Pelvic Pain Symptoms:
Depending on the location of the pain, pelvic pain can be dull or sharp and can range from mild to severe. Pelvic pain refers to any pain experienced from the naval to the lower hip region. Chronic pelvic pain is pelvic pain lasting for more than six months. Some pelvic pain symptoms include:
- Constant, moderate to severe pain
- Intermittent (pelvic pain that comes and goes) pain that may or may not be associated with certain activities
- Dull aching sensation
- Sharp and cramping sensations that may travel
- Feeling of pressure or heaviness in the pelvic region
- Pain associated with intercourse
- Pain with bowel movements or straining
Pelvic Pain Causes:
Certain body functions and activities such as urination, sexual activity or menstruation can make pelvic pain more noticeable. Ligaments, muscles or other tissue problems in the pelvic area can also cause pain in the pelvic area. Pelvic pain is a complex condition caused by many factors including but not limited to gynecologic conditions, irritable bowel syndrome, interstitial cystitis, surgery, visceral organ (internal organ) pain, and pelvic pain may also be associated with other conditions such as inflamed spinal joints or pinched nerves.
Pelvic Pain Risk Factors:
Women are at greater risk for getting pelvic pain due to menstruation and sexual activity. In addition, psychological factors seem to play a role and increase risk for chronic pelvic pain. Depression, chronic anxiety and stress, history of sexual and/or physical abuse increase the risk for pelvic pain.
Pelvic Pain Testing:
Testing by a pelvic pain clinic doctor may be necessary if you suddenly develop severe pelvic pain. These would be based on your medical history and physical exam.
Pelvic Pain Treatment Options:
There are a number of pelvic pain management treatment options from your pelvic pain clinic doctor that can help relieve pelvic pain, which include:
- Epidural Steroid Injection
- Lumbar Sympathetic Block
- Ganglion Impar Block
- Sacroiliac Joint Injection
- Radiofrequency Neuro Ablation
- Trigger Point Injection
- Massage therapy
- CT Guided Nerve Blocks
- Hypogastric Nerve Blocks
- Medication Management
- Physical Therapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Pain Psychology (when appropriate)
