Pelvic pain is a common concern, accounting for about 20% of OB/GYN visits a year. Despite its prevalence, many women dismiss or minimize their symptoms due to the misconception that pelvic pain is a normal part of life.
May is Pelvic Pain Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to shed some light on this common symptom.
At Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology in Winter Park, Oviedo, and Lake Mary, Florida, our women' s health experts are committed to providing exceptional, compassionate care and helping you understand why you should never ignore pelvic pain.
Pelvic pain is any discomfort you feel in the lower abdominal area — between your belly button and hips. This includes any aching, stabbing, or burning sensation. The pain can be acute, lasting only a few minutes or days, or chronic, lasting months or years.
The severity and frequency of your pain may not reflect the severity of the cause. Whether the pain is sharp and fleeting or dull and persistent, the pain you feel may indicate a serious health concern that requires medical attention.
While pelvic pain is common and rarely the sign of a life-threatening health condition, it can indicate a serious or complex condition.
Concerning causes of pelvic pain include:
Other causes include endometriosis, menstrual cramps, fibroids, inflammatory bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Even when not life-threatening, many of these conditions are chronic and can significantly affect your quality of life when left untreated.
If you have severe, sudden pelvic pain, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. These symptoms may indicate a medical emergency such as an ectopic pregnancy, ruptured cyst, or appendicitis.
If your pain lasts longer than three months, the cause may mean you have a chronic health issue that needs a medical evaluation. Although pelvic pain is often associated with reproductive health, it can originate from any organ in your lower abdomen.
A thorough evaluation that includes a review of symptoms, medical history, and a physical and pelvic exam may help confirm or rule out the cause. You may also need diagnostic tests such as bloodwork or imaging.
Some gynecological conditions require laparoscopic procedures to confirm a diagnosis, such as endometriosis.
Getting the right diagnosis is key to finding long-term relief for your pelvic pain.
Our approach to your treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms. Your plan may include:
In many cases, a combination of therapies are needed to effectively manage pelvic pain symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Pelvic Pain Awareness Month aims to bring attention to a symptom often dismissed or stigmatized. Tracking your symptoms, speaking openly during health visits, and asking questions can help you get the care and support you need.
While we do our best to provide answers, pelvic pain isn’t only a gynecological problem. Talking with other healthcare providers may be necessary to fully address your symptoms.
Raising awareness is key to changing the narrative. Pelvic pain isn’t a normal part of womanhood, and you shouldn’t ignore it.
For help with your pelvic pain, call Premier Obstetrics and Gynecology today or book an appointment online.
