Chronic pelvic pain is a condition that affects many men and women. While the cause of chronic pelvic pain is often unknown, there are several possible causes and symptoms.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of chronic pelvic pain can help you get the treatment you need. See your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms for more information on how to manage your condition.
Chronic pelvic pain is often caused by an underlying condition. However, the exact cause of chronic pelvic pain is often unknown.
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Endometriosis: This condition occurs when the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Endometriosis can cause pain and cramping during menstruation, intercourse, and bowel movements.
Fibroids: Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They can cause pain and cramping during menstruation, as well as pelvic pain and pressure.
Interstitial cystitis: This condition is a chronic inflammation of the bladder. It can cause pelvic pain, urinary frequency and urgency, and pain during intercourse.
Pelvic inflammatory disease: This condition is an infection of the reproductive organs. It can cause pain in the lower abdomen, fever, and irregular menstrual bleeding.
Irritable bowel syndrome: This condition is a chronic disorder of the digestive system. It can cause abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Chronic pelvic pain can also be caused by psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression. Stress can also trigger or worsen chronic pelvic pain. If you think your chronic pelvic pain may be caused by a psychological condition, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Chronic pelvic pain can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is a pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back. This pain may be constant or it may come and go.
Urinary frequency or urgency: You may need to urinate more often than usual or you may feel a strong urge to urinate.
Pain during intercourse: You may experience pain during sexual intercourse.
Painful bowel movements: You may have pain when you have a bowel movement.
Lower back pain: You may experience lower back pain.
Fatigue: You may feel tired or have low energy.
Depression: You may feel depressed or anxious.
If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan. Treatment for chronic pelvic pain often includes a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain.
Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy can help reduce pain by thinning the lining of the uterus.
Antidepressants: Antidepressants can help relieve pain and other symptoms of chronic pelvic pain.
Antibiotics: If your pelvic pain is caused by an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can also help relieve chronic pelvic pain.
Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce pain and other symptoms of chronic pelvic pain.
Stress management: Managing stress can help reduce pain and other symptoms of chronic pelvic pain.
Dietary changes: Eating a healthy diet and avoiding trigger foods can help reduce pain and other symptoms of chronic pelvic pain.
If you're experiencing chronic pelvic pain, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan.
In Conclusion:
Chronic pelvic pain is a condition that causes pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including endometriosis, fibroids, interstitial cystitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
There are many potential causes of chronic pelvic pain. If you're experiencing symptoms of chronic pelvic pain, talk to your doctor.