with everyday activities. It's crucial to see a doctor if you have pelvic pain so they can identify the problem and recommend the best strategy for treatment.

A gynecologist can recommend medication, surgery, or physical therapy depending on the underlying source of the pain. Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction and dietary modifications can also be beneficial in some cases. Here are 10 common causes of pelvic pain in women.

1. Endometriosis
In the condition known as endometriosis, the tissue that usually covers the inside of the uterus develops outside of it, leading to inflammation and pain. Endometriosis can cause excessive period flow and infertility, in addition to severe menstrual cramps, discomfort during intercourse, and persistent pelvic pain. There is not always a direct relationship between the severity of the disease and the degree of the pain.

2. Ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may form on the ovaries. The majority of ovarian cysts are functional cysts, meaning they develop during the menstruation period and typically disappear on their own. However, if they burst or twist, they can cause significant pelvic pain. Bloating, pain in the abdomen and irregular periods are also possible signs of ovarian cysts.

3. Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can form in the uterus. They are extremely widespread and frequently have no signs. However, if they develop big or are found in specific parts of the uterus, they can cause excessive menstrual flow, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or rectum. Fibroids may also contribute to infertility.

4. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
PID is a disease of the reproductive system that can result in vaginal discharge, fever, and pelvic pain. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most common sexually transmitted diseases that cause it. If PID is not addressed, it may result in severe consequences, such as infertility.

5. Adenomyosis
The disease known as adenomyosis occurs when the tissue that typically lines the inside of the uterus grows into the uterine muscle wall. It may result in persistent pelvic pain, severe menstrual cramps, and excessive flow of menstrual blood. Adenomyosis is commonly found in women who have given birth and is frequently confused with uterine fibroids.

6. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
IBS is a digestive condition that can cause pain in the abdomen, bloating, and constipation or diarrhea. It can also induce pelvic pain, particularly in women. IBS's precise source is unclear, but it is thought to be linked to issues with the gut-brain axis.

7. Interstitial cystitis (IC)
IC is a chronic disease that produces bladder and pelvic pain and pressure. Urinary urgency and frequency, pain during sex, and chronic pelvic pain are some of the IC symptoms. Although the exact cause of IC is unclear, issues with the bladder's protective covering may play a role.

8. Vulvodynia
The external genital region of women, or the vulva, can experience persistent pain and distress due to a disease called vulvodynia. Burning, itching, and rawness in the region are symptoms. Vulvodynia's root cause is unclear, but it could be caused by persistent inflammation, hormonal changes, or nerve damage.

9. Pelvic floor dysfunction
A disease known as pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when the muscles in the pelvic floor are weak or tense, leading to pelvic pain, fecal or urinary incontinence, and pain during sex. Pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause are the most common factors that increase the risk of pelvic floor problems.

10. Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. It may result in shoulder pain, vaginal bleeding, and unbearable pelvic pain. Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that needs to be treated right away to avoid possibly fatal outcomes.