Pelvic pain occurs in the lower abdomen and pelvis. There are many potential causes of pelvic pain, including:

Menstrual cramps: Pelvic pain that occurs during menstruation is often caused by uterine contractions and is a common symptom of menstrual cramps.

Urinary tract infections: Infections of the urinary system, such as bladder infections and kidney infections, can cause pelvic pain.

Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the ovaries and may cause pelvic pain, particularly if they rupture or twist.

Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of the uterus, causing pain and other symptoms.

Pregnancy: Pelvic pain can occur during pregnancy due to changes in the pelvic region and may be a sign of complications.

Pelvic inflammatory disease: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause pelvic pain.

Other conditions: Other conditions, such as fibroids, ovarian cancer, and colorectal cancer, can also cause pelvic pain.

The treatment of pelvic pain often depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, may be effective in managing the symptoms of pelvic pain caused by menstrual cramps or other benign conditions. Pelvic floor physical therapy may also be employed as a tool to combat pelvic pain. In more severe cases, such as when an infection or other underlying condition is present, stronger medications or interventional approaches such as selective nerve root blocks, sympathetic blockade, or neuromodulation may be necessary.

It is important for individuals with pelvic pain to work closely with their physician to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific needs. This will likely involve a combination of different treatment options.

While pelvic pain can cause a significant impact to an individual’s quality of life, appropriate diagnosis and treatment can offer substantial relief and restore function.