The simple answer to the question, “when should I see my gynecologist about pelvic pain?” is if the pelvic pain is new or different, see your gynecologist. Aside from typical cramps during your period, you shouldn’t be experiencing pain in your pelvic area. Any pain indicates something is awry in your body, so don’t ignore a pain in your reproductive area. Let’s find out why.
Is There A Pattern To Your Pain?
Most women with pelvic pain notice a pattern and you should explain those instances to Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology. Maybe you have pain after you eat, suggesting a gastrointestinal issue, when you pee, or during sexual intercourse. Some women can even experience pain after sitting at their computer for a long time.
Pelvic pain can be acute, which is a sudden and severe pain.
Pelvic pain can also be chronic which can include pain that comes and goes, fluctuates, or is constant. If it continues longer than 6 months and does not improve with treatment, it is chronic pelvic pain.
Finding out what is causing the issue is paramount to reducing or eliminating it. Letting it continue without addressing the problem can lead to more serious issues.
Some Common Causes Of Female Pelvic Pain
Female pelvic pain is symptomatic of a number of reproductive issues, inflammations, infections or other conditions.
The following are some common causes of female pelvic pain:
Endometriosis
This condition is quite common among women in their 30s and 40s. With endometriosis, the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, on fallopian tubes, ovaries, the uterus itself, and other pelvic tissues. It can lead to scars and painful adhesion.
Uterine Fibroids
This very common and mainly benign condition causes growths inside the uterus or on the uterine wall. Fibroids can cause pain especially during your period with a heavy flow and an extended cycle.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
PID is another common cause of pelvic pain. This is an infection due to bacteria that has traveled from the vagina or cervix into your other reproductive organs like the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. The initial cause is usually due to gonorrhea or chlamydia.
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs that develop on or in your ovaries. They develop during a woman’s child bearing years or after menopause. If the cysts are large enough, they can cause pressure and pain in the pelvic area which can move to the lower back.
When To Seek Medical Care
Any new or severe pain requires a visit to your gynecologist.
In addition, see your doctor if the pain is associated with the following:
- Unexpected bleeding
- Changes in the pain
- Fever, nausea, and vomiting
- Disrupts your daily activities
- Lasts 6 months or longer
- Gets worse while having sex
Contact Birmingham Obstetrics & Gynecology if you are concerned about any new or different pelvic pain.
To schedule an appointment, please call (205) 933-8334 or request an appointment online today.