Do you suffer from pelvic pain?

What is pelvic pain?

Pelvic pain in the lowest part of your abdomen, back and pelvis. This can be caused by several different conditions. The first step to finding relief is to realize that you are not alone. Believe it or not, up to 24% of women ages of 15–75 have reported experiencing pelvic pain. And women are not the only ones afflicted by this — men can suffer from pelvic pain as well. If you are one of these people living with pelvic pain or know someone who is, read on.

Symptoms

Depending on the source of the pain, it is often described as dull or sharp; mild, moderate, or severe; constant; or only present with certain activities, such as urination and intercourse. The pain can be located in the pelvic region and/or radiate into the back, hips and groin. Other symptoms that can accompany pelvic dysfunction are urinary leakage or constipation.

Causes

There is a long list of possible causes for pelvic pain. The pain could be referred from reproductive, digestive, or urinary organs. In addition, the pain can be from abnormalities in the muscles, nerves or ligaments of the pelvic floor.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the source of the pelvic pain. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider so they can identify the cause and direct the appropriate treatment. Depending on the source of the pain, you may need to be referred to a urologist, gynecologist, gastroenterologist or physiatrist. Some of the possible treatment options include physical therapy, medications, injections or surgical procedures.

Jessica Alm, D.O., is a physiatrist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation in Mankato, Minnesota.