Pelvic pain

Pelvic pain is a common medical condition that can affect both men and women. It is often associated with the reproductive, urinary and digestive systems, as well as the musculoskeletal system. Pelvic pain can be acute, meaning it comes on suddenly and lasts for a short period of time, or chronic, meaning it lasts for more than six months.

Causes

Pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Endometriosis: This is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pain and sometimes infertility.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): This is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by sexually transmitted bacteria.
• Interstitial cystitis: This is a chronic condition characterized by bladder pressure and pain.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): This is a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation.
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): This is an infection in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.
• Pelvic floor dysfunction: This is a group of disorders that affect the pelvic floor, which supports the bladder, intestines, and uterus.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of pelvic pain can be difficult due to the number of potential causes. Doctors may use a variety of tests, including:

• Physical examination: This may include a pelvic exam for women, a rectal exam, or an exam of the prostate in men.
• Lab tests: These may include a urine test, a pregnancy test, or a test for sexually transmitted infections.
• Imaging tests: These may include an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI to look for abnormalities in the pelvic organs.
• Laparoscopy: This is a surgical procedure that allows the doctor to view the pelvic organs.

Treatment

Treatment for pelvic pain depends on the cause, the intensity of the pain, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Medication: This may include pain relievers, hormone treatments, antibiotics, or antidepressants.
• Physical therapy: This may include exercises to relax tense pelvic floor muscles.
• Counseling: This can help manage the emotional impact of chronic pelvic pain.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the source of the pain, such as an ovarian cyst or endometriosis.

Pelvic pain Resources
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