Causes of Pelvic Pain
While gynecological factors, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids, cause pelvic pain, there are other reasons for the condition. Gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, also cause women extreme abdominal pain, as can urological conditions like interstitial cystitis, which affects the bladder. It is important to check your symptoms to see which specialist can help you.
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Endometriosis
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This painful condition occurs when tissue from the endometrium grows outside of the uterus. These tissue implants thicken and bleed during menstruation, but because it is occurring outside the normal realm of the uterus, the blood cannot flow outside of the vagina, causing build up in the pelvic area. This can trigger painful cysts and lesions on the pelvic region, including on the uterus, ovaries, the fallopian tubes and bladder. See the Resources section for a link.
Uterine Fibroids
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Many women often get these noncancerous growths during their childbearing years. They may have some pain in the pelvic region, or may feel that their stomach is full. Rarely is the pain severe unless the fibroid becomes deprived of nutrients and begins to die. That may trigger an acute pain and a fever.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Irritable bowel syndrome, the painful syndrome of constipation and diarrhea, can cause pelvic pain with the excess gas, bloating and cramping that is associated with it. Sufferers often experience cramping shortly after eating meals, causing discomfort and heaviness in the pelvic region. See the Resources section for a link.
Interstitial Cystitis
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Interstitial cystitis refers to the pelvic pain and discomfort in the bladder, related to urinary frequency and urgency, when an infection is not present. In severe cases, sufferers may have to urinate up to 60 times each day, and feel pain unless they relieve themselves immediately. They also may experience some pain in the pelvic area and in the vagina, as well as find sexual intercourse painful and uncomfortable. See the Resources section for a link.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
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Pelvic inflammatory disease refers to an infection of the female reproductive organs, which happens when sexually transmitted bacteria extends from the vagina to the uterus and other genital regions. It can cause pain to the lower pelvic regions, as well as painful intercourse. Sufferers may also experience heavier menstrual cycles and painful urination.
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