Many factors can cause pelvic pain and discomfort, ranging from menstrual cramps and digestive problems to a reproductive health issue. Here’s what you need to know about pelvic pain and when to see a doctor.Depending on the cause, some types of pelvic pain are normal and fairly common. Many women experience mild to moderate menstrual cramps, but other factors can cause pelvic pain in women, too. But, ongoing (chronic) and severe pain can be a sign of a serious health issue, so you shouldn’t ignore it.
At Kennesaw Gynecology, Dr. Angel Paas and our staff offer a range of women’s health and aesthetic services at our office in Kennesaw, Georgia.
Here’s what you need to know about pelvic pain and when to see our team for an examination.
What causes pelvic pain?
Many factors can cause pelvic pain, most of which don’t pose serious health risks (but may still require treatment or medication). A few of the many common causes of pelvic pain include:
- Menstrual cramps
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometriosis
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- Appendicitis
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Ovarian cysts
- Sexually transmitted disease (STD)
There are many organs, supporting muscle tissues, and nerves in the pelvis, so there are many factors that can lead to pain or discomfort.
When should you visit our team for pelvic pain?
In general, you should typically schedule an appointment with our team if you’re experiencing pain that’s severe enough to interfere with your daily routine and quality of life. Other warning signs include if the pain persists or goes away and then returns, or if you’re experiencing other symptoms like bleeding, fever, or signs of infection.
For women, pelvic pain can also be a symptom of a gynecological issue and occur with other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or discharge and lower back pain. Let our team know if you notice any new or abnormal symptoms like bleeding between periods or bleeding that seems heavier than normal.
When is pelvic pain serious?
For pregnant women, pelvic pain is sometimes a symptom of an ectopic pregnancy, where the fetus develops in a fallopian tube instead of the uterus. It can also be a sign of a miscarriage.
In rare cases, pelvic pain can also be a sign of ovarian cancer.
Depending on the underlying cause, changes in diet or medication are sometimes prescribed to treat pelvic pain. If you’re worried about any new or persistent symptoms, schedule an appointment for an exam.
Healthy women between the ages of 21 and 65 should get a pelvic exam and PAP test every three years if there are no underlying health issues or other symptoms.
For more information about pelvic pain or other women’s health issues, contact us at (470) 308-3365, or request an appointment online, to schedule an appointment with Dr. Paas at our office in Kennesaw, Georgia.