Author｜Guobaorou
Source｜Medical World Obstetrics and Gynecology Channel
There are many causes of pelvic pain. This article summarizes 16 causes of pelvic pain. Let's take a look!
1
Ovulation pain
Ovulation pain is a normal physiological phenomenon. The pain usually occurs during ovulation. For example, in women with a 28-day menstrual cycle, the pain generally occurs about 14 days before the next menstrual period, hence the name ovulation pain. The pain is usually located in the lower abdomen on one side, and it is not severe, presenting as a dull ache, aching, or a feeling of heaviness or pressure. It does not cause serious harm.
2
Premenstrual syndrome and menstruation
Women experience menstruation every month. Under the influence of hormones, the uterine lining sheds and bleeds, resulting in menstruation. Many women experience menstrual cramps during this process. These cramps and pains in the lower abdomen or back usually last 1-3 days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be tried to alleviate the pain, or you can seek medical help promptly.
3
Ectopic pregnancy
The process by which a fertilized egg implants and develops outside the uterine cavity is called an ectopic pregnancy, with tubal ectopic pregnancies being the most common. Sexually active women experiencing missed periods, acute and severe abdominal pain, and vaginal bleeding should be alert to the possibility of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy!
4
sexually transmitted diseases
Pelvic pain can also be a sign of certain sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. Painful urination and other signs of urinary tract infection, along with abnormal vaginal discharge, are important clinical manifestations. Prompt medical attention is necessary, and the examination and treatment of your partner are also crucial!
5
pelvic inflammatory disease
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is the leading preventable cause of female infertility, and can cause permanent damage to the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge, and painful intercourse or urination. Seek medical attention promptly and follow your doctor's instructions regarding medication.
6
ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts are usually harmless and will disappear on their own. However, they can occasionally cause pelvic pain and bloating. If a cyst ruptures or twists, it can cause severe lower abdominal pain, requiring immediate emergency medical attention.
7
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are most common in women aged 30-40. They originate from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. The main clinical symptoms include lower back pain, increased menstrual flow, and increased vaginal discharge. Some patients may also experience severe vaginal bleeding and are prone to developing iron deficiency anemia of varying degrees.
8
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease with an incidence rate of 6%-10%. Clinical manifestations often include dysmenorrhea, infertility, pelvic masses, and pelvic pain. Although it is a benign disease, there is a risk of malignant transformation; the malignancy rate of ovarian endometriotic cysts is approximately 1%.
9
Urinary tract infection
Frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination are important clinical manifestations of urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs should not be underestimated, as ascending bacterial infections can spread to the kidneys, leading to serious consequences. Signs of kidney infection include fever, nausea, vomiting, and pain on one side of the lower back.
10
appendicitis
If you experience severe pain in the lower right abdomen, accompanied by vomiting and fever, you should consider the possibility of appendicitis.
Appendicitis may seem like a minor ailment, but if left untreated for a long time, it can easily lead to perforation and infection of the abdominal cavity, resulting in a variety of complications.
11
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
If you experience changes in your bowel habits, such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation, you should consider the possibility of IBS, also known as spastic colitis.
The etiology and pathogenesis of IBS are still unclear, but it is believed to be the result of the combined effects of multiple factors, including abnormal gastrointestinal motility, abnormal visceral sensation, abnormal brain-gut regulation, inflammation, and psychological factors.
Improving diet, regulating mood, and medication can all help.
12
Kidney stones
Most patients with kidney stones may not experience any symptoms. However, if the stone falls from the renal pelvis into the ureter and causes varying degrees of obstruction, various symptoms will often appear. The most typical symptoms are distending pain, dull pain, or colic in the lower back and abdomen (i.e., "renal colic"). Renal colic often causes patients unbearable pain and profuse sweating. The pain usually starts in the lower back or rib area and radiates down the ureter to the lower abdomen, vulva, and inner thigh. It may also be accompanied by abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, and hematuria.
13
Interstitial cystitis (IC)
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic, nonbacterial inflammatory condition of unknown cause, characterized by varying degrees of urinary frequency and urgency, often accompanied by varying degrees of pain in the bladder area, suprapubic region, or lower abdomen. It is more common in women in their 40s.
14
Pelvic organ prolapse
The incidence of pelvic organ prolapse increases with age. Although not a serious health problem, it can compress the vaginal walls, causing discomfort in the lower abdomen. Mild cases can be improved with Kegel exercises, while more severe cases may require surgical treatment.
15
Pelvic congestion syndrome
Abdominal pain can also be caused by obstruction of pelvic venous blood flow. Sitting or standing can worsen the condition. The characteristics of pelvic congestion syndrome are "three pains, two excesses, and one deficiency": pelvic pain, lower back pain, dyspareunia, excessive menstrual bleeding, excessive vaginal discharge, and few positive signs on gynecological examination.
16
Intrauterine adhesions
Intrauterine adhesions refer to damage to the basal layer of the endometrium caused by various factors, leading to partial or complete closure of the uterine cavity, ultimately resulting in abnormalities such as reduced menstrual flow, female infertility, and recurrent miscarriage. A history of uterine surgery and infection are important contributing factors to intrauterine adhesions. Some patients with severe intrauterine adhesions may experience symptoms such as pelvic pain, which should be taken seriously.
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