Chronic pelvic pain is a condition that is defined by pain in the area below the belly button and above the hips, known as the pelvic region. It can be caused by a variety of things, and it can have a serious impact on quality of life. If you are suffering from chronic pelvic pain that has lasted longer than six months, it is important to get the right treatment. However, it can be hard to diagnose the exact cause of pelvic pain since many of the responsible conditions have similar symptoms. Chronic pelvic pain can by caused by a number of conditions affecting the pelvic region, including:
- Adenomyosis
- Endometriosis
- Interstitial Cystitis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Ovarian cysts
- Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Urinary tract infection
- Uterine fibroids
Did You Know?
Pain associated with chronic pelvic pain can vary from mild to severe. It may also be constant or it may come and go. Additionally, it can be described as both a dull ache and/or a sharp pain. Any pain lasting longer than six months is considered to be chronic.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the symptoms of chronic pelvic pain?
The symptoms of chronic pelvic pain can vary from person to person depending on the underlying cause. However, there are some common symptoms that many people with this condition experience. These include:
- Chronic, persistent pain in the pelvic area
- Pain that gets worse with certain activities, such as sitting or walking
- Painful intercourse
- Painful urination or defecation
- Urinary frequency or urgency
- Constipation
- Bloating or nausea
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor. They will be able to help you determine the cause of your chronic pelvic pain and develop a treatment plan.
How is chronic pelvic pain diagnosed?
There is no one test that can diagnose chronic pelvic pain. Instead, doctors will use a variety of tests and procedures to rule out other conditions and make a diagnosis. These may include:
- A physical exam
- A pelvic exam
- Lab tests
- Imaging tests
- A biopsy
After ruling out other conditions, your doctor may diagnose you with chronic pelvic pain if you have persistent pain in the pelvic region that is not caused by another condition.
How is chronic pelvic pain treated?
The treatment of chronic pelvic pain will vary depending on the underlying cause. However, there are some general treatments that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:
- Pain medication
- Hormone therapy
- Physical therapy
- Psychological counseling
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Surgery
- Varicose vein treatment